Prepare to be captivated by the stunning photography of Audun Rikardsen, a true master of his craft. His image, titled "The Feast," is a powerful portrayal of nature's beauty and the delicate balance between wildlife and human activities.
A Chaotic Symphony of Feathers and Fish
Imagine a polar night in northern Norway, where Audun witnessed a remarkable scene—a feeding frenzy around an Atlantic fishing vessel. Gulls, in a chaotic dance, attempted to catch fish trapped by nets, creating a mesmerizing display of nature's survival instincts.
But here's where it gets controversial: these gulls have learned to follow the sound of boats, leading them to a herring feast. Audun's photograph captures this unique behavior, shedding light on the ongoing conflict between seabirds and the fishing industry.
The Hidden Cost of Fishing
Each year, many birds drown in or around these purse seine nets. It's a tragic consequence that has sparked concern among various fisheries and researchers. They are trialing solutions, such as sinking the nets more quickly to reduce bird access.
Audun's work aims to bring attention to this issue, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.
A Lifelong Fascination
Audun's connection to the Arctic's landscape and wildlife runs deep. Growing up in a small fishing community in northern Norway, he developed a lifelong fascination with the region's unique ecosystem.
As a part-time photographer and full-time professor of biology at the UiT Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, Audun seamlessly integrates his passions. He uses photography to enhance his scientific fieldwork and shares his findings with the public, inspiring others to appreciate and protect our natural world.
Technical Details
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: 15-35mm f2.8 at 15mm
- Settings: 1/200 at f4.5, ISO 10000
- Lighting: Canon Speedlite 600EX II flash, LED torch
- Location: Kvænangen Fjord, Skjervøy, Norway
Explore More of Audun's Work
Audun's photography has earned him multiple accolades. You can view more of his award-winning images here:
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