This is the story about my photohides

It all started in 2016 when I moved into a farmhouse from the early 1900s outside Mantorp, Östergötland. In addition to the farmhouse, I also acquired my own land where I could start my projects with photo hides. Initially, the badgers were the most interesting, and I began building my first hide, which is now the main hide for badgers, birds of prey, and some forest birds. I have spent many days and nights in this hide photographing badgers, as well as birds of prey and forest birds.

My photo hides have been continuously improved and still are to provide the best opportunities for both fantastic images and experiences of the fauna that the forest has to offer. New projects are always underway, and right now I am focusing on finding ways to attract tawny owls and making the pine martens more regularly present at the hides. Currently, I have two active hides and a stationary tent hide for photographing, among other things, crested tits. In addition to these, there are more tent hides scattered throughout the forest that I am exploring for future photographic adventures.

The business of renting out my photo hides started in 2024, and I see a bright future ahead with many exciting encounters and opportunities to capture photographs of the forest’s inhabitants.

About me as a nature photographer

I am Niklas Virsén, a passionate and dedicated nature photographer based in Sweden. With a focus on ecotourism, I embark on photo expeditions around the world to discover the most incredible wildlife and magical landscapes. I then transform these expeditions into engaging and captivating stories.

As a member of the esteemed Swedish Nature Photographers (/N), I am committed to promoting the conservation of nature reserves, national parks, and nature in general, both in Sweden and globally. Through my membership, I also ensure the ambition to present honest images and videos from nature, where truth and storytelling in the image are of utmost priority. Nature Photographers /N: www.naturfotograferna.se

My photography has received international recognition, with awards and prizes for my images in well-known photo competitions across Europe. In addition to capturing images and creating engaging stories, I also greatly enjoy sharing my expertise with fellow photography enthusiasts. Through photo tours and workshops, both in Sweden and around the world, I offer in-depth knowledge of nature photography while showcasing the best locations to capture the beauty of nature. Learn more about this through my company, Fröstad Naturfoto: www.frostadnaturfoto.se.

Some of my gear:

• Sony A7RIV
• Sony A7RII
• Sony 400 2,8 GM
• Sony 135 1,8 GM
• Sony 90 mm 2,8 Macro,
• Sony 24 mm 1,4 GM
• Uniqball Tripods & ballheads,
• DJI Mavic Mini-series

Book: Eye to Eye – Encounters for Biodiversity

How can we, as humans, move towards a greater understanding, respect, and empathy for the world’s animals and nature? As a reader, you will join nature photographer Niklas Virsén in his encounters with animals and birds across the globe. Through his stories, you will experience intense meetings with, among others, mountain gorillas, cheetahs, musk oxen, and brown bears. Niklas believes that such encounters are crucial for the future conservation of various species and natural habitats.

“In the modern world, something has been lost. A whole symbolic world where animals were portrayed not just as living organisms, but as beings with a soul.”

Niklas Virsén works as a nature photographer and is deeply engaged in nature photography and ecotourism. On his expeditions around the world, he seeks out the most fascinating animals, birds, and landscapes. He then transforms these adventures into engaging, informative, and captivating stories. Niklas is a member of the Swedish association Nature Photographers /N and is a popular speaker and tour guide. As an ambassador for species conservation, Niklas strives to document fragile nature in vulnerable habitats as well as the animals and birds that inhabit these ecosystems. Through this work, he highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats and promoting species conservation for future generations.

If you have any questions, you can contact Photo Hides Sweden via the form. You can also reach me on Facebook Messenger.