Taming Wild Reindeer in the Artic
A Morning training session in Tromsø, Norway
sami culture is alive and well above the artic north
One of the most exciting shoots I’ve had in Europe, was also the coldest. On a brisk February afternoon, just outside of Tromsø, Norway – I followed along as star Sami reindeer herder, Tor Jonny Reitan, attempted to break in the newest member of his reindeer sled team. For me, a photographic opportunity like this, combining unique cultural subjects with heart-pumping action, was a dream come true.
Getting the powerful reindeer to cooperate and pull his sled was a worthy challenge for Tor Jonny, and one that I did not fully appreciate until I witnessed the spectacle first hand. Initially, he warmed up with a trusted animal, taking it by the lead and coaching it along almost effortlessly as he went through the motions, doing sled manoeuvers in the snow for my benefit. But from the moment he brought out the new fella – it was man vs. beast in a battle of wills.
The strength and stamina of this young male reindeer was incredible. It took Tor Jonny’s every effort to harness his energy and keep him under control.
