Musk Ox & Autumn Photography Workshop
September 8 – 14, 2026
Musk Ox & Autumn Photography Workshop
September 8 – 14, 2026
7 Days / 6 Nights | Small group | Two instructors
Total trip price: $3,500
Reserve your place with a $500 deposit
Looking for a different kind of wildlife workshop?
Explore our Puffin & Arctic Wildlife Workshop
This workshop combines two of the strongest autumn photography experiences in southern Norway: the rich colors, rivers, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes of Rondane, and two guided days with musk ox in Dovrefjell during the rutting season.
It is designed for photographers who want both variety and depth during the same week. You will photograph wide landscapes, intimate nature scenes, and wildlife in changing autumn conditions, while receiving close guidance from two instructors in a small-group setting.
Quick facts
Dates: September 8-14, 2026
Duration: 7 days / 6 nights
Location: Rondane and Dovrefjell, Norway
Instructors: Terje Svendsen and Bjørn Joachimsen
Group size: Maximum 12 participants
Instructor ratio: Maximum 6 participants per instructor
Total trip price: $3,500
Deposit: $500 to reserve your place
Included: Workshop tuition, transport during the workshop, accommodation, breakfast, two guided musk ox days, and two follow-up online sessions
Not included: Travel to and from Norway, lunches, dinners, travel insurance, bike rental if needed, and personal expenses
Meeting point: Oslo Airport on September 8 at 12:00 PM
Return: Oslo Airport / Oslo city centre on September 14 at around 8:00 PM
Fitness level: Moderate. Suitable for most photographers with a reasonable level of mobility, but musk ox days involve walking on uneven terrain
Why join this workshop
This workshop is designed for photographers who want more than a single-subject trip. Across one week, you will work with both autumn landscapes and wildlife, giving you the chance to build a varied and cohesive portfolio rather than coming home with only one type of image.
With two instructors and a maximum of 12 participants, we keep the group small enough for real guidance in the field. Our goal is not only to bring you to strong locations, but to help you improve how you see, compose, and respond to changing light, weather, and wildlife opportunities.
Rondane gives us rivers, waterfalls, mountain forest, wide valleys, and intimate scenes in autumn color. Dovrefjell adds a completely different dimension, with guided musk ox photography during the rutting season, when the animals are at their most impressive and the storytelling potential is strongest.
This is a workshop for photographers who want variety, strong subjects, and personal teaching throughout the week.
What to expect
This workshop combines landscape photography in Rondane with guided wildlife photography in Dovrefjell, giving you both variety and a clear photographic focus throughout the week.
We work around the best available conditions each day. That means early starts and late finishes when the light is good, and a flexible middle part of the day for travel, scouting, rest, image review, or locations that suit softer light. The exact flow may change with weather and wildlife conditions, but the aim is always the same: to help you get the most out of each day in the field.
During the workshop, we help you work on:
composition in both grand landscapes and intimate scenes
photographing water and movement with confidence
seeing stronger details, patterns, and natural structure in the landscape
handling changing autumn light and weather
field technique and camera settings
wildlife awareness, behavior, safety, and subject placement in the frame
building a stronger and more consistent set of images from each session
The goal is not only that you come home with strong photographs, but that you leave with better field habits, more confidence, and a clearer sense of how to approach both landscape and wildlife photography.
Is this workshop right for you?
This workshop is suitable for enthusiastic beginners, intermediate photographers, and advanced photographers who want personal guidance in a small-group setting.
You do not need to be a specialist in wildlife photography to join. What matters most is that you enjoy being outdoors, want to improve your photography, and like the idea of combining landscapes and wildlife during the same trip.
A reasonable level of fitness is important. The musk ox days involve walking on uneven terrain, sometimes uphill and downhill, while carrying your own camera equipment. Expect approximately 5 to 12 km of walking during those days, depending on conditions and where the animals are located.
If you enjoy autumn color, mountain landscapes, and wildlife, and want a workshop with both structure and flexibility, this trip is likely a very good fit.
A typical day rhythm
Our days are planned around light, weather, and photographic opportunities.
In Rondane, we often head out early or stay late when conditions look promising, and use the middle of the day flexibly for travel, rest, image review, scouting, or locations that work well in softer light. Some days are longer in the field, especially when the weather is changing in our favor.
In Dovrefjell, the rhythm is shaped more by the musk ox and by safe, ethical field practice. These days involve longer stretches outdoors and more walking, but they also give us the best chance to photograph the animals well in their environment.
Some days will be demanding and full. Others will be more relaxed. We adapt the flow of the workshop to make the most of conditions while keeping the overall experience enjoyable and manageable.
Day-to-day program
(Draft itinerary. Exact locations and order may change based on weather, road conditions, and forecasts. During the daylight window we’ll stay out photographing as long as the light is up, with breaks as needed to warm up and reset.)
Day 1 (September 8):
Arrival, transfer to Rondane, and welcome briefing
Pick-up and transfer to the Rondane area.
Check-in and practical introduction to the week
Short optional session on gear, settings, and field approach for landscapes and wildlife
Day 2 (September 9):
Waterfalls and rivers in Rondane
We begin the workshop with flowing water, autumn color, and strong compositional opportunities in the Rondane area.
Waterfall and river photography around Mysusæter and Ulafossen
Focus on shutter speed control, filters, depth, and composition
Optional evening review session
Day 3 (September 10):
along the Ula River
This day is about variety and learning to see more deeply within the landscape.
Wide scenes, details, textures, and intimate landscapes along the river
Focus on simplifying compositions and finding stronger structure
Optional evening image review
Day 4 (September 11):
Rondvassbu and Jutulhogget
A more varied day that combines a classic Rondane landscape experience with a dramatic gorge environment.
Cycle or travel toward Rondvassbu depending on logistics
Landscape storytelling in the mountain environment
Later session in the Jutulhogget area
Optional evening discussion
Day 5 (September 12):
Final Rondane session and transfer to Oppdal
Final morning or daytime session in Rondane
Transfer to Oppdal
Evening briefing for the musk ox days, including safety, ethics, and shooting approach
Day 6 (September 13):
Guided musk ox photography in Dovrefjell
This is one of the key highlights of the week.
Full day in Dovrefjell with a local guide
Focus on photographing musk ox in the landscape during the rutting season
Emphasis on behavior, safety, fieldcraft, and image choices
Walking on uneven terrain should be expected
Day 7 (September 14):
Second musk ox session and return
Morning session for a final chance with the musk ox
Wrap-up and summary of key lessons from the week
Transfer back toward Oslo with afternoon/evening drop-off
Ambitions & Goals
This workshop is about helping you grow as a photographer while creating a strong set of autumn images from two very different mountain environments in Norway.
We want you to return home with photographs you are genuinely proud of, but also with something more lasting: better visual awareness, stronger field technique, and more confidence in how you approach both landscapes and wildlife.
Our aim is to give you personal guidance throughout the week and create an environment where you can enjoy the trip, work seriously on your photography, and come away with a tighter and more meaningful portfolio.
Musk Ox & Autumn
Photography Workshop
September 8– 14, 2026
Tickets: $3,500 per person
Start: September 8 at 12:00 PM
End: September 14 at around 8:00 PM
This workshop gives you seven days of focused photography across Rondane and Dovrefjell, with two instructors, a small group, and a program designed around the best available autumn conditions.
Included in the workshop
7 days / 6 nights of on-location photography training
two instructors working closely with the group throughout the workshop
maximum 12 participants
transport during the workshop in vans
accommodation at Rondane Høyfjellshotell and Oppdal Turisthotell
breakfast each day
two guided musk ox photography days in Dovrefjell
a structured program built around light, conditions, and wildlife opportunities
two follow-up online sessions after the workshop
access to a private WhatsApp group before departure for updates and practical information
Not included
travel to and from Norway
lunches and dinners
travel insurance
bike rental if needed
personal expenses
Price
Total trip price: $3,500 per person
Deposit: $500 to reserve your place
Booking information
Your place is confirmed once your deposit has been paid. After booking, you will receive practical information about the workshop, travel planning, recommended gear, and the next steps before departure.
If you have questions before booking, feel free to get in touch.
Meet the Instructors
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Bjørn is a versatile photographer with over 20 years of professional experience across genres including people, nature, and architecture. He is one of Norway’s most active photography instructors, teaching nationwide and internationally. His collaborations include Sandra Bartocha, Anna Ulmestrand, Otto von Münchow, and David Beckstead (USA).
Portfolio: joachimsenphotography.com
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Terje is a full-time Norwegian photographer specializing in landscapes and cityscapes. He leads workshops in Norway, Paris, Italy, and the Dolomites. His work is showcased through exhibitions and available as fine art prints.
Portfolio: terjephotography.com
FAQs
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Seven days / six nights of photography workshop guiding with both instructors
Pick-up in Oslo at the start of the workshop
Transport in our vans throughout the workshop
Accommodation during the workshop
Breakfast each day
Two full days of guided musk ox photography in Dovrefjell during the rutting season
A structured workshop plan with daily field sessions and flexibility based on weather, light, and wildlife conditions
Hands-on guidance in the field, including composition, technique, exposure, filters, and how to work a scene
Optional image reviews and Lightroom Classic tips on selected evenings
Practical support before the trip, including gear advice, planning tips, and what to expect in the autumn mountains
Access to a private WhatsApp group before departure for updates, gear advice, and practical information
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Flights or other travel to and from Oslo
Lunches and dinners
Personal travel insurance
Alcohol, snacks, and personal expenses
Bike rental, if needed for the Rondvassbu day
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We stay in two hotels to match the flow of the program:
Dovreskogen Gjestegård (Sep 8–12)
Dombås Hotel (Sep 12–14)
Accommodation is included. Room type (single/shared) can be handled the same way as your other workshops: if you’re traveling with a partner and want to share, that’s usually possible — just let us know early so we can plan correctly. We confirm room preferences and practical details after booking.
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We meet in Oslo on the first day, with two pick-up options:
Oslo Airport (Gardermoen / OSL) at around 3:00 PM
Oslo city centre at around 2:00 PM (by prior arrangement)
The workshop finishes on the last day with a transfer back to Oslo. We’ll drop you off at OSL and/or Oslo city centre, aiming to arrive at approximately 8:00 PM (depending on traffic and conditions).
After you register, you’ll receive a practical info sheet with meeting point details and suggested flight times.
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For the Rondane landscape days, expect short to moderate walks from parking areas and along rivers/waterfalls (uneven ground is common).
For the musk ox days, participants should be in good physical condition and able to walk while carrying their own equipment. Expect:
2–5 hours of walking per day
Some uphill and downhill sections (walked at a calm, steady pace)
Around 5-12 km per day on average
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We keep the days simple: we’re out photographing as much as possible and adapt continuously to light, weather, and opportunities. Instead of splitting the day into separate sessions, we typically stay in the field, move between nearby locations when it makes sense, and keep shooting as conditions change.
A typical day may include:
An early start when the light is best
Long, continuous time in the field (waterfalls, rivers, forest, or mountain landscapes depending on conditions)
Location changes during the day to follow the best light and weather (rather than returning for a “midday break”)
Dinner together as a group (we’ll organize it; paid individually)
Optional short review/edit session on selected evenings
On the musk ox days, the day is built around the guided hike and time in the habitat — expect several hours outdoors with a calm, steady pace and plenty of time to work the scenes safely.
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Transport during the workshop is included. We pick up participants in Oslo at the start of the trip and travel together in our vans throughout the workshop. This allows the group to move smoothly between locations without needing separate cars. After booking, you will receive full practical details about pickup, timing, and the workshop plan, and we use a private WhatsApp group before departure for updates and final coordination.
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Autumn mountain weather changes fast — and we plan for it. If conditions shift, we adapt by changing locations and focusing on what works best in the moment: waterfalls and rivers in moody light, forest and intimate scenes in wind, sheltered compositions when conditions are harsh, and using dramatic skies when they show up.
You’ll still get strong shooting opportunities — and often the “bad weather” days become the most atmospheric images.
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This workshop works well for enthusiastic beginners through advanced photographers. It helps if you’re comfortable with basic camera controls (aperture, shutter speed, ISO). If you’re newer, we’ll make sure you get solid foundations (sharpness, exposure, tripod technique). If you’re experienced, we’ll push composition refinement, storytelling, and building a cohesive set of images (especially on the musk ox days).
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Yes — we’re happy for you to bring a plus one. Since spaces are limited, they’ll need to register and pay the full workshop price. If you choose to share a room, we’ll apply a discount for shared accommodation.
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When you register, a $500 deposit will be charged to secure your spot.
The remaining balance will be invoiced about two months before the workshop begins.
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Recommended kit for autumn landscapes + musk ox:
Camera (DSLR or mirrorless)
Wide-angle lens (landscapes, waterfalls, and environmental wildlife scenes)
Standard zoom (flexibility)
Telephoto lens for musk ox (strongly recommended)
Sturdy tripod (very useful for waterfalls and low light)
Extra batteries + charger
Plenty of memory cards
Lens cloths (spray and mist happen around waterfalls)
Backpack rain cover / camera rain cover (useful)
Optional: polarizer (highly recommended), ND filter for long exposures, remote release
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Pack for changeable autumn mountain conditions and time outdoors:
Layering system (base + insulation + shell)
Waterproof/windproof outer layers
Warm hat and gloves
Hiking boots with good grip (uneven ground and wet areas near water)
Extra socks
Small daypack for layers, water, and snacks
Optional but useful: trekking poles (helpful on longer walking days), gaiters, and a thermos.
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Wildlife is never guaranteed. Dovrefjell gives some of the best chances in Norway, and we plan two dedicated guided musk ox days to maximize our odds. When the animals are present, rutting season behavior can create intense and memorable photo opportunities — but we always prioritize safety and ethical distance.
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If you have more questions regarding the workshop, don’t hesitate to contact us at: terje@terjephotography.com
Musk Ox & Autumn Photography Workshop
Musk Ox & Autumn Photography Workshop
Musk Ox & Autumn Photography Workshop
September 8 – 14, 2026 (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Tickets: $ 3,500 per person
Join us for a week of autumn landscapes and musk ox photography in Norway
If this workshop speaks to you, we’d love to have you with us in Rondane and Dovrefjell next September.
More workshops
If Musk Ox and Rondane is on your list, you might also like these upcoming workshops:
Lofoten Northern Lights and Polar Night Workshop- Northern lights, polar light and coastal landscapes
Northern Norway Landscape Photography Workshop– Big landscapes, coastlines, and wild weather
Dolomites Photography Workshop (Italy – October) – Autumn colour, quieter trails, and dramatic light
Venice Photography Workshop– Architecture, canals, reflections, and night photography
Florence & Cinque Terre Photography Workshop – Cityscapes, coastline villages, and golden-hour views
Paris Photography Workshop – Street, architecture, and blue-hour city scenes