Summer in Finland.

I love all the Nordic countries, particularly their wildlife. This trip was very much focused on two species, black-throated divers and ospreys.

We had hoped to pick up a few other bits and bobs but the unseasonably warm spring had meant that all the owls had nested earlier than normal so in this case we were unlucky. We did manage a nice session with ladies slipper orchids, arguably the most spectacular European flower.

There is certainly something of the tropical about it so it always appears somewhat incongruous to be photographing it the boreal forest. Perhaps not the most productive trip I have ever run and the mozzies didn't help but by dint of hard work and perseverance we all managed some good images, coupled with good chat and bon-homie I certainly enjoyed it.