50 DAYS PHOTO EXPEDITION 2:4 - White wolves on Ellesmere Island, Canada
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.พ. 2025
- EXPEDITION ELLESMERE SERIES
In this episode we reach the mysterious Axel Heiberg Island and our guide Terry spots the most important cairn of them all and we are all excited to see if there is a letter inside...
Now the focus of the expedition is 100 percent on finding the Arctic wolf.
We reach the cabin and after a late winter storm, we start our daily ski tours to scout the area for wildlife. Everything seems empty but after getting a glimpse of the wolf I decide to set up my photo blind and to stay there until I get a photo of this white ghost.
Video about the equipment for the expedition: • 2 MONTH PHOTOGRAPHY EX...
Video about testing the equipment in Norway: • 4 DAY SOLO WINTER CAMP...
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It started as a dream:
The idea about going on an expedition to Ellesmere Island was born a late evening where my good friend Anders Bilgram and I were looking at maps, talking about adventures and having a snaps. The next day I wrote him that I was going to Ellesmere Island to photograph the white Arctic wolf and the following day he asked if we should go together, because he had some historical interest in that area. That was basically how it all started. We had a year and a half to plan and prepare the expedition and there was a lot to do. Everything from permissions and researching to physical training, selection and testing of gear and equipment. We would be 5 weeks in the wild without any options for supplies so we could not afford anything to fail out there. Most of our clothes was from Klättermusen simply because I have a lot of great experience with the models I have used on previous trips and expeditions.
We arrived to Grise Fiord late in March and the temperatures were not as bad as we expected. After a week of preparations, we took off and headed north on snowmobiles together with 3 local outfitters. The original plan was to get dropped off on the south point of Axel Heiberg Island and then walk home from there - these plans changed a lot. We quickly discovered that this land seemed almost desolated. I had expected a lot of reindeer, hares, foxes, and muskoxen but after driving for 3 days we had seen nothing. This was not a very good beginning at all.
The plan changed:
We decided to cover a huge area on snow mobiles rather than a very limited area with skies and pulk. We had to find the muskoxen or the reindeer because this would be where the wolves would also be. We talked to the local hunters who suggested to make a combination of driving, staying in a hunter’s cabin and going on skies so that was what we did.
Frostbites, frustrations, and polar bears:
The temperatures up here were much colder than in Grise fiord and one night we had minus 42 Celsius. Wrapped in down clothes it was not a huge problem as long as we kept moving. For the camera equipment is was a huge challenge though since it simply stopped working. The face was another problem and we all got a few frost bites - me on my nose. Besides the cold temperatures, we also had to deal with other challenges such as polar bears entering the camp. One evening when we were having dinner in the tent, we suddenly heard something outside - very very close to the tent. I jumped out without my shoes and a young polar bear was trying to drag out supplies away. I quickly scared him away with the flare gun, but we all slept a bit light after that experience.
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A big thanks to all the people who have supported us before, under and after this expedition:
Family and friends for your patience and for taking care of everything in the 10 weeks we were away from home.
Terry, Olaph and Imushi - our awesome guides from Ausuittuq Adventures: www.ausuittuqa...
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Enjoy watching.
See you out there...
Ahhhhhhhh “stay tuned for part 3” you’re killing me Morten......❤️
;)
Of all the times to cut it. I felt gutted 😉
Kerry Williams tell me about it......😫😜
Great pictures keep up the great work that you do
@@MortenHilmer I got goose bumps when you shared the footage of the wolf and it looked back at you (us). Absolutely beautiful and inspirational Morten. Have a great day and be safe out there!
I almost cried when you saw the wolf, I can't even begin to imagine the sense of awe and wonder you felt on that moment. This is truly one of the best moments you could share with us.
Same here, Fabrizio. Still takes my breath away when I go back & watch it. Great work Morten, so fascinating!
Perfect ending to a Sunday night! I am gonna make a nice cup of coffee and watch a beautiful film of Morten Hilmer.
Sounds awesome . I am going to make a cup myself - I hope you like the story
My tears totally fell from my eyes watching this wonderful video of "expedition". Really really love how Morten creates his videos.
Who are those14 stupids that pressed dislike?
Great work Morten, can't wait to see part 3 !!! Greetings from Italy :)
Hello brother Morten, been a long time that i don't comment or watch your videos honestly, i was facing many stations in my life , you probably don't remember me , but i told u almost 2 years, that i was depressed, and ur vids always made me smile and move one , i took my photography very seriously, and i start to shot more , i even sold 30 frames, this made me so proud, then i start to get calls to work in events , thank you so much Morten for benign the person you are , now I'm in the road to be a professional photographer, my goal is to be as you.
I cannot describe the feelings your videos and in particular this video makes me feel. You inspire me and through sharing your work and your experiences you allow others to share in your passion. It was almost two years ago when I first started watching your videos, I was only 15 years old, it was from those videos that I decided to make the leap and spend 2 years of my summer job earnings on upgrading from a cannon rebel to a Nikon DSLR. From then I have been shooting nonstop, taking your wisdom and lessons to heart and using it to perfect my craft. I stroll the wilderness and forests looking for wildlife sometimes 5 days a week, after school I run to the forest with my camera instead of running to video games or to my television. I have now been making a fair bit of money through my Photos by selling prints. I have dreams of becoming a professional photographer and I dream of telling the story of the primordial and ancient dance between wolf and muskoxen. This is all because of you Morten. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. See you out there.
- Tony Morrison
So many people don’t understand how much time and research goes into taking maybe one good shot of a particular bird or animal. Thank-you for taking us to the extreme of this by spending many days in a tent with zero visibility for only a few captures and a short video!
When a chance encounter enables the two species to acknowledge each other, and find a common bond. This must be an incredible experience. Thank you Morten.
Thank you so much:)
The best part of these videos is seeing Anders' face light up when he finds a message. Absolutely beautiful.
Morten, all these episodes should be on the cinemas!
if a Television bought these episodes from you, they will do a great investment, i bet. it's far better than any adventure show i have watched
Thank you Morten, from the deep of my hearth. It was fantastic to be out there with you.
You may never see this comment because there are already almost 400 others, but I have to say it anyway... This was such an incredible movie! Excellent quality production, so moving and inspiring, but then, this is a Morten Hilmer production! Those photographs are priceless, the wolf in its own way was just as intrigued to notice you and watch you as you were to watch the wolf. There is just something so special about connecting with wildlife that you observe and immense satisfaction from gaining a photograph as well. Well done, Morten!
Thank you and thank you, Morten Hilmer. Seeing that wolf was almost real for me, and I'm not shy to say I did cry. Your work feeds my soul. Thank you and thank you.
Men, give this man a salute, he has made history and its still going.
This is visual poetry. You bring such serene excitement to this barren place. I watch your videos silently when everyone has gone to bed in the house. It is there that I can sit with silent anticipation of what is around the next fjord and adventure lies behind that mountain.
Thank you for all of this.
Not often in your life can you say... what an adventure. Thank you for bringing us Morten.
The suspense.... Great to see dreams come to reality. Arctic hare beautiful. Cannot wait to see the ghost of the Arctic...
Hi Morten thanks for sharing.Thankyou for the effort that you put in, for us to have a share of your view .I like your "NEVER GIVE UP ATTIDUDE" All the best to you .
It is so kind of you Sabel and such an encouraging compliment means a lot to me.
With the notice of Part 2, I made myself a coffee, a "Mortenatte", and watched over Sunday morning breakfast. Beautiful.
WOW Morten, this is pure Sir David Attenborough class of movie... Absolutely amazing!
I can’t wait for part three..
Morten, did you have any fear staying in the tent for so long, knowing polar bears could be in the area?
So many things I enjoy about your video...too many to list here...but one thing that stands out is your enthusiasm and pure enjoyment of your experiences---it's contagious. You are so much more than a photographer but clearly that's the aspect of your journeys that I'm most keen to learn from. Like it's said in many comments below, I too can't wait for the next episode!
Ive actually lost count of how many truly emotional components are in this vlog, simply astounding.
Thank you Morten and the expedition team.
It is always a special experience to watch videos of Morten, truely inspirational.
Morten, your videos are so precious. There's no way I can express my gratitude over a comment, but still thank you very much.
There is advantage finding your channel this late. I can binge watch and enjoy your masterpiece and craft all at once. Inspiring, beautiful.
I also felt goosebumps when you saw the white wolf! Thanks for sharing...
Just could saw one word for you "AWESOME" . Sitting in a tent with surroundings full of ice, chances of attack by a polar bear ,wolf (he may attack) with nobody near you just for a sake of glimpse (photo) of the majestic ghost. Man you are just Awesome. Thanks for making my night....... :) EAGERLY waiting for part 3
Love from India, you are a great inspiration for me. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. You are amazing.👏👏👏👏
Noooooooo. Now we need to wait another 2 weeks to see the magic.. All the way from South Africa we say hallo. Absolutely stunning video and work SIR.
I have never seen some one like you and I won't forget you in my life.😀☺️👍👏✌️
Morten, You are an inspiration. Your care for wildlife, peaceful spirit, and quality of work, is a true gift to all of us. I look forward to follow all your adventures. God Speed!
Just fantastic! And a cliffhanger ending. The wolf may have been far away but the images were still stunning and gave a real sense of the animal in its landscape.
Bacano como puede ir a lugares donde casi nadie a ido y estar en la paz y la tranquilidad con el paisaje y los animales
Brilliant! now time to make a cup of tea and get TH-cam tuned in on the TV!! Perfect Sunday evening viewing!
Morten, I have been a huge fan of your work and videos for a year or so now and this series is simply storytelling and cinematic genius!
This right here is some of the best documentation of raw wildlife photography on TH-cam
Anche nel luogo più rude del pianeta, riesci a scattare fotografie di una delicatezza incredibile! Grazie per farci vivere queste emozioni e per fare ciò che molti di noi nel profondo sognano!
Are you kidding me? Stay tuned for a part 3 ??? This is like to watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy years ago. I want to see it right now. Now seriously: what an amazing story. Well done Morten. Well done
Amazing! The Golden Globe movie awards are on tonight but I can guarantee you nothing there can match what I just watched here. 2 thumbs up!!
Oh, Morten that was... Absolutely gorgeous.
I watched the part of the wolf with teary-eyed, what a remarkable moment and experience. I alway felt an extraordinary attraction for the arctic expedition, I remember when I was fifteen and bought - in the national geographic's store in Madrid- a poster with the photography of the Fram ship, stuck in the ice with the windmill outspread and since then I alway look at it and always bring back the same boyish illusion. And it's that same illusion, of freedom, that I have when watching these videos.
I apologize for my poor and bad English and, as always, thank you for sharing this wonderful storys and moments with us.
7.53 I hope everyone appreciates the effort it took to get this shot. Climbing up a mountainside in extreme conditions to get this wide shot when no one told you to do it but it was important for the story - epic. As always, well done. Remarkable storytelling.
OMG I need part 3.... Seriously Morten I can't tell you how happy I am that you saw the White Wolf. I was worried you might not have seen it. Seeing how hard you work to achieving your goals gives me so much inspiration for my own wildlife photography. With your passion and talent, you are a rare gem my friend. Can't wait for the next episode!
Better than any TV documentary ...BRAVO!
Thank you for bringing us along on this amazing adventure!
That's a Hollywood level cliff hanger. Brilliant video. So exciting and beautiful. Truly inspiring. Tak for gaven.
The short footage you took of the wolf was breathtaking!!!!!!!!! The music added to the awesome feeling as well.
Tears of joy for you Morten!
You are such a good storyteller, Morten. I don´t get if how you can tell such a great story without knowing before what´s gonna happen. This has more story to it than any "Blockbuster" film and so much more feeling. With your passion and determination you are such a great inspiration, I really, really like your personality. All the best wishes!
Woooow. Awesome Morten. very very difficult and tiring work. I can't imagine how you tired. I'm tired watching. "Stay tuned for part 3” ??? What do you say! Oh my God. You're crazy. :)))) Waiting Impatiently. Good Luck man.
Morton, you are and amazing adverturer. Your joy oof God's creation is infectious.
Woow! That moment when the White Ghost appears for the first time gave me chills! Great expedition!
A truly stunning video Morten, fantastic to see the White Wolf, even at a distance. Eagerly awaiting the next installment !!
Morten, what an adventure. Congratulations. Can’t wait for Part 3.
You are out of this world, there you were in your own world, the suspense and passion tense. Captivating world you are sharing with us, just stunningly amazing.
Fablous video sir ...
That atmosphere very superb 👌👌 & have a succesfull jorney ahead...
Thank you so much for the video Morton. I am sitting here looking threw my calendar as I watch this epic adventure. Thank you.
Your commitment to get the shot you want is unbelievable and truly inspiring. So glad I stumbled across your channel. Onto episode three...
Ahhh!! What a great 42:55 mins of video which cut me off from the hustle and chaos of life...
Insanely breathtaking film Morten...The wolf scene and pictures gave me chills of excitement and suspense! Can not wait for the next part!
Thanks a lot . I am looking forward to sharing part 3 with you
Så flott film, Nydelige bilder satt sammen med vakker musikk og en god historie fortalt på behagelig vis. Flott nok en gang Morten. Så enormt mye arbeid som ligger bak dette. Herlige dyrebilder som er morsomt å få følge med på. Huff hvilket slit i isende kulde. jeg gleder meg masse til fortsettelsen. Tusen takk for titten:) Klem fra meg:)
I'm already looking forward to the third part.
So glad you finally saw an arctic wolf. Thank you for taking us along on your journey. It's always a joy watching your videos. Looking forward to part 3 👍🏻
What?! I thought I remembered you saying a while back that you were disappointed in the trip and didn't to see the wolf! That was remarkable! My jaw fell open when you showed the video, simply remarkable. You must have been overwhelmed when you saw the wolf - I was. So happy for you. Congratulations. What a wonderful series. Can't wait for part 3.
I've said it before 'your filming / editing is documentary worthy. Thank you for sharing.
I had a lump in my throat when the Wolf appeared . . . Amazing shots, then, 'wait for part three' . . . noooo I need my next fix of the expedition 😁😁😁😁 absolutely stunning Morten.
Спасибо за прекрасный фильм 😁 растрогал аж до слёз😂 удачи и здоровья 😎😎😎
Watching the Arctic Hare dig with it's front paws made me laugh out loud with joy! I know what those moments mean, and I am so happy you were able to capture it and feel those feelings at the moment. And the wolf. What a moment. I get shivers when I cross the paths of wolves around here, and have yet to see them. Looking forward to part 3.
Awesome Morten, no one does it better. Can't wait for part 3!!
Yay, can't wait to watch Morten, you are one I constantly watch for, a true inspiration. Happy New Year! :)
Happy new year Sam and thanks a lot for your nice compliment. I hope you like the story:)
@@MortenHilmer Fantastic!! OMG, I am so so so very happy for you. What an experience! I will be sure to watch again.. with coffee ;) Goodnight!
Got goosebumps watching part 2 .... can't wait for part 3. Excellent!
Brilliant, just brilliant. What a cliffhanger. Cant wait for part 3👍
When you first saw the wolf on the mountain crag, you described it as "an unforgettable moment". It seems your whole expedition could be described that way!
The video and still shots of the wolf are fantastic. Even the hair on MY arms raised!
Thank you so much, Morten, for sharing this incredible adventure!
I know you didnt have your coffee in that red tent, but I drank 2 cups watching this. One was for you my friend! Absolutely beautiful video footage of that White Wolf!!!!! Can't wait for Part 3.
Was so excited for this! What an amazing experience. And great storytelling, Morten! 😀
Thanks a lot Stefano
A beautiful story, a great adventure. I'm waiting for part 3. Best regards from Poland, Marius
That was fantastic I am so pleased you got to see the white wolf what an experience look out nat-geo
Nádherné video super hezká arktická příroda 🌊🌞🌞🌞👍👍👍❤️
Wauw, the wolf in the white out, incredible. More beautiful than with nice weather.
Love to see how you work and tell us what you do. Especially in cold conditions 🙂
I am waiting for 3rd part 😃
I think it is more adventurous and we are lucky to see the white ghost again 😍
So happy you find the wolf! Dream came true!
Outstanding.....I could feel your excitement and mine to. Well done Morten.
Thanks for the birthday present Morten! It's like you knew 😁🎂😁
Oh my gosh I have just finished watching the video and those last shots must surely be the best you have ever taken! They are amazing!!! You must be SO pleased!
Oh Happy Birthday Joe - I hope you will have a great day:)
@@MortenHilmer Nothing special I am afraid :( The joys of a January birthday! So this has made things better for me :)
So exciting, as allways. So much looking forward to part 3.
Thank you Morten for these last 43 fantastic minutes.
You make the most majestic adventure VLOGs Morten. I thoroughly enjoy them.
Yes, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up when you showed us the video "Beautiful White Wolf"! And then the Cliff Hanger!
Great Video and Photos as usual Morten. I Can't wait to see part 3, and hopefully we will get to see the Wolf again. Maybe even with a few Friends. 👍🏻
Morten, spectacular. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures with us.
Thanks Morten. What a wonderful experience . I'm so pleased that you saw the white wolf. Really looking forward to part 3🙂
What an incredible and emotional episode Morten. Delighted to see your friend find another message and then such a fantastic finish to the episode with you filming and photographing the white wolf. The narration and storytelling really adds to the drama of what you are kindly sharing with us. Thank you
I Think there are no words for these great unique adventure. Thank you for these fantastic pictures, i can imagine how you must feel!
Большое спасибо за видио, очень интересно. Ждем 3 части. С уважением из Челябинска!
Looking forward for the 3rd part Morten. To find the message in a small bottle and to be able to meet the white wolf were great....
What a fantastic adventure, so exciting. I am pleased for you that your patience paid off and you got to photograph the white wolf, I can't wait for part 3. :-)
Waited so impatiently for it! Thank you for your amazing work Morten! Greetings from Switzerland!
Thanks a lot - enjoy the story;)
Such a beautiful and moving film. Your work is a precious gift to us all. Thank you Morten.
Oh no! That is just cruel Mr Hilmer, how on earth are we supposed to contend with our suspense until part 3! Fantastic again. I am so, so delighted for you that your ghost showed itself. Your goosebumps plus 234K subscribers goosebumps. Infectious :-)
I am planing to buy Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II telephoto lens in the next couple of days, and looking for reviews brought me to your channel and I have never regreted for a second. Your choice of music, combined with your story telling is second to none. You are a treasure sir. Thank you very much.