What focus type do you use?
"Usually Single Point AF; I place the focus towards the edge of the image in order to compose the picture as much as possible in camera. Many photographers prefer to use a centre focus and then compose the picture by cropping it in post, but they will lose pixels."
Do you use a tripod or do you prefer shooting handheld?
"With the exception of most of my night shots and when I'm using camera traps, I rarely use tripods. I find I'm much more flexible without one – and I often like to get down for a very low perspective."
What do you do in post-production?
"Adjustments like colour temperature, exposure, sharpness and contrast. My split-level shots are obviously high contrast, so I adjust the highlights and shadows to make the final image appear closer to the way our eyes would see it."
What's been the toughest Arctic species to shoot?
"The white-tailed eagle. I wanted images that had never been taken before: a wide close-up of the eagle grabbing a fish from the water, and one from a fish's perspective underwater. It took years to develop the right system and find the right eagles, light, wind and current conditions to make it finally happen. But it was worth it!"
What's the best way for a new wildlife photographer to develop their skills?
"Practice as a 'couch photographer'. Play with your camera on your sofa and learn all of its possibilities and functions. That way you know exactly what to do when a possibility appears in the field, increasing your chances of a successful and unique picture."
Facebook: Audun-Rikardsen-Photography
Website: www.audunrikardsen.com