Baffin Island: Filming at the edge of the world

As a natural history cinematographer, getting to film polar bears, beluga whales, and narwhals at the floe edge of Baffin Island was the adventure of a lifetime that genuinely felt like being at the edge of the world. Located in the remote and rugged Arctic, this region is home to some of the planet's most spectacular and unique wildlife. The feeling of isolation and being on the edge of the known world was palpable.

To capture these amazing creatures on camera, we ventured out onto the frozen sea ice, braving the harsh Arctic elements and relying on the expertise of our Inuit guides to lead us to the best spots for observing and filming.

Working on the floe edge can be a challenging and rewarding experience. The floe edge is the area where sea ice meets open water, and it is a dynamic and constantly changing environment. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals, polar bears, and various bird species. It can be physically demanding, as the weather can be harsh and conditions can be challenging. However, it is also a unique opportunity to experience and learn about this fascinating part of the world.

As we trudged through the snow and ice, the anticipation of what we might see around the next bend kept us on the edge of our seats. And excitement grew over us when we finally caught sight of our first polar bear. We watched in awe as these majestic creatures hunted seals, played with each other, and swam in the icy water.

But the adventure didn't stop there. As we made our way along the floe edge, we were also treated to the sight of Beluga Whales, Bow Head, and one of the most breathtaking sights we encountered was the Narwhal, a mysterious and elusive creature known for its long, spiralled tusk. These animals are found only in the Arctic waters around Canada, Greenland, and Russia and are rarely seen.

Working with the Inuit guides was a true highlight of the trip. Not only did they help us navigate the challenging Arctic terrain, but they also shared their stories and traditions with us, giving us a deeper understanding of the land and its people.

Overall, filming polar bears, beluga whales, and narwhals at the floe edge of Baffin Island was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that we'll never forget. It was a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and power of these incredible animals while also learning about the culture and traditions of the Inuit people. And the feeling of being at the edge of the world, surrounded by nothing but snow and ice, was truly unforgettable.

If you are thinking about heading on an adventure to Baffin Island, please reach out if you have any questions.