Mia Surakka's eagle collection

Winter Eagles in Finland

Photographing a golden eagle up close is an unforgettable experience. Capturing images of this shy and once-persecuted bird is so challenging that it almost always requires specially designed setups.

Hides specifically built for eagle photography offer a practical solution for nature photographers eager to capture these magnificent birds of prey at close range. These hides are typically situated in remote areas where eagles establish their territories or spend their winters. Companies providing photography hides typically maintain eagle feeding sites from September to March, allowing photographers to rent a hide for a day during this period.

Photographers arrive at the hide in darkness before sunrise to avoid alerting nearby eagles to human presence. Once inside, they set up their cameras and organize essentials for the day, as complete silence must be maintained in the hide. Departure takes place only after darkness falls.

If luck is on your side and the eagles approach during the day, they often first perch on trees at the edge of the clearing. At this point, it’s crucial to stay calm and keep the camera completely still. Eagles carefully scan the area for safety, watching for any movement or noise. To prepare, it’s wise to adjust your camera’s settings and focus in advance to capture stunning images of the eagle gliding to the feeding site. When the eagle settles in to feed, it’s an excellent opportunity to take close-up portraits using a teleconverter. As the eagle leaves the feeding area, you’ll often have the best chance to capture breathtaking flight shots.

When booking a photography hide, keep in mind that there’s no guarantee eagles will appear on your chosen day. Hide operators do their best to ensure regular visits by maintaining feeding sites, but the birds are wild and free, and they feed wherever they choose. While it can be frustrating to miss out on photo opportunities, capturing images of these wild raptors is a deeply rewarding and unforgettable experience.

These photos were taken at Mia Surakka’s hides in Pirkanmaa, Finland, which regularly attract both golden and white-tailed eagles.