How photographer Jonas Stenström uses Flexfoto + his best tips
2 October 2024
Jonas Stenström has a background as a marine biologist and did his entire undergraduate degree at the Great Barrier Reef in Australia (yes, we are jealous now!). The passion for nature and adventure has always been there, and alongside his studies and travels his drive grew both to document and at the same time to spread knowledge about all the wonderful things there are to discover in nature.
– The camera is a magical tool! Through the camera you are reminded to stop and see details, patterns and connections around you in a new way, says Jonas Stenström.
Today he runs a business in science communication through photo and film, with the aim of narrowing the gap between scientific research and the public.
– The photographic passion is definitely animals, nature and landscape first and foremost, but there is a fair amount of people too, he says.
You came into contact with Flexfoto when you were going to photograph musk oxen. Tell us about that incredible experience!
– It was about surveying and documenting wild Swedish musk oxen. As far as we know there are only eight animals today making up the entire Swedish population. An incredibly small number! It reminds you quickly how important patience and humility are in nature photography. There is no guarantee that you will find the animals every time you go out, and when we are lucky enough to do so it is important to keep your distance. Both for our safety and so as not to stress the musk oxen. That is why it was important for me to bring the equipment needed for all the situations that might come up.
What other projects do you dream about?
– Far too many! Every project I do and every person I meet opens my eyes to new projects I want to do. One area I have always wanted to travel to and document is Antarctica; it is high on the wish list.
What do you think of the experience with Flexfoto?
– It was absolutely perfect! Delivery went incredibly smoothly, contact and support were fantastic and everything felt very good value. Just putting the equipment back in the same box it was delivered in and sending it back with a prepaid return label – as easy as it gets!
When do you think it is better to rent photo equipment than to buy it?
– Even if you would like to own all your equipment, it is impossible to have everything. That is where Flexfoto fits perfectly! Often you only need certain equipment on a few occasions, which makes it pointless to have it sitting on a shelf at home the rest of the time. On top of that, investing in camera equipment is not a cheap business, so it is a great way to try things out and get a feel for them before buying them yourself.
What tips do you have for people interested in photography who want to develop that interest?
– Just go out and try! Take the camera with you more than feels necessary. Start with the equipment you have available and then work out what you would like to develop and try more of.
Jonas rented:
More of Jonas Stenström's pictures
