It was a little tough for this photo instructor to be sidelined with a knee injury when I’m used to getting out and about with guests on landings and Zodiac cruises. On the bright side, it gave me even more time to contemplate the stunning landscape of Svalbard from the outside deck. At recap, I gave a short presentation on features of the iPhone camera that many people don’t know about—how to adjust the exposure to best capture high-contrast scenes, for instance. All the images in this report were taken with an iPhone. It’s a wonderful and convenient tool for telling the story of an expedition, and as the saying goes, “the best camera is the one you have with you when inspiration strikes.” More often than not, in this digital age, it’s the one in your pocket.
6/17/2025
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National Geographic Resolution
Spitsbergen Island, Svalbard
Today, we landed at the stunning glacier front of Nordbreen, nestled deep within the majestic Wijdefjorden. The day offered unforgettable experiences, both on land and at sea. Our long hikers embarked on an epic journey up to the ridge of Slettho. The ascent was rewarded with sweeping views of the rugged, dramatic landscape carved by ancient ice. From this high vantage point, we felt the raw power and isolation of the Arctic. As we stood together in five minutes of silence, taking in the vast stillness, nature answered with a breathtaking moment: the glacier calved. The thunderous sound echoed across the fjord—a powerful reminder of the ever-changing world of ice. Meanwhile, our Zodiac cruisers witnessed the same calving event from sea level. From the water, they felt the full force of the glacier’s collapse—the crash of ice, the rolling waves, and the deep, resonating boom that followed. It was a rare and visceral moment, connecting all of us more deeply with the Arctic wilderness. A day like this reminds us of why we journey to these remote places: for connection, perspective, and awe.
