If it comes to what initially sparked my interest in wildlife photography, I would say I just wanted to take pictures all the time, even when I didn't have scheduled shoots. I found the squirrels to be the perfect models—available and cute—and I seem to find new ways to portray them as I go along.

I like to shoot against the light, so you need some light from the front to lift the shadows and get correct colors. I started out with a piece of tinfoil wrapped around cardboard as a reflector. Now I use two Rotolight Neo 2 and a Ledgo LED-panel on top.

The challenge is, of course, to have them step into the studio with me sitting there. Whether it was time and patience or me sending out good vibes that made them come to me, I don't know, but they eventually did.

I plan for the shots by arranging the flowers and greenery around them, but it rarely comes out as I planned. It depends entirely on where the squirrel decides to sit. I try to find the best camera settings and angles to see what I can get.

There are many memorable and interesting moments I witnessed while photographing squirrels. The greatest thing is, of course, getting a chance to capture playful squirrel babies. Some may worry that they would be disturbed, but if I get too close, they stop playing and just sit still. So, to get the playful pictures, you need a long lens, to keep still, and not have them notice you. This period doesn't last more than 1-2 weeks.

There are a couple of key considerations when aiming to capture compelling images of squirrels. One of the most important ones is knowing the best time during the day to spot them. Squirrels sleep 16-17 hours a day, and the books say they are awake in the mornings and evenings. I don't think they are all on the same schedule, but mornings are the best, as they have the best light.

They say that patience and observation are crucial in wildlife photography. However, I am not actually a very patient man. I prefer to visit the squirrels, get my pictures, and leave. Sometimes it's just like that, and it's fun. However, in summer, they sometimes won't come at all. It's just me and the mosquitoes. I could do without that. But now, I am much more at peace. I'm not waiting for the squirrels; I'm enjoying nature, living in the present moment. And when the squirrels come, I invite them to stay and have their portrait taken. It's a good time for all.