The Oulu-based graphic designer’s eye is drawn to the aesthetics of nature. Light, encounters, natural phenomena and the changing seasons offer endless opportunities for a nature photographer to capture the beauty of the wild.
Nature as a source of inspiration and direction
Sami Säily is a graphic designer and professional photographer based in Oulu, Finland, whose passion lies in capturing nature and outdoor themes. His photographs present the northern landscape in all its diversity – from animals, birds and plants to striking natural scenery.
The nature of the Syöte region, in every season, has been one of Säily’s most important subjects throughout his photographic journey. His background in graphic design is reflected in his work through clear composition and masterful use of light. His images move between documentary observation and aesthetic interpretation.
From birdwatching to nature photography
“Being in nature has always been important to me, but my interest in birdwatching as a teenager introduced a new passion: photography. About fifteen years ago, that small spark reignited when nature photography entered my life as a hobby and completely swept me away,” Sami recalls about the early days of his photography career.
The delicate moments of northern nature
The Oulu-based graphic designer’s eye is drawn to the aesthetics of nature. Light, encounters, natural phenomena and the changing seasons offer endless opportunities for a nature photographer to capture the beauty of the wild.
Northern landscapes are at the heart of Sami’s work, but whenever possible, animals and birds also find their way into his photographs. Siberian jays and willow tits, in particular, have become favorite subjects due to their curious and friendly nature, but his images also feature many other forest inhabitants – from large predators to golden eagles.
In the silence of ancient forests
The untouched old-growth forests of Syöte hold a special place in Sami’s heart – one could even say the forests of Syöte completely enchanted him. He can just as easily be found photographing the northern lights on open bogs as capturing the delicate moments of spring when nature bursts into bloom.
During winter, the photographer often travels on sliding snowshoes, skiing his own tracks through the wilderness. Sometimes he is joined by his wife Katja and the family dog, Topi.
Photography exhibitions inspired by nature
Säily’s exhibition focusing on the nature of the region was displayed at the Syöte Visitor Centre during the winter season of 2019–2020. Another exhibition presenting the natural surroundings of Paltaniemi village, located on the southern shore of Lake Oulujärvi, was shown in Kajaani in summer 2023 and later at the Syöte Visitor Centre during the turn of 2024–2025.
His landscape photographs taken in the national park area have also been featured in the permanent exhibition of the Syöte Visitor Centre. Sami’s works were part of the 2025 Glimpses of North (Välähdyksiä) exhibition, and his photographs will also be featured in the summer 2026 Glimpses of North (Välähdyksiä) exhibition along the Huipunpolku trail in Iso-Syöte.
Glimpses of North (Välähdyksiä) is part of the Oulu2026 European Capital of Culture programme.
