Curiosity plays a big part in my passion for photographing nature at its purest. And chamois in the snow in the upper reaches of Valle Spluga were a natural attraction. It’s impossible not to be impressed by their capacity to endure even the most hostile of winters. On my regular photo excursions throughout the valley I noted that groups often abandon the more inaccessible spots they usually occupy and it’s possible to appreciate, photograph and even approach them without risking life and limb on high. Binoculars though are a must.
Chamois live in close groups composed of females and their young. They are creatures of habit and will return year in year out to their favoured spots. Autumn will see the arrival of the male of the species. Good news all round.
My advice to any of you photographers out there is simple enough: you obviously need a good subject, this might require patience, but persevere! And warm clothing is essential – you may be standing around at altitude for hours. But for those who might prefer to snap away in the less demanding environment of the valley bottom maybe I can look forward in Spring to sharing with you some of my images of the quite splendid Pian di Spagna nature reserve.

Text by Cesare Contin