21-year-old, Finland-based photographer Konsta Punkka has an extraordinary gift with animals, as can be seen from his close interactions with wildlife captured on camera. The self-described “squirrel whisperer” uses his iPhone and DSLR to capture enchanting snapshots of woodland creatures from an incredibly short distance, often within arm’s reach. Birds, squirrels, and foxes draw near to eat food directly from his hand, resulting in intimate portraits from a unique perspective.

Punkka is very careful to disturb his subjects as little as possible. He avoids feeding animals in dangerous areas like cities to prevent the creatures from returning to the spot in search of food. He also makes sure not to feed the wildlife too much so as not to change their diets. Most of all, Punkka relies on creating a trustworthy, peaceful environment so that the animals feel safe approaching him on their own.

Konsta Punkka: website / 500px
Via: mymodernmet.com