Trond Are Berge has been awarded the Jon Østeng Hov Prize in connection with the celebration of what would have been Jon Østeng Hov’s 90th birthday on January 23, 2026.

The prize is presented by Bygdapreg and is awarded to individuals or organizations who work in the spirit of Jon Østeng Hov, one of Norway’s most well-known nature photographers, and who through photography, storytelling, and other forms of communication help foster knowledge of — and love for — the living natural world. After careful consideration of many strong candidates, the jury selected Trond Are Berge based on his long-term artistic work and commitment to nature photography and visual storytelling.

Jon Østeng Hov (1936–2019) was a Norwegian nature photographer, author, and lecturer from Ålen in Holtålen, Trøndelag. Through books, lectures, and his long-running column in the regional newspaper Adresseavisen, he played an important role in strengthening the understanding and appreciation of nature in Mid-Norway.

The award ceremony took place during a public anniversary event that also marked the release of 6,500 newly digitised photographs from Jon Østeng Hov’s archive. The extensive digitisation work was carried out by Trond Arnesen, in collaboration with Gunnerus.no, making a significant part of Jon Østeng Hov’s photographic legacy accessible for future generations.