‘I’m amazed I lived to tell the tale’: Award-winning photographer on a life spent in the wild

Date:

July 2, 2024

For most people, the idea of venturing into the heart of the African savannah, surrounded by predators and unpredictable weather, would be a daunting prospect. But for award-winning photographer, Paul Nicklen, it’s a way of life. With a career spanning over three decades, Nicklen has dedicated his life to capturing the beauty and majesty of the natural world, often putting himself in harm’s way to get the perfect shot.

Born in the Canadian Arctic, Nicklen grew up surrounded by the harsh, unforgiving landscape of the Far North. It was here that he developed a deep respect and appreciation for the natural world, and a passion for photography that would take him to the most remote and inhospitable corners of the globe.

“I’ve had my fair share of close calls over the years,” Nicklen says, reflecting on his many adventures. “From being charged by a polar bear in the Arctic to being caught in a storm in the middle of the African savannah, I’m amazed I lived to tell the tale.”

Despite the risks, Nicklen’s dedication to his craft has paid off. His photographs have been featured in top publications around the world, including National Geographic, and have won numerous awards, including the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year award.

But Nicklen’s work is not just about capturing stunning images; it’s also about raising awareness about the impact of human activity on the natural world. Through his photography, he aims to inspire people to take action to protect the planet and its inhabitants.

“I’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects of climate change, habitat destruction, and pollution,” Nicklen says. “As a photographer, I feel a sense of responsibility to use my platform to raise awareness about these issues and to inspire people to make a difference.”

One of Nicklen’s most notable projects is his work on the impact of climate change on polar bears. Through his photographs, he has highlighted the struggles of these majestic creatures as they adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

“Polar bears are an iconic symbol of the Arctic, but they’re also a canary in the coal mine,” Nicklen explains. “Their struggles are a warning sign for the rest of us. If we don’t take action to reduce our carbon footprint and protect their habitat, we risk losing these incredible creatures forever.”

Despite the gravity of the issues he tackles, Nicklen’s passion and enthusiasm for his work are infectious. He is a true adventurer at heart, always seeking out new challenges and opportunities to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

“I’m still as excited about photography today as I was when I first started out,” Nicklen says. “There’s nothing quite like the thrill of capturing a moment that no one else has seen before. It’s a rush like no other.”

As Nicklen looks back on his remarkable career, he is grateful for the opportunities he’s had and the experiences he’s shared with the natural world.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have been able to make a living doing something I love,” he says. “And I hope that my photographs will inspire others to care about the planet and its incredible creatures as much as I do.”

With his camera always at the ready, Nicklen is already planning his next adventure, ready to face whatever challenges come his way. As he says, “The wild is where I feel most alive, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”