Paul Nicklen

Paul Nicklen has transitioned from marine biologist to world-renowned photojournalist and conservationist, telling critical stories about the ocean and the precarious state of the polar regions. After transitioning from a career as a wildlife biologist, Paul Nicklen swiftly became a renowned photojournalist for National Geographic Magazine, publishing eleven stories documenting the planet’s most extreme environments. His debut book, ‘Seasons of the Arctic,’ was released in 2000. Nicklen’s early work garnered recognition, including World Press Photo First Prizes for Nature Stories in 2003 and 2006, and Second and Third Prizes in 2007.

His acclaimed book ‘Polar Obsession’ was published in 2009, the same year his work was featured in the ‘Extreme Exposure’ exhibit at the Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles. Nicklen continued to earn critical acclaim, securing World Press Photo First Prizes for Nature Stories in 2009, 2010, and 2013. In 2010, he received an Award of Excellence from the Pictures of the Year International Competition. He captivated audiences as a speaker at TED2011 in 2011, sharing insights on pressing environmental issues.

In 2022, he entered a significant collaboration with Rolex as part of its Perpetual Planet Initiative, further amplifying critical conservation messages worldwide. His contributions have been recognized with honorary doctorates from both the University of Victoria (Doctorate of Science) and Simon Fraser University (Doctorate of Arts), underscoring his influence across scientific and artistic realms. Nicklen’s powerful visual narratives continue to shape public understanding of the precarious state of the ocean and polar regions, driving awareness and change for over three decades.