Frans Lanting: A journey through the wilderness - unique nature photography
Animals, plants, landscapes, weather and natural phenomena are the classic subjects of nature photography. It is one of the most exciting and particularly challenging areas of photography. Many internationally renowned photographers dedicate themselves professionally to this subject. One of them is Frans Lanting. While many professional photographers dedicate themselves to special subjects such as wildlife photography, landscape photography or the oceans as a habitat, Lanting is active in a broad spectrum of nature photography and regularly publishes breathtaking photos.
Anyone who sets out into nature to capture its diversity knows that technique and timing are only part of the task. At least as important is the question of how to transport the sensitive camera equipment safely - without compromising on mobility or protection. A compact, padded bag that provides reliable protection even in rain, wind and weather, such as the William camera bag made from Hydro leather, helps you to be ready at the crucial moment - whether in the rainforest, in the mountains or on the edge of a glacier.
Frans Lanting - nature photographer and active conservationist
Born in the Netherlands, he now lives in California. He runs his photo agency with photo studio and gallery in Santa Cruz. From here he starts his photographic journeys to the most remote spots on earth. He studied economics in his native city of Rotterdam and graduated with a Master’s Degree. In the USA, he completed a further degree in environmental planning before devoting himself intensively to photography. Since then, he has combined his commitment to environmental protection and nature conservation with his passion for photography. He works closely with the world's leading magazines, including National Geographic Photographer. Outdoor Photographer, The Economist, The New York Times, GEO and many other magazines also regularly publish Lanting's photographs.
The photographer repeatedly shows the wealth of his extraordinary images in exhibitions in the USA and Europe. His photographs can also be found in numerous books published by Frans Lanting together with his wife, the editor, author and producer Christine Eckstrom. Many of the lavishly designed illustrated books are dedicated to special themes as nature documentaries. All of them show the photographer's special ability to depict the close relationship between humans, the animal world and nature as a whole through animal photography.
The photographer with a keen sense of our planet and ambassador for the World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF) has received various awards for his work and achievements. The Dutch royal family honored him as a Knight of the Golden Ark. Among others, he received the Ansel Adams Award, the Lennart Nilsson Award, the Cherry Kearton Award and was named Photographer of the Year. He received the World Press Photo Award several times in the 1980s.
Photographs with empathy for the beauty of nature worth protecting
Living in harmony with nature and all topics relating to nature, environmental and species protection are particularly close to Frans Lanting's heart. He expresses his love of nature in his photographs in a particularly impressive way. The images embody his great sensitivity to the natural habitats of plants and animals and raise awareness of the need to protect these sensitive ecosystems.
Lanting's pictures are not simply photographically perfect images of impressive landscapes, plants or animals. Rather, each of his pictures reveals his distinct empathy for the world of his subjects. It seems as if he develops a personal relationship with each animal when he captures wildlife in his pictures. Even plants appear in front of Lanting's lens from a completely new perspective. Each photo gives the impression that the photographer's passionate love of nature flows into the motif.
Nature photography requires a lot of patience to capture special situations. But that alone is not enough for Frans Lanting. He has a special sense for depicting his subjects in their habitat. At the same time, he has the patience to capture the mood he wants for his picture. Through his unique approach, the wild animals he photographs give the impression of familiarity and close interaction with him. This effect always triggers an emotional reaction to the subject in the viewer, in addition to admiration for his photographic skills. However, his images also highlight the suffering of ecosystems and the fragility of our planet. In this way, the National Geographic photographer raises awareness and motivates people, organizations and governments to treat nature with respect. With his photos and numerous activities such as public appearances and the initiation of campaigns, Frans Lanting actively supports environmental organizations all over the world.
If you want to interact sensitively with nature like Lanting, you need a solution that allows intuitive access to the camera without attracting a lot of attention. A lightweight sling bag, which is worn across the back and can be swung forward with a flick of the wrist, makes it possible to capture subjects spontaneously - quietly, efficiently and with secure access. It is a tactical advantage, especially when spotting animals in confined spaces or in rapidly changing light conditions.
Lanting's journeys into the wilderness
The special type of wildlife photography preferred by Lanting is only possible in the natural and untouched habitats of plants and animals. It is not possible during a photo safari or in a reserve. Authentic nature documentation requires numerous photographic journeys to the few places on earth where untouched nature still exists, but also to places where it is already in danger of being destroyed. They lead to destinations in Africa, the Amazon regions of South America, the Galapagos Islands or the Arctic and Antarctic.
For what he considers to be perfect wildlife photography, he often goes without any comfort for weeks at a time and puts up with harsh living conditions. He circumnavigated the sub-Antarctic island of South Georgia in a sailing boat. He spent several weeks living on platform towers to catch glimpses of macaws in the treetops of the Amazon basin. Living in a tent in inhospitable places in the middle of the wilderness is an integral part of his photographic work.
When every movement counts, the carrying system should not be underestimated. A discreet camera strap with integrated cut protection insert ensures safety and comfort - whether on long marches through the rainforest or on the open plains of Africa. This means that the camera is always ready without restricting freedom of movement.
The sensational photographs are not only taken on the ground and on the water. Many of Lanting's images only achieve their effect through the expansive overview of aerial shots. This applies to animal photography as well as to the illustration of environmental damage. He shows this in a series of images about climate change, among other things.
Traveling in the footsteps of the famous National Geographic photographer
The famous nature photographer addresses the public with numerous projects, campaigns and events as part of his commitment to nature conservation and environmental protection. But he also shares his photographic knowledge and inspiration in online courses that interested people can book on his website. In intensive workshops, Lanting teaches small groups of photographers his approach to nature and wildlife photography. The courses usually take place near his home in California. However, there is also the occasional opportunity to take part in a virtual workshop anywhere in the world.
Special offers from the Lanting-Eckstrom couple are exclusive photographic trips through the wilderness in many parts of the world. Frans Lanting and Christine Eckstrom create individual itineraries based on their personal experiences. With these trips, they offer small groups and families an unforgettable nature experience in the footsteps of the famous nature photographer and conservationist.
Not only do they often take hundreds of photos on their travels, they also collect filters, memory cards and batteries. Practical accessories and organizers ensure that everything is safely stowed away and can be found at the right moment - whether in the middle of the jungle or on the edge of Antarctica.
