PAUL NICKLEN
Paul Nicklen: A Pioneering Canadian Photographer and Marine Biologist
Paul Nicklen, a Canadian photographer and marine biologist, specializes in documenting the polar regions and their wildlife. For over twenty years, he has captured the beauty and the plight of our planet. As an expedition photographer for National Geographic magazine, Paul Nicklen engages a global audience with his unique style of documentary photography that both informs and establishes an emotional connection with wild subjects in extreme environments.
Nicklen’s work offers a rare glimpse into the underwater world that few get to see. His sensitive and evocative images have earned him over 30 of the highest accolades in his field, including the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year and the prestigious World Press Photo for Photojournalism. Discover his captivating imagery on IGWT.
Paul Nicklen, Parenthood, 2011
Paul Nicklen: A Passionate Advocate for Biodiversity
Born on July 21, 1968, in Tisdale, Saskatchewan, Canada, Paul Nicklen is a celebrated photographer and marine biologist. In 2019, he was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame and honored as a Member of the Order of Canada.
In 2014, Nicklen co-founded SeaLegacy, a non-profit organization that brings ocean conservation to the forefront through powerful visual storytelling, impactful campaigns, and funding for sustainable development projects. SeaLegacy has launched a progressive chapter in ocean conservation, inspiring millions to mobilize and advocate for the protection of pristine areas threatened by climate change.
In 2020, on the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day, Paul Nicklen launched a web platform called Only One, encouraging people to take action and adopt sustainable habits to benefit the ocean.
Paul Nicklen, Polar Relfections, 2006
Paul Nicklen: Renowned Nature Photographer and Conservation Advocate
Paul Nicklen is a distinguished member of the International League of Conservation Photographers and the National Geographic Society. He has secured first place in the Nature Stories category of the World Press Photo four times and was named Wildlife Photographer of the Year in 2012.
Beyond being one of the world’s most celebrated nature photographers, Paul Nicklen is an accomplished author and a National Geographic Fellow. He received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Victoria in recognition of his photography’s impact on climate change. His conservation efforts have also earned him the Natural Resources Defense Council BioGems Visionary Award, and he is recognized as a Sony Artisan of Imagery.
Paul Nicklen: Collaborating to Inspire Change
Over the past two decades, Paul Nicklen has worked closely with scientists, filmmakers, conservationists, and explorers to raise awareness and inspire action on global issues like climate change. His collaborative efforts aim to drive meaningful change and protect our planet for future generations.
Paul Nicklen: Prestigious Photographic Awards
Paul Nicklen has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, recognizing his exceptional contributions to photography and conservation:
- Lifetime Achievement Award, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- Honorary Doctor of Science, University of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
- World Press Photo Award 2013, Nature Stories: First Prize
- Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2012, BBC Wildlife and Natural History Museum
- BioGems Visionary Award for Arctic Photography 2012
- World Press Photo Award 2010, Nature Stories: First Prize
- Award of Excellence 2010: Photography of the Year – International Competition
- Award of Excellence 2009: Photography of the Year – International Competition
- World Press Photo Award 2008: Second Prize
- World Press Photo Award 2007, Nature Stories: First Prize
- World Press Photo Award 2004, Nature Stories: First Prize


