Sharjah24: Renowned German National Geographic photographer and conservation advocate, Florian Schulz, captivated audiences on the second day of Xposure International Photography Festival (Xposure 2024) with his talk titled, “Visions of the Wild.” The presentation was part of the festival’s dedicated Conservation Summit agenda which is aimed to harness the power of photography and film to champion environmental concerns and create awareness.
Schulz, whose childhood was spent in the Alps, expressed his deep connection with nature, describing photography and filmmaking as sometimes just an excuse to be in the wild. “The time spent outdoors, the change of the seasons is what drives me,” he shared, highlighting the metamorphic power of experiencing nature, especially in remote locations like the Arctic, and his current home, Alaska.
His talk covered his extensive experiences over the past 13 years capturing the breathtaking landscapes and iconic wildlife of the Arctic, particularly the majestic polar bear. Describing the thrill and trepidation of encountering these apex predators in their pristine habitat, Schulz stressed the importance of relatable imagery in sparking environmental awareness. “We need to have imagery that resonates with people, so that they will ask… what will happen to polar bears when the last bit of sea ice disappears?” he stated emotionally, underscoring the urgency of conservation efforts in the face of climate change.
Schulz’s dedication to protecting the environment extends far beyond photography and he spoke about being a vocal advocate for wildlife corridors, spearheading the ‘Freedom to Roam’ project which envisions the creation of national corridors around the globe, similar to the establishment of Yellowstone National Park. This initiative aims to connect fragmented habitats and ensure safe passage for animals, allowing them to migrate freely and replenish populations. Schulz also discussed his tireless efforts to campaign against drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) for many years. ANWR is one of the last pristine wilderness areas in North America, and drilling would not only endanger the fragile ecosystem but also threaten the livelihoods of indigenous communities who rely on the land for subsistence hunting and cultural preservation.
His talk also showcased his work as a filmmaker, including the IMAX films “To the Arctic” and “The Arctic Our Last Great Wilderness.” Through his captivating visuals, Schulz has managed to document the beauty of the natural world while shedding light on the threats it faces, urging viewers to consider their role in protecting these precious ecosystems and the life within them.
“With so much of the world that has been irreversibly changed by mankind, why not leave a few places untouched and pristine,” he concluded, leaving a lasting impression on the audience with a powerful call to action.
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