Inlandsis Greenland

Science & Technology, third prize stories

1992

Following similar expeditions on a smaller scale, French scientists and explorers joined forces in the Inlandsis expedition to Greenland. In a world of ice and snow undisturbed for centuries, the explorers entered deep shafts formed by subterranean rivulets of melting ice. By descending to a depth of 157m - a world record - expedition leader Janot Lamberton went some 2,000 years back in time. Samples taken at various levels provided information about the climate and pollution of different periods. The scientific research also included work on the ice-cap and under water at the foot of icebergs.

Commissioned by: Geo

Photo Credit: Philippe Bourseiller

Philippe Bourseiller travels through the vast open spaces that Nature has created on our planet with his Canon in hand. For nearly fifteen years, his fascination with all that is extreme in Nature (volcanoes, huge deserts of sand and ice) has left him to scour the planet in order to provide us with photographic testimonies of these wonders.

In 1983, he joined the staff of France Soir Magazine. This was his initiation to color photography, and all types of subjects were seen through the eye of his camera. In 1991, his decision to become a free-lance photographer was motivated by his desire to specialize in subjects related to Nature and the Environment.

Recognized worldwide for his mastery in light, color and layout he has received several World Press Awards and a Visa d’Or at the International Photo-journalism Festival in Perpignan, France.

He frequently collaborates with world renowned magazines such as GEO, Paris Match, Stern, LIFE, National Geographic.. and has published over twenty books that have translated in several languages.