The Crater Lake of Molten Lava

Science & Technology, third prize stories

1994

The first scientific expedition studying the crater lake of molten lava in 20 years, because the area had been inaccessible during the rebellion in Eritrea.

Commissioned by

Location: Erta'ale, Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

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 lef him to scour the planet in order to provide us with photographic testimonies of these worders.

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 renowed magazines such as GEO, Paris Match, Stern, Life, National Geographic.. And has published over twenty books that have translated in several languages.