Following in the footsteps of Frank Hurley - Frans Lanting

Frans Lanting has been fascinated by Frank Hurley’s work and has retraced his footsteps in locations ranging from South Georgia to Elephant Island and into the Weddell Sea.

He pitched a camp on sea ice in the Weddell Sea less than 50 miles from where the Endurance got trapped in pack ice. He was also able to rephotograph Hurley’s iconic image of Shackleton leaving from Elephant Island, but with modern day tourists in the scene.

To get a better sense of what it was like to take photographs in Antarctica 100 years ago, Lanting adopted the same kind of camera Hurley once used. He was able to secure a century-old Kodak VPK camera and had it restored to working condition. Lanting may be the only photographer still using it.

Working with the VPK camera has given Lanting a unique appreciation for Frank Hurley’s accomplishments and he continues to apply this vintage camera to create images that blend old technology with new ideas.

Lanting’s Hurley project aims to pay tribute to Frank Hurley, who was a pioneer in visual storytelling. However, Lanting’s work is also a reflection about the changing nature of exploration and photography and our relationship with the frozen continent.

About the speaker

Frans Lanting's influential work as a photographer and author has helped create leverage for conservation efforts ranging from local initiatives to global campaigns.

Born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Lanting is considered one of the greatest photographers of our time. His work has transformed wildlife photography, and has appeared around the world in books, magazines and exhibitions.

Lanting served as the Photographer-in-Residence for National Geographic and has experience spending weeks in remote environments to capture rare views of some of the world's most fascinating, rarest and – often – endangered animals.

He serves as an Ambassador for the World Wildlife Fund Netherlands, the National Council of the World Wildlife Fund USA, and the Leadership Council of Conservation International – just a fraction of his ongoing commitment to promoting conservation efforts worldwide.

Well-known publications include, among others: Madagascar: A World out of Time, Penguin, Bonobo: The Forgotten Ape, Jungles, Eye to Eye: Intimate Encounters with the Animal World, Into Africa, and Bay of life: From Wind to Whales.

Together with his partner, Chris Eckstrom, Lanting's mission is to "promote knowledge and understanding about the earth and its natural history through images and ideas that convey a passion for nature and a sense of wonder – and concern – about our living planet."

Booking information

Monday night lectures are open to Fellows and Members and are included in the cost of membership.

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About Monday night lectures

Our Monday night lectures are exclusive to Fellows and Members and are included in the cost of membership. Members can book to attend the lectures in-person at the Society, or enjoy them live from the comfort of your own home.

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• Step-free access to the event
• Accessible toilets
• Assistance dogs are welcome
• Hearing loop

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