The last of the 68 top nature photographers in the “Wild Wonders of Europe” initiative, returned on Friday, completing the 14 months of intensive field work, including 118 photo assignments to all 48 European countries.
They now hold a world first. The most comprehensive, up-to-date picture collection ever gathered of Europe’s natural jewels, containing an astounding 150,000 images.
Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)
“Braving soaring heat, deep seas and extreme cold, our Dream Team of photographers have created a breathtaking document of our shared natural heritage. Physical proof of an amazing comeback story and showing a side of Europe previously not well known – with really wild landscapes and charismatic species. It is truly a unique achievement”.
Florian Moellers, Wild Wonders of Europe Communications Director.
The very last photographer to return from the field had travelled more than 8000km by car and ferry, finally arriving back home in Northern Germany last week with thousands of images to process. Solvin Zankl’s mission to Turkey to photograph endangered Loggerhead turtles had also uncovered a Nile Softshell Turtle with a 1m long shell, on the Dalyan floodplains. A fitting finale.
The project’s first mission in May 2008 had been with Finnish bird action photography specialist Markus Varesvuo documenting the Birdlife of the Hungarian Puszta – the spectacular rollers, bee-eaters and hoopoes.
From this reservoir of images will emerge in spring 2010 the flagship Great Wild Show Outdoor Exhibition. Serving as inspiration for millions as it tours throughout Europe over the next 3 years and showcasing the very best of Europe’s wildlife and wild places, through the emotional impact of beautiful photography.
The story that will be revealed is a positive one and till now, unknown. It will focus on the comeback species, the re-wilding of landscapes and the conservation successes out there in Europe’s wilderness over the past three decades, whilst at the same time highlighting the landscapes and species that are in need of protection.
Next year, The International Year of Biodiversity is a milestone for conservation and the Wild Wonders of Europe series of Great Wild Show Outdoor Exhibitions have specifically been timed to coincide, launching in April, 2010.
The project can still be followed on their blogs, and new galleries are being put up one by one, plus the photo competition continues!