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Born to Ice
SeaLegacy co-founder, National Geographic photographer, acclaimed ocean conservationist, and TED Talks favorite, Paul Nicklen traces his extraordinary love affair with the polar regions in his most recent book, Born to Ice. His powerful images of iconic arctic and antarctic wildlife and scenery, coupled with his inspiring photographic storytelling, blends ethereal beauty of the icy landscape with a compelling call to action.
344 pages, Hardcover
Published August 15, 2018
288 people want to read
About the author
Paul Nicklen
12 books29 followersPaul Nicklen is a Canadian photographer, filmmaker, and marine biologist who has documented the beauty and the plight of our planet for over twenty years. As an assignment photographer for National Geographic magazine, Nicklen captures the imagination of a global audience.
Paul Nicklen lives a life of art, purpose and adventure, combining a career as an assignment photographer for National Geographic Magazine and founder of his own conservation society, SeaLegacy. In addition to being one of the world’s most acclaimed nature photographers, Paul is an acclaimed polar specialist, speaker, author, conservationist, National Geographic Fellow, and a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine with 20 completed stories to date. He has garnered more than 30 of the highest awards given to any photographer in his field, including the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the year and the prestigious World Press Photo for photojournalism. Paul has written several books including Seasons of the Arctic, Bear, Spirit of the Wild, Polar Obsession and his newest monograph, Born to Ice.
Paul Nicklen lives a life of art, purpose and adventure, combining a career as an assignment photographer for National Geographic Magazine and founder of his own conservation society, SeaLegacy. In addition to being one of the world’s most acclaimed nature photographers, Paul is an acclaimed polar specialist, speaker, author, conservationist, National Geographic Fellow, and a regular contributor to National Geographic Magazine with 20 completed stories to date. He has garnered more than 30 of the highest awards given to any photographer in his field, including the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the year and the prestigious World Press Photo for photojournalism. Paul has written several books including Seasons of the Arctic, Bear, Spirit of the Wild, Polar Obsession and his newest monograph, Born to Ice.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 27, 2019
Wow! ... Just wow!
Not your everyday photography or nature or conservation book, but something impressive and exquisite and awe-inspiring and extraordinary ... and gorgeous ... and, well, ... wow. Just wow...
Lion and tigers and bears, oh my!?!? Not exactly, but it might as well be ... and it's even more over the top. (Or, should I say, the top and bottom of the world???) So, how about: (sea) lions and bears (polar and brown) and penguins (in numbers that are, well, multitudinous ... nay, legion) and walruses and herring and whales (including killer whales) and ... narwhals!!!! Yes, narwhals, and not one or two of 'em, either!
So many thoughts - about this unique piece of work:
Nicklen is a master, and his photography is top notch. Add to that the print quality (and the size), and you're confronted with a massive collection of (extremely) large-scale eye candy. And Nicklen goes and stays and lives and dives in places that you and I will probably never go. (Nor will you and I take the risks he takes.) Check him out on Instagram at @paulnicklen - you won't be disappointed.
Each photograph is beautiful on its own. As a collection, it can almost be overwhelming. I expect everyone will choose different favorites, depending upon the types of animals or landscapes that resonate with them, preferences for color or monochrome, or ... I dunno ... close-ups versus action shots, etc. The collection is as diverse as it is epically ... well, big.
The book, however, is not without its downsides: it's (very) expensive (but, if you ever see/hold a copy, you'll see why - the print quality is stunning, and the archival paper - in both clarity and weight - exudes longevity rather than thrift); it's (extremely) heavy - indeed, even holding/reading it in your lap requires some amount of effort; it's humongous - it's very much a coffee table (or, I dunno, library table) book.... Given the quality of the photos (most of which span two pages) and the book printing .. and the cost, I'm (slightly) surprised that the book doesn't include lie-flat pages (kind of like a wedding album), but you can't have everything. And good luck getting your hands on a copy: I pre-ordered mine for a pre-Xmas delivery, later received a notice that it would come after the first of the calendar year, and ultimately received mine in mid-March. (Yeah, it was a little frustrating, but it was worth the wait.)
Also, there not much (OK, there's surprisingly little) text - enough to provide a (very) little background and to offer a (surprisingly neutral) conservation message ... but no real call to arms or suggestions for concrete action (indeed, there's not even the low hanging fruit of ... contact your legislative representative ... or donate to/support this cause or ... do this or don't do that ... or ...) And, apparently, this is a photo book for viewers/readers as opposed to, say, photographers - indeed, the books is entirely devoid of information describing Nicklen's photography (or diving or survival/camping) gear or methodology or, well, you get the idea....
Nicklen is pretty clear ... in his social media presence, in photography magazine interviews, and, of course, in the book ... that the book was a labor of love (and that shows) and his ultimate aspiration was to inspire conservation and action on climate change ... preserving the ice that sustains so much of the world's ice, upon which so many of our ecosystems and food chains depend.... On that score, this reader is glad that he's read some of those interviews which (somewhat strangely) were somewhat more informative than the book itself. Granted, that means that the the text doesn't distract from the visual feast that the photos provide, so, maybe it was intentional.
My bottom line: if you have a chance to view (let alone own) the book, take advantage. It's a remarkable career achievement, and it deserves the acclaim that it's received to date (and I expect will continue to receive).
Not your everyday photography or nature or conservation book, but something impressive and exquisite and awe-inspiring and extraordinary ... and gorgeous ... and, well, ... wow. Just wow...
Lion and tigers and bears, oh my!?!? Not exactly, but it might as well be ... and it's even more over the top. (Or, should I say, the top and bottom of the world???) So, how about: (sea) lions and bears (polar and brown) and penguins (in numbers that are, well, multitudinous ... nay, legion) and walruses and herring and whales (including killer whales) and ... narwhals!!!! Yes, narwhals, and not one or two of 'em, either!
So many thoughts - about this unique piece of work:
Nicklen is a master, and his photography is top notch. Add to that the print quality (and the size), and you're confronted with a massive collection of (extremely) large-scale eye candy. And Nicklen goes and stays and lives and dives in places that you and I will probably never go. (Nor will you and I take the risks he takes.) Check him out on Instagram at @paulnicklen - you won't be disappointed.
Each photograph is beautiful on its own. As a collection, it can almost be overwhelming. I expect everyone will choose different favorites, depending upon the types of animals or landscapes that resonate with them, preferences for color or monochrome, or ... I dunno ... close-ups versus action shots, etc. The collection is as diverse as it is epically ... well, big.
The book, however, is not without its downsides: it's (very) expensive (but, if you ever see/hold a copy, you'll see why - the print quality is stunning, and the archival paper - in both clarity and weight - exudes longevity rather than thrift); it's (extremely) heavy - indeed, even holding/reading it in your lap requires some amount of effort; it's humongous - it's very much a coffee table (or, I dunno, library table) book.... Given the quality of the photos (most of which span two pages) and the book printing .. and the cost, I'm (slightly) surprised that the book doesn't include lie-flat pages (kind of like a wedding album), but you can't have everything. And good luck getting your hands on a copy: I pre-ordered mine for a pre-Xmas delivery, later received a notice that it would come after the first of the calendar year, and ultimately received mine in mid-March. (Yeah, it was a little frustrating, but it was worth the wait.)
Also, there not much (OK, there's surprisingly little) text - enough to provide a (very) little background and to offer a (surprisingly neutral) conservation message ... but no real call to arms or suggestions for concrete action (indeed, there's not even the low hanging fruit of ... contact your legislative representative ... or donate to/support this cause or ... do this or don't do that ... or ...) And, apparently, this is a photo book for viewers/readers as opposed to, say, photographers - indeed, the books is entirely devoid of information describing Nicklen's photography (or diving or survival/camping) gear or methodology or, well, you get the idea....
Nicklen is pretty clear ... in his social media presence, in photography magazine interviews, and, of course, in the book ... that the book was a labor of love (and that shows) and his ultimate aspiration was to inspire conservation and action on climate change ... preserving the ice that sustains so much of the world's ice, upon which so many of our ecosystems and food chains depend.... On that score, this reader is glad that he's read some of those interviews which (somewhat strangely) were somewhat more informative than the book itself. Granted, that means that the the text doesn't distract from the visual feast that the photos provide, so, maybe it was intentional.
My bottom line: if you have a chance to view (let alone own) the book, take advantage. It's a remarkable career achievement, and it deserves the acclaim that it's received to date (and I expect will continue to receive).
January 9, 2019
I received this magnificent book as a gift and, little did the person who gifted it to me realize how very much I was coveting the possibility of owning this beautiful work of art.
Although this is a photographic art book, it is by no means fluff or without literary merit. There is a strong message conveyed both in the text and the spectacular images. Paul Nicklen wishes that by sharing his life's work in the Arctic and Antarctica that we will see what we gain to lose if we do not share in taking steps -- small or significant -- towards protecting these valuable ends of the globe.
The book is divided between the Arctic and Antarctica. Paul begins by sharing his childhood and how he came to be a National Geographic photographer as well as his passion for these regions. He also talks about some of the key experiences he has had. He talks about these fragile landscapes and that it's not too late, if we collectively work towards preserving the sea ice.
As he says himself, "I am dedicating my life to being a bridge between the majesty of the Polar Regions and you." He invites the reader/viewer into his world through his powerful photographs.
In the second section on Antarctica he details further about his experiences with all forms of life in Antarctica and how they are also interconnected. He certainly opened my eyes to some things I had taken for granted and now some of the purchases I make, I will be giving myself a check before making certain decisions. His message always focuses on hopefulness and the positive.
Before leaving you to view the second half of the book, Paul Nicklen leaves you with his message, "My wish is that the awe-inspired images and stories within the pages of Born to Ice will help you to also fall in love, as I have, with the special magic of the Polar Regions. My greatest desire is that together, as humans who have real power to make a difference, we can commit to keeping these magnificent places sacred."
It is written in English, French, and German within this one book.
His photographs will certainly give you a sense of awe. His stories will clothe that sense of awe.
Highly recommended whether for yourself or as a special gift.
Although this is a photographic art book, it is by no means fluff or without literary merit. There is a strong message conveyed both in the text and the spectacular images. Paul Nicklen wishes that by sharing his life's work in the Arctic and Antarctica that we will see what we gain to lose if we do not share in taking steps -- small or significant -- towards protecting these valuable ends of the globe.
The book is divided between the Arctic and Antarctica. Paul begins by sharing his childhood and how he came to be a National Geographic photographer as well as his passion for these regions. He also talks about some of the key experiences he has had. He talks about these fragile landscapes and that it's not too late, if we collectively work towards preserving the sea ice.
As he says himself, "I am dedicating my life to being a bridge between the majesty of the Polar Regions and you." He invites the reader/viewer into his world through his powerful photographs.
In the second section on Antarctica he details further about his experiences with all forms of life in Antarctica and how they are also interconnected. He certainly opened my eyes to some things I had taken for granted and now some of the purchases I make, I will be giving myself a check before making certain decisions. His message always focuses on hopefulness and the positive.
Before leaving you to view the second half of the book, Paul Nicklen leaves you with his message, "My wish is that the awe-inspired images and stories within the pages of Born to Ice will help you to also fall in love, as I have, with the special magic of the Polar Regions. My greatest desire is that together, as humans who have real power to make a difference, we can commit to keeping these magnificent places sacred."
It is written in English, French, and German within this one book.
His photographs will certainly give you a sense of awe. His stories will clothe that sense of awe.
Highly recommended whether for yourself or as a special gift.
March 23, 2019
Absolutely amazing animal photography blown up so you can see every fly's wing and every water droplet. The second half was a bit penguin heavy for my liking, but highly recommend all the same.
March 17, 2019
Most beautiful book I have ever opened
March 24, 2019
5.0
Absolutely beautiful!
Absolutely beautiful!
June 14, 2021
“Born to Ice showcases the life’s work of an artist whose love for the landscape, and each animal in it, is so palpable that emotion echoes throughout every image,” writes Leonardo di Caprio who collaborates with Paul to save the environment.
Paul is a Canadian photographer, marine biologist, and conservationist with over 30 awards for photojournalism.
This book is the culmination of Paul’s 25 years of work in the most frigid and desolate places on earth.
Paul endures conditions not fit for humans just to capture breathtaking panoramas and wildlife close-ups. He dives with his equipment under arctic ice and camps in a blizzard!
In 178 photos, we see animals in their natural habitat—penguins, polar and grizzly bears, narwhals, humpback and beluga whales, walruses, and different seals (leopard and elephant).
I love the bear peeking into Paul’s cabin and the leaping penguin shown here.
Paul takes us where we cannot go so we can marvel at nature’s beauty.
“To witness the Arctic and Antarctica through Paul Nicklen’s lens is to experience hope in action,” writes Leonardo di Caprio.
Enjoy the snow before it all disappears.
@IvyDigest
Paul is a Canadian photographer, marine biologist, and conservationist with over 30 awards for photojournalism.
This book is the culmination of Paul’s 25 years of work in the most frigid and desolate places on earth.
Paul endures conditions not fit for humans just to capture breathtaking panoramas and wildlife close-ups. He dives with his equipment under arctic ice and camps in a blizzard!
In 178 photos, we see animals in their natural habitat—penguins, polar and grizzly bears, narwhals, humpback and beluga whales, walruses, and different seals (leopard and elephant).
I love the bear peeking into Paul’s cabin and the leaping penguin shown here.
Paul takes us where we cannot go so we can marvel at nature’s beauty.
“To witness the Arctic and Antarctica through Paul Nicklen’s lens is to experience hope in action,” writes Leonardo di Caprio.
Enjoy the snow before it all disappears.
@IvyDigest
November 23, 2025
Classic coffee table book to reread and look through many times over. The book is massive and heavy, huge photos spread over two pages. Stunning pictures of everything you can imagine in colder climates. Any photography lover will appreciate this book! My personal favorites are of the sled dogs and bears, just beautiful photography.
January 19, 2026
Wow, such incredible pictures and moments of time captured. Some of the landscapes were amazing, and then I realized, oh there’s an animal in this shot, such scale! The behind the scenes photos at the end were great too!
February 7, 2019
Amazing ❤️
September 23, 2019
Fotografías alucinantes del ártico
January 24, 2020
Las fotografías parecen estar vivas. Increíble recopilatorio
April 28, 2020
Incredible photos and even more incredible narrative from Paul Nicklen. Very inspirational.
October 22, 2020
I'm in love
November 1, 2021
Wonderful, just but it.
December 24, 2021
Utterly breathtaking
July 2, 2022
Awesome photographs!
September 18, 2025
Stunningly beautiful photography in a large format. I read it aboard the Viking Octantis expedition ship in the Labrador Sea near Greenland.
December 18, 2019
Love it
So beautiful
So beautiful
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews