Born To Be Free by Timothy Poulton

Born To Be Free by Timothy Poulton

Somewhere on the Antarctic Peninsula People who have toured Antarctica describe it as a life-changing experience — an unspoiled continent unlike any other. There is no place on Earth like Antarctica, what makes it so unique is that there is so little evidence of human habitation or impact on the landscape. It feels like you’re on another planet, a planet where no humans have lived, that is dominated by only the forces of weather and wildlife. My favorite memory is a zodiac ride amongst the icebergs, having penguins chilling on the ice, metres from the boat. Looking down into the water and seeing leopard seals peering curiously upward, trying to make sense of what this foreign object was gliding on the mirrored water above. Of course, the thousands of penguins at the landing sites, toddling over to poke and prod at my camera bag — looking for snacks? Trying to check out if it would make a suitable mating partner? I have to admit I was very frustrated being stuck on the ship during golden hour, stunning landscapes just out of reach. My only solace from the ship’s patrons was during the feeding frenzy below deck I’d make my way to the stern, capturing massive peaks in the distance with an Albatross as my sidekick floating in the fierce winds.

Timothy Poulton: Photos