The aerial photography project Earth from Above cataloged the planet's diverse landscapes through thousands of images taken from helicopters and hot-air balloons. Published in 1999, the book sold more than three million copies and was translated into 24 languages, establishing Yann Arthus-Bertrand as a significant figure in modern environmental photography and advocacy.
Early Career and Kenya
Born in Paris in 1946, Arthus-Bertrand initially worked as an assistant director and actor in the film industry. In 1967, he left acting to manage the Château de Saint Augustin wildlife park. Nine years later, he moved to Kenya with his wife, Anne, spending three years in the Masai Mara National Reserve documenting the social behavior of lions.
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After returning to France in 1981, he worked as a journalist and photographer for publications including Paris Match and GEO. His assignments included covering the Paris-Dakar rallies and the French Open at Roland Garros. In 1991, he established the Altitude Agency, the first press agency specialized in aerial imagery, which eventually curated over 500,000 photographs.
Environmental Advocacy
In 2005, he founded the organization GoodPlanet and launched the Action Carbone program to offset carbon emissions resulting from his aerial transport. His film work, such as Home, released in 2009, sought to visualize global ecological challenges. He remains active in environmental awareness through initiatives like the school poster program and the international exhibition 6 billion Others.
Recognition and Awards
Arthus-Bertrand is a member of the Académie des beaux-arts and holds the title of Peintre de la Marine. His honors include the Commander of the Legion of Honour, awarded in 2020, and the Commander of the National Order of Merit, received in 2016. He was also designated a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme in 2009.
Fast facts
- Born: 1946, Paris
- Primary occupations: Photographer, film director, environmentalist
- Notable book: Earth from Above (1999)
- Notable film: Home (2009)
- Founded: Altitude Agency (1991)
- Founded: GoodPlanet (2005)
- Award: Knight of the Legion of Honour (2001)
- Member of: Académie des beaux-arts
Questions readers ask
What is the primary focus of Yann Arthus-Bertrand's environmental organization?
His organization, GoodPlanet, focuses on offsetting carbon emissions, promoting sustainable development, and distributing environmental educational materials.
How did he start his photography career?
He began his photography career while living among the Maasai in the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, where he documented lions.
Achievements
- Officer of the Legion of Honour — 2009
- Officer of the National Order of Merit — 2008
- Officer of the Order of Agricultural Merit
- Cherry Kearton Medal and Award — 2013
- Commander of the National Order of Merit — 2016
- Notable work: Home
- Notable work: Earth from Above
- Notable work: Earth from Above
- Movement: environmentalism
