PhotoPlus Expo Presents "A Force for Nature" Keynote Presentation with Photo Icons Art Wolfe, Frans Lanting, and Thomas Mangelsen

NEW YORK, Oct. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo will present a special keynote presentation titled, "A Force for Nature," on Saturday, October 29 from 12:00 noon -- 1:00 p.m. at the Javits Convention Center.  For the first time ever, three of the world's most acclaimed nature and outdoor photographers come together on stage to share images and insights about the power of photography to shape ideas about our natural world.  Sponsored by Epson and Manfrotto / Gitzo, the keynote presentation is open to all registered PhotoPlus Expo attendees but space is limited.  Registration to attend PhotoPlus Expo is free.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111007/NY82382 )

The keynote will feature visual presentations by world-renowned and award-winning nature photographers Frans Lanting, Thomas Mangelsen, and Art Wolfe, followed by a live discussion moderated by photo industry expert Patrick Donehue.  The photographers will answer audience questions as well as questions submitted by email to [email protected].

"PhotoPlus Expo is always exploring ways to create unique learning opportunities where attendees will experience something they simply can't find anywhere else," explains Jeff McQuilkin, Director - PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo.  "The ability to see, listen and learn from three of the most celebrated nature photographers in the world certainly helps us deliver that experience."

Frans Lanting

In the pursuit of his work, Frans Lanting has lived in trees with wild macaws, camped with giant tortoises inside a volcanic crater, and documented never-before-photographed wildlife and tribal traditions in Madagascar.  The Dutch-born, California-based photographer has traveled to Botswana's Okavango Delta, the rain forests of Borneo and the home of emperor penguins in Antarctica.

The result of his efforts is a startling collection of some of the most beautiful moments ever captured of nature.  His photographs have also brought much-needed attention to endangered species and ecological crises throughout the world and in 2001, HRH Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands inducted Lanting as a Knight in the Royal Order of the Golden Ark, the country's highest conservation honor -- just one of many honors he has received throughout his illustrious career.

Thomas Mangelsen

With his formative years spent along the banks of the Platte River in Nebraska hunting and fishing, Tom Mangelsen's understanding of the natural world stems from a childhood rich in outdoor adventures.  Handcrafting his first frames with his brother David in their garage, he opened his first gallery in Jackson, Wyoming in 1978, featuring signed, limited edition prints in the tradition of wildlife artists such as Owen Gromme, an early mentor.

Tom's photos are available through numerous galleries throughout the U.S.  In 1994, he was named "Wildlife Photographer of the Year" by the BBC and the North American Nature Photographer's "Outstanding Nature Photographer of the Year" in 2000.  His photographs have illustrated more than twenty books for children and young adults and have been published in Audubon, National Geographic, National Wildlife, and many others.  Tom has published four fine art books including "The Natural World," based exclusively on his work in the panoramic format.

Art Wolfe

Art Wolfe has worked on every continent and in hundreds of locations. His stunning images interpret and record the world's fast-disappearing wildlife, landscapes and native cultures, and are a lasting inspiration to those who seek to preserve them all.  Wolfe's photographs are recognized throughout the world for their mastery of color, composition and perspective and can be seen in any of his 60 books, including the award-winning Vanishing Act, The High Himalaya, Water: Worlds between Heaven & Earth, Tribes, as well as numerous children's titles.

About PDN

PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo

Designed for professionals in the photographic and imaging industries, PhotoPlus Expo showcases the latest advances in photography. Held annually at the Javits Convention Center, attendees have the opportunity to explore an inspiring array of photography and imaging products and services - everything from image capture and color management to retouching and storage - all from the industry's leading manufacturers.  The show also offers over 115 photography and imaging seminars and hands-on labs taught by world-renowned experts with a focus on cutting-edge innovations in digital imaging products and techniques.

About WPPI

Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), a division of Nielsen Photo Group, is an organization that serves the educational and business needs of wedding and portrait photographers. WPPI is a professional organization that exists to help member photographers by providing them with exclusive information, programs and professional services to assist with their photographic artistry and business needs. WPPI routinely supplies its members with new benefits and valuable industry information enabling them to succeed in today's active photo market business.

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