Stefano Unterthiner

Artist Bio

Stefano Unterthiner was born in Aosta Valley (Italy) in 1970 and took up photography at the age of 17. After taking his first degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Turin (Italy), he obtained a Ph.D. in zoology at Aberdeen University (Scotland). During his years of study, Stefano never stopped taking photographs around the world and on his mountains,the Italian Alps. In 2000, when he received the Ph.D., he began the career as professional wildlife photographer and writer; few months later, one of his works won the prestigious “Mario Pastore” prize for best young environmental journalist. Stefano is the authors of five photographic books, he’s a regular prize-winner in the international BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, and his work is featured internationally in magazines such as: National Geographic, GEO, BBC Wildlife, Terre Sauvage, Animan, Airone.

Stefano travels regularly around the world in search of new subject for his photographic stories. He specialises in trying to tell an animal’s life story, which brings him close to a particular species for long period. Most of all, Stefano has a strong commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental issues: he is particularly interested in the interaction between man and nature. In September 2004, Stefano received the “Premio Nazionale di Ecologia Luigiano d’oro”, a prize awarded every year to Italians who distinguish themselves in their efforts regarding the preservation of nature. Stefano received this important award for his work on endangered wildlife. In March 2007, Stefano become a member of the ILCP, the International League of Conservation Photographers.

Stefano Unterthiner’s Website