Since the beginning of human civilization, we have been fascinated by the terrifying beauty of the volcano. With their impressive yet volatile nature, most people are content with viewing them from afar. Instead, they rely on archival footage of eruptions, lava flows or ash plumes that can be appreciated from the comfort of their own homes. But who are the ones capturing these images?

Volcanologists are geologists who specifically focus on volcanoes, frequently visiting them to observe their activity, take samples, and capture images of them. The image is essential to volcanologists, allowing them to freeze the ephemerality of volcanic activity in a moment where it can be more effectively studied. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft made a career out of creating such images. Their joint dedication to volcanology and each other led them across the globe, chasing the elusive behaviour of volcanoes. The Kraffts were well-known within the community and were notable for their books, films and TV appearances that sought to share their knowledge and passion with the world.

Their freelance expeditions gave us some of the most intimately stunning and hypnotic photography of natural geological wonders that have been used in textbooks and science videos worldwide. While admiring this beauty however, they also witnessed first-hand the immense power that volcanoes hold over their surroundings. The Kraffts experienced the devastation of the pyroclastic flow and the danger it poses to life. They strongly advocated for local authorities to seriously heed the warnings of volcanologists and to take proper action to protect civilians.

On the 3^rd June 1991, Mount Unzen erupted in Japan, taking the lives of 37 people, including Katia and Maurice Krafft. They had died pursuing their one true love: volcanoes.

Because of the dedicated work of Maurice, Katia and their peers, there is more education about the hazards of volcanic activity, and responses to protect the local communities are much swifter and more effective. The Centre for the Study of Active Volcanoes in Hilo, Hawaii, have established a memorial fund in the Krafft’s name which collects donations that continue their mission of education. Their contributions to the field of volcanology are still evident to this day.

The precious images created by Maurice and Katia Krafft also remain.

This very footage has been repurposed by director Sara Dosa in the award-winning 2022 documentary Fire of Love. Combined with skilful editing, captivating narration and an awe-inspiring soundtrack, the hundreds of hours of gorgeous geological film by the Kraffts have been compiled into an accessible feature-length. The film honours their legacy, recalling their story of volcanic passion to a new generation of audiences, ensuring that Maurice, Katia and the work they created- will never be forgotten.

Image: https://volcano.si.edu/gallery/photos/GVP-00300.jpg