Gerd Ludwig

Born in Alsfeld, Germany, Gerd Ludwig interrupted his studies in German literature, political science, and physical education at the University of Marburg to travel in Scandinavia and North America, supporting his adventures with a variety of odd jobs. He returned to Germany to graduate with a degree in Photo Design under Professor Otto Steinert at the Folkwangschule/University of Essen. The following year he co-founded VISUM, Germany's first photographer-owned agency and began shooting for publications such as Geo, Stern, Spiegel, Fortune, Time, and Life, as well as for advertising campaigns.

In the early 90's, Gerd was signed as a contract photographer for National Geographic Magazine, focusing on the social and economic changes in Germany and Eastern Europe. This work resulted in the publication of his book, Broken Empire: After the Fall of the USSR, a ten-year retrospective published by National Geographic in English, German, and Korean.

Now based in Los Angeles, Gerd has traveled to over 70 countries across the globe, won numerous photographic awards, and is a veteran of the renowned A Day in the Life book series. While he continues to work primarily for National Geographic Magazine he also occasionally shoots advertising.

Gerd Ludwig exhibits his work at prestigious galleries internationally and, between assignments, lectures at universities and photographic workshops throughout the United States and Europe.