STREIFZUG COVER STORY
July 2010

As a result of Gerd Ludwig's lecture presentation during the 1. Alsfelder Kulturage (see news item below) Streifzug magazine publishes a cover story on Gerd Ludwig's life and career as a documentary photographer in it's August 2010 edition. Streifzug magazine is a monthly supplement of the Hessian newspaper Giessener-Allgemeine, publishing interviews and stories about culture, sports, and trends. The 5-page article and interview concentrates on Gerd's work in the former Soviet Union, including the Chernobyl zone, and explores how his Hessian roots influence his work as the only German photographer in the core team at National Geographic USA.

Read the article at: http://www.giessener-allgemeine.de/media/streifzug/2010_07/

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PDN PHOTO ANNUAL 2010 AWARDS
June 2010

PDN's Photo Annual 2010 honors Gerd Ludwig for best Photojournalism/Documentary for his feature on the Russian Orthodox Church. The feature, published as "Soul of Russia" in National Geographic's April 2009 issue, explores the reemergence of the Russian Orthodox Church after being driven underground by Soviet rule for nearly 80 years.

View the Winner's Gallery at: http://www.pdngallery.com/contests/photoannual/2010/

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ALSFELDER KULTURTAGE
June 2010

Ranging from talks by scientists, artists and historians, to the staging of musicals and the display of art exhibits, the 1.Alsfelder Kulturtage festival in Alsfeld, Germany presents a wide palette of cultural affairs. As part of the event, Gerd Ludwig returns to his birthplace to give a lecture presentation, titled "Die Seele berühren" (Touching the Soul). The lecture, moderated by Axel Pries, takes place in the Kino-Center Alsfeld on June 6, 2010 at 4pm. The event is preceded by Gerd Ludwig and Prof. Peter Gruss, President of Germany’s Max Planck Society, signing the Golden Book of the town in the presence of Alsfeld's Mayor Ralf Becker.

For more information, please visit: http://www.alsfelder-kulturtage.de

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ZINGST HORIZONTE
May / June 2010

Merely three years after its inception, the Horizonte photo festival in Zingst, Germany has already become a major player in the German field of photography. A focal point of this year's festival is Gerd Ludwig's exhibition of landscapes, "Peace on Earth or Earth to Pieces". The exhibition underlines the magical beauty and quiet dignity of nature, but includes images of destroyed landscapes, which appear irritatingly attractive, to provoke introspection. This exhibition of 16 large format prints takes place at the Galerie Villa Ruh in Zingst, Germany, from May 29 through August 29, 2010. As part of the Zingst Horizonte festival, Gerd Ludwig also teaches a 3-day workshop,"'Mensch und Landschaft" (People and Landscapes) and holds a lecture-presentation titled "Die Seele berühren" (Touching the Soul). Gerd will also participate in several panel discussions throughout the festival week.

For more information, please visit http://www.horizonte-zingst.de

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RUSSLAND EXHIBIT IN SCHLESWIG
April 2010

Gerd Ludwig’s focus on the socio-economic changes following the dissolution of the Soviet Bloc in 1991 resulted in his book and exhibit, Broken Empire: After the Fall of the USSR, a ten-year retrospective published by National Geographic in December of 2001.

Looking back at this first decade of warp-speed Russian economic transformation, marked by glittering opportunity, poignant suffering, bold aspirations and brutal exploitation, the Museum in Schleswig, Germany shows Gerd’s exhibit Russland – Eine Weltmacht im Wandel.

April 16. to June 20, 2010. Stadtmuseum Schleswig, Friedrichstraße 9-11, 24837 Schleswig, Germany.

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PRESENTAION IN OMAHA
April 2010

The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) is dedicated to the advancement of visual journalism, its creation, practice, training, editing and distribution, in all news media and works to promote its role as a vital public service.

NPPA’s Nebraska chapter is holding its annual 2010 seminar in Omaha, Nebraska. On Sunday, April 11 at 9:30 A.M. Gerd Ludwig is giving a lecture presentation at the Hixson-Lied building. The lecture is sponsored by Canon USA.

For more information: http://nebraskanewsphotographers.com/

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LECTURE PRESENTATION AT THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY
April 2010

Gerd Ludwig’s photography captures beautifully all the complexities of life. Whether documenting children born with severe birth defects or the sweetness of an embrace, his photography resonates with the full scale of human emotion.

In his lecture presentation “A Great Photograph Touches the Soul and Broadens the Mind” in Lexington, Kentucky at the Briggs Theatre in the Fine Arts Building on the university campus on Wednesday, April 7, Gerd Ludwig’s lecture presentation will span his life’s work, from his art school days in Germany to recently published and unpublished images of Russia’s warp-speed transformation from communism to runaway capitalism.

Sponsored by Canon USA

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INSTITUTE ARTISTS IN VISURA MAGAZINE
February 2010

Visura Magazine is an online publication that features personal projects chosen by artists themselves. It is an impressive new platform for photography that combines the quiet feel of traditional magazine layout with the ease of a web photo gallery. Texts that accompany projects are edited through a collaborative process with the artists. It is Visura’s stated goal to be true to the artists’ voices. Visura Magazine, issue 8 is entirely dedicated to the photographers of Institute for Artist Management.

Fore more information go to: http://www.visuramagazine.com/issue-8.html

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FEATURE ON HR3 – HESSENSCHAU
February 2010

In addition to the various interviews and online photo galleries published during his extended stay in Hesse (see below: Media Blitz in Germany), the German television channel hr3 runs a four-minute-long feature on Gerd Ludwig and his photographic work.

The feature named “Star-Fotograf Gerd Ludwig” airs on the daily evening news program Hessenschau on February 19, 2010.

To view the feature go to: http://www.hr-online.de

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THE DIGITAL DECISIVE MOMENT IN DIGITAL PHOTO PRO
January/February 2010

Documentary photography and photojournalism is entering an era of new technological advances where low noise and high ISO digital capture are defining new aesthetics in low light photography. An article published in Digital Photo Pro titled “ The Digital Decisive Moment” is centered around quotes by Gerd Ludwig and uses his photographs from “Moscow Never Sleeps” to exemplify this point.

For more information go to: http://www.digitalphotopro.com/technique/camera-technique/the-digital-decisive-moment.html

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MEDIA BLITZ IN GERMANY
January 2010

During Gerd Ludwig’s extended stay in Germany, several regional and national media outlets publish interviews and online photo galleries, focusing on Gerd’s career, his in-depth work in Russia and the Former Soviet Union, his latest project "Moscow Never Sleeps", and his trip to Eritrea with tennis star Steffi Graf.

For more information go to:

http://www.stern.de/fotografie/moskauer-naechte-zwischen-millionaersmesse-und-plattenbau-1537496.html

http://www.sueddeutsche.de/kultur/182/501437/text/

http://www.giessener-allgemeine.de/Home/Nachrichten/Hessen/Vom-Tellerwaescher-zum-Starfotografen-_arid,160466_regid,1_puid,1_pageid,11.html

http://www.lauterbacher-anzeiger.de/lokales/vogelsbergkreis/alsfeld/8348325.htm

http://www.oberhessische-zeitung.de/lokales/alsfeld/8122334.htm

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INSTITUTE FOR ARTIST MANAGEMENT – IAM
December 2009

Gerd Ludwig is now represented internationally by INSTITUTE for Artist Management (IAM), an artist management and a multi-platform production company for leading visual artists and storytellers from the world of photography and documentary filmmaking. Based in Los Angeles, New York and London, INSTITUTE is dedicated to support its artists, and their key partners around the world to accomplish their personal visions and professional goals.

Like Gerd, INSTITUTE's artists, Jodi Bieber, Rena Effendi, Lauren Greenfield, Rob Hornstra, Nadav Kander, Gillian Laub, James Longley, Joshua Lutz, Amanda Micheli, Richard Mosse, Zed Nelson, Jehad Nga, Simon Norfolk, James Pomerantz and Paul Shambroom, are engaged in important long-term, creative projects, which require multiple levels of international partnerships, and involve a wide variety of funding entities, book publishers, fine art galleries, media companies, cultural institutions and foundations.

INSTITUTE is committed to bringing its expertise and understanding of the international media market, to its commercial and editorial clients. Given the reality of the print, television, web and mobile paradigm that we all live in, the client side of the equation is increasingly interested in integrated multi-platform content solutions.

From its directors who represent the finest in the documentary filmmaking tradition, to its photographers who rank amongst the most talented and important visual artists of our time, INSTITUTE artists are dedicated to produce bodies of work that offer profoundly illuminating insights into the human condition.

INSTITUTE represents Gerd Ludwig and his work worldwide with the exception of existing work in the German language market, which is handled by VISUM.

For more information go to www.instituteartistmanagement.com

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REPORTAGE WORKSHOP IN HAMBURG
January 2010

In association with FREELENS, Germany’s preeminent organization of photojournalists, Gerd Ludwig will be teaching two sessions of his workshop, “Die Reportage” in January 2010 at FREELENS Media GmbH, Steinhöft 5 in Hamburg, Germany. Each of these intensive 6-day courses focuses on the logistical, technical, and ethical aspects of developing long-term stories - balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography.

For more information go to: www.freelens.com/workshops

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MOSCOW NEVER SLEEPS EXHIBITION IN HAMBURG
January 2010

For decades Moscow was regarded as a capital city devoid of vibrancy, self-expression and individualistic avenues. Not any more. Boasting more millionaires than any other city in the world, Moscow is now an international hotspot, making metropolises like New York City, Paris, and London glow pale by comparison. With its extravagant all-night discos, opulent restaurants, and chic designer boutiques, Moscow is fast becoming the jet set’s favorite place to see and be seen. In the shadow of the boom, Moscow’s nights are dominated by the disenfranchised: a growing number of homeless, struggling for diminishing aid; “gastarbeiters” from former Soviet Bloc countries looking for a slice of the pie; lonely elderly dying without anybody taking notice; and the helpless militia desperately trying to take charge in the turmoil.

Presented in an exhibition at the gallery of FREELENS, Germany’s preeminent organization of photojournalists and documentary photographers, this work started as an assignment for National Geographic Magazine and was completed with a grant from VG Bild Kunst/Kulturwerk.

The exhibit takes place January 22 through March 3, 2010 at the FREELENS Galerie, Steinhöft 5 in Hamburg, Germany. Opening reception: Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 7 p.m.

For more information about the exhibit: http://www.freelens.com/galerie

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LECTURE AT BROOKS INSTITUTE OF PHOTOGRAPHY IN VENTURA
November 2009

Capturing quality images at extremely high ISOs is only one of digital technology’s latest advances, but it is rapidly redefining photojournalism today. Gerd Ludwig discusses his approach to digital capture in low light photography in his lecture, “Working Digitally in Low Light”, at Brooks Institute of Photography. The presentation takes place at the Iron Horse sound stage, 5301 North Ventura Ave, Ventura, CA 93001 at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, November 10, 2009. It is open to the general public and attendance is free. Sponsored by Canon USA

For more information on Brooks Institute: www.brooks.edu

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EARTH ALERT EXHIBIT IN LONDON
October-November 2009

In recent years, it has become indisputable that climate change poses a severe threat to prosperity and security around the world. Curated by award winning British photo editor, Colin Jacobson, and Stephanie Seungmin Kim of the Korean Cultural Center UK, the exhibition “Earth Alert: A Photographic Response To Climate Change” takes place at the Korean Cultural Center, Trafalgar Square, London. The images encourage viewers to reflect upon their personal impact on the environment and encourage them to reduce their own carbon footprint. With more than twenty photographs, Gerd Ludwig is the main contributor to the exhibit, which runs from October 13 to November 28, 2009.

For more information about the Korean Cultural Center: http://london.korean-culture.org/welcome.do

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LECTURE AT THE ANNENBERG SPACE FOR PHOTOGRAHY IN LOS ANGELES
October 2009

The Annenberg Space for Photography in Los Angeles is an entirely new cultural destination dedicated to photography in an intimate environment. As part of the IRIS Nights lecture series, in his presentation ‘Russia - From Broken Empire to Wild, Wild East’, Gerd Ludwig will share published and unpublished images of Russia’s warp-speed transformation from communism to runaway capitalism – marked by bold aspirations, poignant suffering, and glittering opportunity; the recent rush for Siberia’s black gold; the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church; and his latest, stunning work from Moscow At Night.

For more information about the Annenberg Space For Photography: http://www.annenbergspaceforphotography.org

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BARNSTORM XXII
October 2009

Gerd Ludwig returns to the 2009 Eddie Adams Workshop in Jeffersonville, NY, October 9-12 for the fifth time as a Team Leader. He is joined again this year by National Geographic Magazine’s Director of Photography, David Griffin, for this intensive four-day workshop pairing top professionals in photojournalism with 100 carefully selected students. Chosen solely on the merit of their portfolios, participants are provided with a tuition free forum to learn techniques and exchange ideas and philosophies with established professionals in the field of photojournalism and documentary photography.

For more information about Barnstorm XXII go to: www.eddieadamsworkshop.com/

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PHOTOPLUS EXPO IN NEW YORK
October 2009

Capturing quality images at extremely high ISOs is only one of digital technology’s latest advances, but it is rapidly redefining photojournalism today. Gerd Ludwig discusses the varied advantages of digital technology in his seminar, Working Digitally in the Dark, at PhotoPlus Expo in New York City. Sponsored by CanonUSA, the 2-hour seminar takes place at Jacob Javitt’s Convention Center from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Thursday, October 22.

For more information about the PhotoPlus Expo: http://pp.goexposoftware.com/2009/goExpo/user/listSeminars.php?ci=9

Gerd also participates in the panel discussion “Facets of the Night: Conjuring Atmosphere in Low Light Environments” moderated by Jill Waterman. Designed to improve your skill at creating images after dark, this three-hour session features an accomplished group of photographers, whose varied styles of night and low-light shooting has brought them both technical mastery and commercial success. The panel takes place at Jacob Javitt’s Convention Center from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Friday, October 23. Sponsored by PDN

For more information: http://pp.goexposoftware.com/2009/goExpo/user/listSeminars.php?ci=40

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CHERNOBYL EXHIBIT IN BERLIN, GERMANY
September-October 2009

The loftgalerie Peter Gregor in Berlin, Germany presents the exhibition, “Tschernobyl – Leben mit einer Tragödie” (Chernobyl – Living with a Tragedy). In a mind-boggling exhibit of more than 60 photographs, Gerd Ludwig and German photographer Rüdiger Lubricht present their impressions of Chernobyl’s aftermath. The exhibition takes place September 18 through October 30, 2009 at the loftgalerie Peter Gregor in Berlin, Germany. On opening night (September 18, 2009 at 7 p.m.) Prof. Rolf Nobel hosts an in-depth conversation with Rüdiger and Gerd.

For more information about the loftgalerie Peter Gregor: http://www.loftgalerie.de/index.htm

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MOSCOW AT NIGHT IN DIGITAL PHOTO PRO
July/August 2009

Titled "What Would Lenin Do?" Digital Photo Pro's in depth article on Gerd Ludwig’s “Moscow Never Sleeps” coverage for National Geographic Magazine explores the advantages of digital photography and the way the improved high ISO capabilities of digital cameras is transforming low light photography.

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EARTH ALERT EXHIBIT IN SEOUL, KOREA
June 2009

The “Earth Alert” exhibition presents a photographic response to global climate change. By incorporating both the physical evidence of climate change and the human cost, this exhibition encourages a broader audience to participate in the debate about global warming. Curated by award winning British photo editor, Colin Jacobson, and Stephanie Seungmin Kim of the Korean Cultural Center UK, the exhibition takes place June 19- August 23, 2009 at the Daelim Contemporary Art Museum, Seoul, Korea. . With more than twenty photographs, Gerd Ludwig is the main contributor to the exhibit.

For more information about the exhibit at the Daelim Contemporary Art Museum: http://www.daelimmuseum.org/e_exhibition/e_now_view.jsp

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NEW YORK PHOTO FESTIVAL
May 2009

Founded by Frank Evers and Daniel Power, The New York Photo Festival is a world-class photo festival dedicated to the future of contemporary photography.

During the 2009 event, the "New Documentations" Special Screening shines a spotlight on powerful new in depth work by leading photographers, examining themes through documentary photography that is informed by personal, self-aware or a critical perspective.

"New Documentations" provides a riveting and insightful point of view on issues, subjects and stories, which are both new and familiar to the photographer and the viewer. It is about us, our world, and the premise that our ability to effect change comes from deep personal connections and a profound understanding of who we are.

Gerd Ludwig's work, Russia: A Phoenix Rising From the Ashes of a Broken Empire is part of the "New Documentations Screening" and he is a participant in a panel discussion moderated by ICP curator Robert Blake.

For more information go to: http://www.nyphotofestival.com/site/?p=3551

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SOUL OF RUSSIA IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE
April 2009

After being driven underground for nearly 80 years, the Russian Orthodox Church has been restored to its former splendor, again playing the integral role of Russian identity - as it had for almost a thousand years.

Millions of Russians rush to be baptized; thousands of ruined churches have been restored; young and old are embracing age-old acts of devotion and faith; priests are administering to the sick, elderly, and poor; the monastic life has returned; troubled youths in prisons and half-way houses are being proselytized - and an icy swim in the priest-blessed waters of rivers and lakes at Epiphany cleanses the soul of sins. Mother Russia has realigned herself with God, and her people are reveling in their reunion with the deeply rooted mysteries and traditons of the past.

In the April issue of National Geographic Magazine Gerd Ludwig explores the "Soul of Russia", the rich traditions of the Russian Orthodox Church, its rights of religious services, its internal structure, and its relationship to politics.

For more information go to: http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2009/04/orthodox/ludwig-photography

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DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP IN LOS ANGELES
April 2009

In association with MOPLA, Month of Photography - Los Angeles (see below), Gerd Ludwig’s workshop titled “Magazine Stories for the Documentary Photographer” is being held April 13 through April 17 at Gerd’s spacious home and office in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles. This intensive 5-day course, for photographers who want to take their editorial or personal work to the next level, focuses on the logistical, technical, and structural aspects of developing long-term stories - balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography.

After individual portfolio reviews, Gerd shares the personal methods and techniques he uses to create his own color work, such as story research; how to approach a subject and establish trust; choice of lenses, light, flash, and filters to capture mood and content; the essentials of color composition; establishing a sense of place; and other working methods of National Geographic photographers. Workshop participants will be encouraged to take professional risks to produce top quality work worthy of publication.

Workshop Fee: $950
For more information or to sign up go to: http://www.monthofphotography.com/programs/events.php - workshops

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RUSSIA- THE WILD, WILD EAST LECTURE IN LOS ANGELES
April 2009

Introduced this year for the first time by Hossein Farmani and Cat Jimenez, the Month of Photography - Los Angeles (MOPLA) is a four-week long celebration of photography, designed to inspire and invigorate the photographic community with a multitude of events (exhibitions, lectures, workshops etc).

As part of MOPLA, in his lecture presentation “Russia – the Wild, Wild East” at the Pacific Design Center on Tuesday, April 7 Gerd Ludwig shares published and unpublished images of Russia’s warp-speed transformation from communism to runaway capitalism -- marked by bold aspirations, poignant suffering, and glittering opportunity; the recent rush for Siberia’s black gold; the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church; and his latest, stunning work from Moscow At Night.
This presentation is sponsored by Canon USA as part of the Explorers of Light Lecture Series.

For more information go to: http://www.monthofphotography.com/programs/events.php#

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JAKOB DER REICHE IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GERMANY
March 2009

The Fugger family was a group of European merchants and bankers, who gained prominence during the fifteenth and sixteenth century. Eventually, these international mercantile bankers became venture capitalists, similar to the Medici in Italy. Jakob Fugger, born in 1459 was to become the most famous member of the dynasty. Often referred to as Jakob the Rich, he is considered one of the wealthiest people to have ever lived. At the height of his wealth, Fugger was able to finance both the election of Emperor Maximilian I and Charles V. The Fuggers invested in nearly everything, from the mining of silver and copper in Tyrol and Hungary to the trade with Africa, India, and the Far East; from the minting of coins to the sale of indulgences-- making them, in some views, the founders of globalization.

In a story published in National Geographic Germany's March 2009 issue, Gerd Ludwig's pictures trace the life of Jakob Fugger through locations in Southern Germany, Austria and Italy.

For more information go to: http://www.nationalgeographic.de/php/magazin/topstories/2009/03/topstory1.htm

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LECTURE PRESENTATION AT THE ART CENTER IN PASADENA
March 2009

Since 1990, Gerd Ludwig has been National Geographic's front man in the Former Soviet Union; his images of the socio-economic changes following the dissolution of the Soviet Bloc make him the world's foremost color photographer documenting this region and earned him the 2006 ‘Photographer of the Year’ Lucie Award.

In his lecture presentation “A Great Photograph Touches the Soul and Broadens the Mind” in Pasadena, CA at the Art Center College of Design’s LA Times Theatre on Thursday, March 19, Gerd Ludwig illustrates the area’s development over the last 20 years, leading up to Russia today; the effects of the recent oil boom on Western Siberia's everyday life; the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church; and the over-the-top hedonism of Moscow at Night.

This presentation is sponsored by Canon USA as part of the Explorers of Light Lecture Series.

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PACIFIC DESIGN CENTER EXHIBIT, L.A.
September 2008

The ongoing influences and visual relationship between photography and painting are explored in the exhibit, Abstraction + Perspectives, at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood, California. A selection of Gerd Ludwig's fine art photographs are shown among those of other notable photographers and painters, including Douglas Kirkland, Jim McHugh, Shane Guffogg, and David Buckingham. An all day "Preview" is open to the public on Thursday, September 25, 2008, at PDC's #B208 at 8687 Melrose Avenue, with an artists reception in the evening from 5:30pm - 8:30pm. The exhibition will run through October 9th.

For more information about the Pacific Design Center go to: http://www.thepacificdesigncenter.com/events.htm

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GEORGE EASTMAN HOUSE
October 2008

Since 1990, Gerd Ludwig has been National Geographic's front man in the Former Soviet Union; his images of the socio-economic changes following the dissolution of the Soviet Bloc have made him the world's foremost color photographer documenting this region. In his lecture presentation at the George Eastman House’s Dryden Theatre on Thursday, October 16, at 6pm, Gerd illustrates the area’s development over the last 20 years, leading up to Russia today; the effects of the recent oil boom on Western Siberia's everyday life; the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church; wild, wild east capitalism and the over-the-top hedonism of Moscow at night.

For more information about the George Eastman House: http://www.eastmanhouse.org/

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PHOTOPLUS EXPO NY
October 2008

Capturing quality images at extremely high ISOs is only one of digital technology’s latest advances, but it is rapidly redefining photojournalism today. Gerd Ludwig discusses the varied advantages of digital in his seminar, Working Digitally in the Dark, at PhotoPlus Expo in New York City. Sponsored by CanonUSA, the 2-hour seminar takes place at Jacob Javitt’s Convention Center from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Friday, October 24.

For more information about the PhotoPlus Expo: http://www.photoplusexpo.com/ppe/index.jsp

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BARNSTORM XXI
October 2008

Gerd Ludwig returns to the 2008 Eddie Adams Workshop in Jeffersonville, NY, October 10-13 for the fourth time as a Team Leader. He’s joined again this year by National Geographic Magazine’s Director of Photography, David Griffin, for this intensive four-day workshop pairing top professionals in photojournalism with 100 carefully selected students. Chosen solely on the merit of their portfolios, participants are provided with a tuition free forum in which to learn, exchange ideas, techniques and philosophies among both established and emerging professionals in the photojournalistic field.

For more information about Barnstorm XXI go to: www.eddieadamsworkshop.com/

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REPORTAGE WORKSHOP IN HAMBURG
September 2008

In association with FREELENS, Germany’s preeminent organization of photojournalists, Gerd Ludwig’s workshop, “Die Reportage” is being held September 12-17 at FREELENS Media GmbH, Steinhöft 5 in Hamburg, Germany. This intensive 6-day course focuses on the logistical, technical, and ethical aspects of developing long-term stories - balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography.

For more information go to: www.freelens.com/workshops

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MOSCOW NEVER SLEEPS IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE
August 2008

For decades Moscow was regarded as a capital city devoid of vibrancy, self-expression and individualistic avenues. Not any more. Boasting more millionaires than any other city in the world, Moscow is now an international hotspot, making metropolises like New York City, Paris, and London glow pale by comparison. With its extravagant all-night discos, opulent restaurants, and chic designer boutiques, Moscow is fast becoming the jet set’s favorite place to see and be seen.

Gerd Ludwig and writer Martin Cruz Smith explore the city’s clubs, artists, entrepreneurs, as well as the darker sides of Moscow at night, in the August issue of National Geographic Magazine.

For more information go to:http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/08/moscow-night/ludwig-photography

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WHAT MATTERS BOOK
Fall 2008

Fallout: The Enduring Tragedy of Chernobyl is the title of Gerd Ludwig’s coverage about Chernobyl’s lethal legacy, one of 18 issues of global concern highlighted in the book What Matters, created by New York Times bestselling author/editor David Elliot Cohen. The publication’s fundamental questions, “What are the essential issues of our time? What are the pictures that will spark public outrage and spur reform?” are presented through powerful stories told by the world’s foremost photojournalists, thinkers, and writers. What Matters serves as an open letter to world leaders about the issues that count, as well as a source of inspiration and information for readers, with tips on how everyone can do his/her part to make a difference.

For more information about What Matters: http://whatmatters.blog.com/

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PRIVATE PORTFOLIO REVIEWS
July 2008

Professional and emerging photographers interested in one-on-one reviews and discussions about their work may schedule an appointment for a private portfolio consultation with Gerd Ludwig in Los Angeles.

For availability and pricing go to the PROFILE section of this site, or contact review@gerdludwig.com

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SALTON SEA IN FRENCH GEO
June 2008

California’s largest and most troubled lake continues to concern environmentalists and ecologists, and fascinate artists intrigued by the bizarre. Originally published in National Geographic Magazine’s February 2005 issue, Gerd Ludwig’s story of this strange, sometimes lethal, oft maligned, oddly beautiful and downright weird lake in the Californian desert, appears in a new layout in French Geo’s May 2008 issue.

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LOOK3 MASTER TALK PRESENTATION
June 2008

Gerd Ludwig premieres his latest Russian work at the 2nd Annual LOOK3 Festival of the Photograph in Charlottesville, Virginia, (June 12 -14, 2008). This year’s festival features exhibits by Mary Ellen Mark, Joel-Peter Witkin, James Nachtwey, and Master Talks by internationally renowned photographers; Gerd’s Master Talk presentation, sponsored by CanonUSA, takes place at 12:00pm on Saturday, June 14, at Charlottesville’s historic Paramount Theatre.

For more information about LOOK3, go to: http://www.festivalofthephotograph.org/2008/index.html

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SIBERIAN OIL BOOM IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE
June 2008

Russia has experienced a staggering transformation since the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991; in less than 20 years, a society once isolated and choked by a stagnant communist economy is now experiencing unprecedented wealth. The country’s reemergence as a global power is mostly due to vast natural resources in gas and oil found predominantly in western Siberia – an estimated 7 million barrels a day worth.

On assignment for National Geographic Magazine, Gerd Ludwig explored Siberia’s once cold and foreboding Khanty-Mansyisk region to document the social, economic, and ecological effects of the oil boom and the area’s warp speed shift into the fast lane.

For more information go to: http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2008/06/siberian-oil/ludwig-photography

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PALM READING IN SOMA MAGAZINE
May 2008

As one of the world’s top photographers, SOMA Magazine interviews Gerd Ludwig for their May/June 2008 Travel Issue’s Hand Signals section, wherein a Q&A is paired with his palm reading by a former CIA agent. Past creative talents chosen by SOMA have included Errol Morris, David Bowie, Gus Van Sant, Yoko Ono, and Richard Branson.

For more information go to: http://somamagazine.com/

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BLUE PLANET RUN BOOK
April 2008

The Blue Planet Run Foundation partners with Rick Smolan/Against All Odds Productions to create the book Blue Planet Run: The Race To Provide Safe Drinking Water To The World, part of a cross media platform created by the Blue Planet Run Foundation to help raise awareness and tens of million of much needed dollars in public donations. Gerd Ludwig’s photographs are included among those of other concerned photographers covering issues involving the emerging international crisis of potable water.

For more information about the book and the Blue Planet Run Foundation: http://blueplanetrun.org/

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LECTURE AT PACIFIC NEW MEDIA, HAWAII
March 2008

Pacific New Media and the University of Hawaii at Manoa presents Soul and Meaning: Gerd Ludwig's Photography , a free public lecture/presentation sponsored by Canon USA on Saturday, March 22, 2008, 9am-1pm, at the Yukiyoshi Room (Krauss Hall 012, University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2500 Dole Street).   Gerd presents an overview of his work, focusing on the human side of the Former Soviet Union's socio-economic and political transition into modern day Russia; environmental issues internationally; his varied stories for National Geographic Magazine, and the techniques and logistics he applies in the field as a National Geographic photographer.

For more information go to: http://www.outreach.hawaii.edu/pnm/programs/2008/EVENT-EV009575L.asp

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PALM SPRINGS PHOTO FESTIVAL FINE ARE PRINT WALK
March 2008

The opening day of Southern California's 3rd annual Palm Springs Photo Festival includes the Fine Art Print Walk. Over 20 internationally renowned photographers are available to discuss their work one-on-one with festival attendees and the art loving public. Fine art prints are available for sale.   Gerd Ludwig participates in this unique group exhibit on Sunday, March 30th between 3:00pm and 6:00pm at the Karokia Pensione at 257 S Patencio Rd., Palm Springs, CA.

For more information about the Fine Art Print Walk and the Palm Springs Photo Festival go to:

http://www.palmspringsphotofestival.com/blog

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THE NUCLEAR DILEMMA EXHIBIT
February 2008

The Nuclear Dilemma Project, produced in association with The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum in Geneva, is launching a visual-communication program to illustrate the history of nuclear technology, provide tools for people to form clear perspectives on its past and present uses, and engender dialogue and research for a safer future.  In tandem with an educational outreach program, two comprehensive photographic exhibitions include work from Gerd Ludwig's ongoing exploration of nuclear pollution and Chernobyl's lethal legacy. The first exhibition opens at The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum in Geneva ( 17, Avenue de la Paix, 1202 Genève) - February 26 to July 28, 2008; the second exhibit is scheduled to run from September 9 to January 9, 2009 at the Gernika Peace Museum in Spain.

For more information about The Nuclear Dilemma go to www.nucleardilemma.org

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PILSNER URQUELL COMMERCIAL
October 2007

Gerd Ludwig's 2006 Lucie Award for International Photographer of the Year results in the creation of the documercial, "Gerd Ludwig: Journey of Discovery", for Pilsner Urquell, the International Photographer of the Year Award's primary event sponsor. The commercial length film, created by feature film director, Peter Webber (Girl With A Pearl Earring, Hannibal Rising), premieres at the 2007 Lucie Awards event at Lincoln Center's Avery Fisher Hall in New York City on October 15th.

To view the commercial, go to: http://www.pilsner-urquell.com

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EXHIBIT IN CHEMNITZ, GERMANY
October 2007

A collection of Gerd Ludwig's work is shown in the Volkshochschule Chemnitz in Germany from October 2 through December 12, 2007. The exhibit titled "Russia - A World Power In Change", is part of range of public events focused on Russian culture.

For more information about this exhibit go to: www.vhs-chemnitz.de

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EDDIE ADAMS 20TH ANNIVERSARY WORKSHOP
October 2007

2007 marks the 20th anniversary of the late Eddie Adams’ acclaimed annual photography workshop known as Barnstorm, an intense four-day gathering of the top professionals in photojournalism, along with 100 carefully selected students. Chosen solely on the merit of their portfolios, participants are provided with a tuition free forum in which to exchange ideas, techniques and philosophies among both established and emerging professionals in the photojournalistic field. An alumni of Barnstorm's 1988 and 1991 workshops, Gerd Ludwig returns as a team leader for this year’s special anniversary event, October 5-8 in Jeffersonville, NY.

For more information about Barnstorm XX go to: www.eddieadamsworkshop.com

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KINGSTON’S 20 QUESTIONS
September 2007

As an Icon of Photography, one of a premiere group of photographers selected by Kingston Technology, Gerd Ludwig is featured on Kingston's IOP website series, "20 Questions", which provides site visitors with an intimate perspective on the techniques, personal experiences and philosophies of some of the world's most respected photographers.

To read Gerd's 20 Answers go to: www.kingston.com/flash/iop/default.asp

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TOSCANA PHOTOGRAPHIC WORKSHOP IN ITALY
July 2007

The Toscana Photographic Workshop (TPW) is hosting Gerd Ludwig and former National Geographic Director of Photography, Kent Kobersteen for a week long workshop in Tuscany, Italy on July 15- 21, 2007. Advanced photographers who want to take their editorial or personal work to the next level, will be exposed to the techniques and approaches photographers use in the field to create work for National Geographic Magazine and other publications, including the research of topics, photographing people in an intimate fashion, taking editorial photographs that communicate emotionally, and using aesthetics in a sophisticated manner. They will also discuss business aspects of photography, such as creating a strong portfolio, approaching editors and getting assignments, finding the right agency, developing a lasting relationship with a publication, and photography in the electronic age. Ludwig and Kobersteen have collaborated as photographer and director of photography on many National Geographic stories. Their professional relationship offers the students a varied and realistic perspective on the business of editorial photography and on each student's photographic work.

For more information about the workshop go to: http://www.tpw.it

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FINE ART REVIEW IN FOCUS MAGAZINE
May 2007

Gerd Ludwig's January 2007 Best in Show exhibit at the Farmani Gallery, featuring his work as the 2006 Lucie Award Winner for International Photographer of the Year, is reviewed in the May 2007 issue of Focus Magazine. Art critic Steve Weinstein writes, If the purpose of art is to move, to convey beauty, to communicate the incommunicable magic of human consciousness flailing uncertainly in a world rife with pain, folly and our inevitable mortality, then German-born Gerd Ludwig's naturalistic images of contemporary life in the former Soviet Union Republics, shot primarily for publication in National Geographic, are art...

For more information about Focus Fine Art Photography Magazine, go to http://www.focusmag.info/

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INTERVIEW IN FOTOVIDEO
March 2007

While stopping off in Prague en route to Pilsen, Czechoslovakia to tour the Pilsner Urquell Brewery in pre-production for a commercial length film for Pilsner Urquell, Gerd Ludwig is interviewed by Jaroslav Major for FotoVideo, Czechoslovakia's preeminent photo magazine.  The 9-page spread appears in the magazine's March 2007 issue.

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ACURA MOTORSPORTS
March 2007

Do three Acura LeMans PT2 cars have what it takes to be competitive?   Acura puts them to the test on the Sebring International Racetrack in Florida for a grueling 12 hour trial race.   Gerd Ludwig is there to capture the events of the day - on the track, in the pits, and under the hood.  

See what goes on behind the scenes of top-level sports car racing up close:
GO TO: http://gerdludwig.com/html/acura_motorsports.htm

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CANON DIGITAL LEARNING CENTER
February 2007

CanonUSA launches the new Canon Digital Learning Center website, the Online Education Department’s destination for its Explorer Of Light  and Master Printer enthusiasts.  Offering in-depth interviews and portfolios from Canon’s select group of internationally renown photographers and top digital printers, the inaugural launch includes lengthy conversations exploring personal and technical topics with photographers Gerd Ludwig, Barbara Bordnick, and Robert Farber.

For more information about the Canon Digital Learning Center:
http://www.usa.canon.com/dlc/controller?act=GetArticleAct&articleID=567&fromTips=1

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VITUS BERING IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GERMANY
February 2007

In 1724 Danish-born navigator, Vitus Jonassen Bering, was appointed leader of an expedition by Peter The Great to explore the eastern most limits of Russia and determine whether Asia and North America were connected by land. In 1728 he set sail from the Kamchatka Peninsula and passed through what would later be named the Bering Strait. His plan for a second expedition was expanded into Russia's Great Northern Expedition (1733–43), which mapped Russia’s eastern Arctic coast. After exploring the Alaskan coast, his ship was wrecked on what later became known as Bering Island.  There he fell ill from scurvy and died in 1741. Bering’s  explorations paved the way for a Russian foothold in North America.

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PRESENTATION AT WISCONSIN PPA REGIONAL CONVENTION
February 2007

Gerd Ludwig is giving a lecture/presentation hosted by the Wisconsin Professional Photographers Association on Saturday, February 24, 2007. Gerd's presentation, sponsored by CanonUSA, is part of the WPPA’s 111th Affiliated Regional Convention, which runs from February 22-24 at the Marriot Inn West in Madison, Wisconsin.

For more information about the WPPA Convention, go to:
http://www.wppa-online.com/photographers.iml?mdl=affiliated_convention.mdl

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LECTURE AT BROOKS INSTITUTE OF PHOTOGRAPHY, CALIFORNIA
February 2007

Gerd Ludwig is giving a public presentation/lecture (followed by Q&A) in association with the Visual Journalism Program at Brooks Institute of Photography in Ventura, California at 6:30pm on Tuesday, February 6, 2007. Gerd will present a broad collection of his work, beginning with his Russian material including his most current work in Chernobyl, as well as an overview of his work for National Geographic and Geo. His lecture will touch on the structural, logistical, technical, and ethical aspects of developing long-term stories, balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography.

More information about the presentation is available in January at http://www.brooksnppa.org

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CANON EXPLORERS OF LIGHT LECTURE SERIES
February 2007

On Thursday, February 1st, Gerd Ludwig presents a cross section of his work in the Canon Explorers of Light Lecture Series, sponsored by the Advertising Photographers of America/LA and The Julia Dean Workshop at the Anthony Nex Studio 3221 Hutchison Ave, Culver City. Gerd's presentation will be followed by a Q&A.

For more information about the time and location for this event go to http://www.juliadean.com and/or http://www.apa-la.org/webcart11

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JULIA DEAN PHOTO WORKSHOP
February 2007

Gerd Ludwig conducts his workshop, Magazine Stories for the Documentary Photographer, on February 2-4 at Julia Dean and Assoc. in Venice, California. This intensive 3-day course will concentrate on developing long-term stories and discussing their structural, logistical, technical, and ethical aspects, balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography. After individual portfolio reviews, Gerd shares the personal methods and techniques he uses to create his own color work, such as story research; how to approach a subject and establish trust; choice of lenses, light, film, flash, and filters to capture mood and content; the essentials of color composition; establishing a sense of place; and other working methods of National Geographic photographers. For digital shooters, Gerd will discuss storage options during long term assignments in remote locations; image identification, labeling and captioning; post production workflow; and packaging your stories for resale market distribution.

For more information about the workshop go to: http://juliadean.com

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EXHIBIT AT FARMANI GALLERY, LOS ANGELES
January 2007

An exhibit featuring the work of the 2006 IPA Photographer of the Year and Lucie Award winner, Gerd Ludwig, is presented at the Farmani Gallery in Beverly Hills, CA from January 6 to January 24, 2007. The photographs include not only his body of work in the Former Soviet Union and his latest work on Chernobyl, but also 6 large landscape photographs. To produce the prints for this CanonUSA sponsored exhibition Gerd Ludwig used Canon's Wide Format IPF9000 pigment printer. An opening reception is being held on January 6, 6 – 9 p.m. and a finisage on January 20, 7 -10 p.m.

For more information, go to: www.farmanigallery.com

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DISTINGUISHED SPEAKERS LECTURE SERIES, NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY
January 2007

On Friday, January 26th at 6pm Gerd Ludwig gives a presentation of his work followed by a Q&A and booksigning reception at the Newport Beach Public Library as part of their Distinguished Speakers Lecture Series. Past speakers have included NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw, evolutionary biologist Stephen Jay Gould, former CIA director and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, writers Seymour Hersh and Howard Zinn, and playwrite Edward Albee. Gerd's presentation is sponsored by CanonUSA.

For more information about the Distinguished Speakers Lecture Series and the Newport Beach Public Library, go to: 
www.nbplfoundation.org

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PRESENTATION IN HANNOVER, GERMANY
December 2006

On 19th of December at 6 pm, Gerd Ludwig is giving a presentation of his work in the Design Center, Expo Plaza 2 in Hannover, Germany. Through his collection of multi-faceted images, including photographs from his book, Broken Empire: After the Fall of the USSR and his recent work in Chernobyl, Gerd examines the social effects of Russia's warp-speed transformation from a state-controlled society to free market economy. The presentation concludes with a selection of his most notable landscape photographs.

For more information: http://www.fotografie-studium.de/gerd-ludwig

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GEORGE EASTMAN HOUSE
November 2006

On December 25, 1991, at 7:35 p.m., soldiers lowered the Soviet Empire’s red hammer-and-sickle flag flying over the Kremlin and raised the Russian national tricolor. The abrupt collapse of Soviet communism gave rise to a decade of glittering opportunity, poignant suffering, and brutal upheaval. Gerd Ludwig’s photographic presentation, “Russia – The Wild, Wild East”, shows the Soviet society's warp-speed transformation to Wild West Capitalism, and is being presented as part of the George Eastman House lecture series, "Wish You Were Here", at the Dryden Theatre in Rochester, N.Y. on November 2, 2006.

For additional information: http://www.eastmanhouse.org/inc/programs_events/lectures.php

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EXHIBIT IN LUCCA, ITALY
November 2006

An exhibition of 30 of Gerd Ludwig’s photographs "Chernobyl: Living with Disaster" is being shown at the Festival Internazionale della Fotografia Digitale in Lucca, Italy.  This solo show combines images taken while on assignment for National Geographic Magazine in the early 90s and in 2005, when Gerd returned nearly 20 years after the nuclear disaster to Belarus and the Ukraine to document the status of contamination and the progress of the clean up. The exhibit runs from November 18 to December 10, 2006.

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THE LUCIE AWARDS - INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR
October 2006

The highlight of the annual International Photography Awards, the 2006 Lucie Awards Gala, was held on October 30th in New York City at the American Airline Theatre, an event sponsored by Pilsner Urquell. Two of the 15 IPA nominees were awarded Lucies, the prestigious “Oscars of Photography”. Los Angeles based Gerd Ludwig was named The International Photographer of the Year and received $10,000 awarded by AtEdge. The $5,000 award for The New Discovery of the Year went to Ghada Khunji.

The 15 nominees are selected from thousands of entries in 15 categories, eight for professional photographers and seven for amateurs.  The jury consists of influential art directors, picture editors and curators looking for excellence in the categories of advertising, architecture, books, editorial, fine art, nature, people, and special. As well as receiving the 2006 Lucie Award for International Photographer of the Year, Gerd was given an IPA award for Professional Book Photographer of the Year for BROKEN EMPIRE, published by National Geographic.
 
In addition to the annual international competition, several photographers were honored with the esteemed outstanding achievement awards.  The 2006 honorees are David Bailey (Fashion), Neil Leifer (Sports), Roger Mayne (Documentary), Duane Michals (Portraiture), Sarah Moon (Fine Art), Marc Riboud (Photojournalism), Albert Watson (Advertising); Eikoh Hosoe received a Visionary Award and Willy Ronis was awarded for Lifetime Achievement.

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PHOTOKINA IN KÖLN, GERMANY 
September 2006

Photokina is a trade fair for the photographic and imaging industries, held biennially in September at the Cologne Trade Fair in Germany. Alternating between lectures in English and German, Gerd Ludwig presents his work and is available for Q&A at the Kingston booth throughout Photokina, September 26 to October 2, 2006. For more information about this international trade show go to: http://www.photokina-cologne.com

Also during Photokina, eight of Gerd’s photographs are included in the exhibit, “Gott in Deutschland – God in Germany”, a group show of several VISUM photographers at the Kunsthaus Rhenania (Rheinauhafen, Bayenstr. 28, 50678 Köln) from September 26 to October 1, 2006. 

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CHERNOBYL AT VISA POUR L'IMAGE - PERPIGNAN, FRANCE 
September 2006

Bringing together some of the biggest names and most powerful images in photo-journalism, the Visa pour l'Image festival in Perpignan, France attracts close to 3,000 professionals and 200,000 visitors each year and is considered the greatest photojournalist forum in the world.  For the 30 exhibitions presented, director/curator Jean-François Leroy selects some of the most thought-provoking photographic reports of the past year.

In his exhibition “The Long Shadow of Chernobyl”  - now his third at Visa Pour l’Image - Gerd Ludwig revisits the region of the world’s worst nuclear accident. As 2006 marks the 20th anniversary of the disaster, Gerd’s photographs of the lingering contamination, the treacherous cleanup, and the lasting health defects document how the shadow of Chernobyl continues to darken lives – socially, environmentally, and physically.

On assignment for National Geographic magazine, the thawing of bureaucratic barriers in Ukraine enabled Gerd to move freely within the Exclusion Zone and delve deeper into Chernobyl reactor than any other Western photographer. Some of the most memorable of the 45 photographs in this exhibit depict Chernobyl’s voiceless victims; they allowed their suffering to be documented solely in the hope that tragedies like Chernobyl be prevented in the future.

For more information: http://www.visapourlimage.com
 
A selection of the images are also available in the Gallery section of this website.

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KINGSTON ICON OF PHOTOGRAPHY
July 2006

Kingston Technology, Inc., a leader in the field of digital memory, has named Gerd Ludwig one of its elite Icons of Photography. To see his personal web page on Kingston's site, where Gerd offers technical tips and insights into his working methods when on assignment for National Geographic Magazine, go to: www.kingston.com/flash/iop/default.asp

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GROUP EXHIBIT IN OLDENBURG, GERMANY
June 2006

As part of a group exhibit, “Tschernobyl 1986-2006. Leben mit einer Tragödie - Chernobyl 1986-2006. Living with a Tragedy” at the Landesmuseum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte in Oldenburg, Germany, a collection of 30 of Gerd Ludwig’s photographs explores the lasting environmental, health and social consequences of the Chernobyl accident. The show also includes work by Anatol Kliashchuk (Ukraine) and Rüdiger Lubricht (Germany). Commemorating the world's worst nuclear disaster of 1986, this powerful exhibit presents a haunting documentation of the aftermath.  It runs from June 25 to September 3, 2006.

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CHERNOBYL IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC MAGAZINE
April 2006

2006 marks the 20th anniversary of the Chernobyl accident. On April 26, 1986 at 1:23 am, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant blew up after operators botched a safety test, triggering the world’s worst nuclear disaster to date.  Twenty years later, the long shadow of Chernobyl continues to darken lives - socially, environmentally, and physically. 

On assignment for National Geographic magazine, the thawing of bureaucratic barriers in Ukraine enabled Gerd Ludwig to move freely within the Exclusion Zone and delve deeper into the Chernobyl reactor than any other Western photographer, resulting in an in-depth coverage of the situation in the Exclusion Zone and the desperate efforts to stabilize the deteriorating sarcophagus.  Some of the photographs depict Chernobyl’s voiceless victims; they allowed their suffering to be documented solely in the hope that tragedies like Chernobyl be prevented in the future.

An audio/visual version of this powerful story can be found at http://www7.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0604/sights_n_sounds/index.html

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WILLY-BRANDT-HAUS - BERLIN, GERMANY
March 2006

2006 marks the 20th anniversary of the Chernobyl accident.  On April 26, 1986, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant blew up after operators botched a safety test. An enormous explosion hurled the 3,000-ton roof along with radioactive nuclear fuel into the air.  The core of the reactor melted.  An invisible danger spread over vast regions of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia – in total seven million people were exposed to the fall-out.
In commemoration of its 20th anniversary, the Freundeskreis Willy-Brandt-Haus e.V. in Berlin, Germany presents its 100th Exhibition, “Tschernobyl – Eine Katastrophe und ihre Konsequenzen/Chernobyl - A Catastrophe and its Consequences".  
In a mind-boggling exhibit of more than 150 photographs, six internationally renowned photographers present their impressions of Chernobyl’s aftermath.  Gerd Ludwig shows 30 photographs taken on assignment for National Geographic Magazine in the early 90s and in 2005 to document the lingering contamination, the progress of the clean up, and the lasting health consequences. He is joined by Paul Fusco (USA), Andreas Gefeller (Germany), Igor Kostin (Ukraine), and Rüdiger Lubricht (Germany).

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JULIA DEAN PHOTO WORKSHOP
February 2006

Gerd is conducting a weekend workshop, Magazine Stories for the Documentary Photographer, on February 17-19 at Julia Dean and Assoc. in Venice, California. The workshop will concentrate on developing long-term stories, balancing objectivity with personal vision in photojournalism and documentary photography. After individual portfolio reviews, Gerd will openly share the techniques and personal approaches he uses to create his own work, such as story research; how to approach a subject and establish trust; choice of lenses, lighting, film, flash, and filters to capture atmosphere, mood and spirit; and other working methods of National Geographic photographers. For digital shooters, Gerd will discuss storage options during long term assignments in remote locations.

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EXHIBIT AT THE RIVERSIDE ART MUSEUM
January 2006

The exhibit, "Land in Translation," focuses on the photography-based artwork of artists from central Europe, specifically Germany, Switzerland, and Holland, who live in Los Angeles and respond in their work to their surroundings. Gerd Ludwig has been chosen to present work from his recent story for National Geographic Magazine on California's troubled Salton Sea (February 2005). Images from this story can be seen in the Recent Work section of this website. For more information about the exhibit and The Riverside Art Museum, go to www.riversideartmuseum.org.

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DIGITAL PHOTO PRO
November/December 2005

Titled "At The Heart Of The Matter", Digital Photo Pro's in depth article on Gerd Ludwig explores his transition from film to digital and how this journey has transformed Gerd's daily working methods as a National Geographic photographer.

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WITNESS: THE WORLD'S GREATEST NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS
November 2005

Gerd Ludwig is one of 54 photojournalists, including Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Capa, Dorothea Lange, James Nachtwey, Mary Ellen Mark, Eugene Richards, Sebastiao Salgado, and Weegee, in Reuel Golden's book celebrating the world's greatest news photographers. Covering events such as the Great Depression, space travel, the building and the dismantling of the Berlin Wall, and the South Asian tsunami disaster of 2004, the photographs in this book pay tribute to the "art" of the photojournalist. Published by Carlton Press/UK.

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WIDE ANGLE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GREATEST PLACES
October 2005

Capturing a dazzling variety of photographs from every corner of the planet, WIDE ANGLE: NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GREATEST PLACES is the final companion volume to the New York Times bestsellers "Through the Lens: National Geographic Greatest Photographs" and "In Focus: National Geographic Greatest Portraits". WIDE ANGLE completes a trilogy that spans the globe and sweeps across more than a century of dramatic photography.

Gerd Ludwig took the cover photograph of this 504-page, coffee-table book, lavishly illustrated with 260 photographs selected from National Geographic's archive of 10.5 million images. The photos, many never before published, showcase the work of 120 photographers, including Sam Abell, William Albert Allard, Jodi Cobb, Steve McCurry, David Alan Harvey, Chris Johns, and George Steinmetz. Edited by Leah Bendavid-Val, the book is divided into 12 chapters, each introduced by award-winning cultural writer and critic Ferdinand Protzman, who reflects on the many ways people experience and relate to places and pictures of places.

In addition to its U.S release, the book will also be published internationally in 11 countries: Bulgaria, China, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Korea, Poland, Portugal, Russia and Spain. A selection of images from WIDE ANGLE will be on display at the National Geographic Museum at Explorers Hall, and Gerd will depart on a nationwide book and PR tour beginning in October 2005 and running through January 2006 and will include the following television and radio appearances: CNN Headline News (New York, NY); CNN International (Atlanta/Los Angeles, CA); "The Influentials" ABC News Now (New York,NY); Northwest Cable News, Fox News/KCPQ-TV (Seattle, WA); KPRI-FM “Morning Show”, KNTV-TV (NBC 11), KPIX-TV/CBS 5 (San Francisco, CA); "Fox In The Morning" XETA FOX6, KSCO-AM/(Santa Cruz) “Good Morning Monterey Bay” (San Diego, CA); NBC Satellite TV Tour (Los Angeles, CA); Bulgarian TV (Sofia).

To preview some of the photos with Gerd's commentary go to:   http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2005/10/1003_051003_wide_angle.html

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TURNING HEADS
April 2006

This spring, with openings in Washington, New York, and Los Angeles, director, screenwriter, and cancer survivor, Jackson Hunsicker, will release Turning Heads , a book of inspiring portraits of female cancer survivors.

Shot by renowned American photographers, the book takes the image of bald-headed women struggling with cancer, and turns it upside down by revealing their inner strength and beauty despite the visible effects of their medical treatment. Beneficiaries of the book's proceeds include the American Association for Cancer Research. Gerd Ludwig is one of the many photographers who donated their time and skills to this moving book.

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NAPOLEON IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GERMANY
November 2005

There are few individuals in history that have captured the imagination of historians as much as Napoleon Bonaparte who, over the course of little more than a decade, acquired control of most of the western and central mainland of Europe by conquest or alliance. In Germany in 1806, after the defeat of the Austro-Russian armies by Napoleon at Austerlitz, the 1000-year-old Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation came to an end. Prussia also met defeat in 1806 in the battle of Jena and Auerstedt and subsequently Napoleon ruled over all of Germany until his defeat at the Battle of the Nations near Leipzig in October 1813 .

As 2006 marks the 200th anniversary of Bonaparte's usurpation of all German territory, Gerd Ludwig traced his steps, photographing monuments and museums, reenactments and historic places for an article in the November issue of the German edition of National Geographic Magazine.

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OBIETTIVO UOMO AMBIENTE
September 2005

This premiere International Biennial of photojournalism organized by Tuscia University will take place in Viterbo, Italy from September 23 through October 9, 2005. Nobel Prize winners, internationally renowned scientific speakers, and 29 photographic exhibitions will provide an opportunity for debate between science and culture. The photographic exhibitions are divided into the five categories Environment , Man , Resources , Nature , and Cultural Heritage .   Gerd Ludwig's exhibition, "Se la Terra diventa l'Inferno - When Earth becomes Hell" , focuses on the environmental and human toll resulting from Soviet industrial pollution and the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of 1986.

For a selection of photographs of Soviet Pollution go to the GALLERY section of this website.
For more information contact: info@obiettivouomoambiente.net

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TASMANIA/THE OVERLAND TRACK IN GEO GERMANY
August 2005

Tasmania is Australia's second oldest and also its smallest state with a population of 473,000. It is a place of remarkable topographical diversity, with breathtaking mountain ranges, lush rainforests, delicate alpine moorlands, picturesque waterfalls and wild beaches. Known world wide for its pristine wilderness, about one quarter of Tasmania is contained in national parks, and most of this has world heritage status. Gerd's story on Tasmania appears in the August issue of German GEO Magazine. An additional story covering Tasmania's Overland Track was published in the Special GEO, Aug/Sept 2005.

A selection of images from Tasmania can be found in the RECENT WORK section of this website.

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WISCONSIN NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSOCIATION CONVENTION
February 26, 2005

This year the annual Wisconsin News Photographers Association Convention will be held at Milwaukee Art Museum. The convention provides a forum for working photographers and photojournalism students throughout the idwest to discuss their work with invited high-profile speakers.

Gerd Ludwig's lecture and presentation of recent work was made possible by Canon USA. For more information about the convention go to: www.wnpaonline.com

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NEW ADVERTISING REP: FRANK MEO
January 2005

Gerd Ludwig has signed with New York agent Frank Meo of MEO Represents for commercial work. MEO Represents specializes in repping editorial photographers and photojournalists for commercial assignments. www.meorepresents.com

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SALTON SEA IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
Februrary 2005

The Salton Sea is California's largest and most troubled lake. A victim of geography and hard-ball politics, it lies 227 feet below sea level with no outlet and very thirsty neighbors, including a billion dollar farm economy in the bone-dry Imperial Valley, 124 golf courses, and salt laden wetlands hosting a menagerie of wildlife in growing crisis. Gerd covered the story of this strange, sometimes lethal, oft maligned, oddly beautiful and downright weird lake in the Californian desert for National Geographic's February 2005 issue.

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NIBELUNGEN IN NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC GERMANY
December 2004

In Germany toward the end of the twelfth century, an epic surfaced which is considered to be the most important literary achievement of that era: The Nibelungenlied. Like its Greek counterpart, the Iliad, this monumental German poem goes back in time and unites myths and real historical figures into a heroic poem of love and deceit; murder, revenge and the self-destructive effects of launching a vendetta. Prince Siegfried hears of Kriemhild, the beautiful sister of King Gunther in Worms. Making his way to Worms, he kills a dragon and finds a treasure, 'The Hort'. Promised Kriemhild's hand if he helps Gunther.....

Gerd Ludwig spent several weeks in Germany and Austria to photograph historical places, castles, monuments and festivals to capture the mood and essence of the epic.

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PHOTOPLUS EXPO, NEW YORK
October 22, 2004

Photoplus Expo is the premier industry event for professional photographers and creatives in the US. You can find all the information you need for success in the photographic and imaging industry and encounter the inspiration and ideas from world-renowned experts and creatives in the PhotoPlus Photography Conference.

Gerd teaches a seminar “Magazine Stories for the Documentary Photographer”. This seminar will tell you everything you need to know to complete a long-term story and get it published. This workshop concentrates on all aspects of photographing complete stories. Learn how to approach your subject matter and stay on track while shooting long term projects. Ludwig will share various techniques he employs in regards to use of natural light, mastering a hand-held TTL flash, and his choice of lens and film when shooting projects for National Geographic and similar publications. He will also discuss methods for capturing atmosphere, mood and spirit while maintaining a sense of place.

For more information and registration, please visit; www.photoplusexpo.com

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FOCUS ON AIDS AUCTION/BENEFIT
June 2004

Due to the generosity of the photography community, the Focus On AIDS Foundation was able to raise over raised over $250,000 at its Tenth Benefit Auction held on June 11, 2004. One hundred percent of these funds were donated to various AIDS charities worldwide. The Focus On AIDS Foundation is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization whose purpose is to provide financial aid to photographers living with HIV or AIDS. Since 1987, the Foundation has produced a photography auction/benefit, the largest of its kind in the United States, to raise money for AIDS treatment, research, education and care. The auction included one of Gerd's photographs..

For more information; www.focusonaids.com

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GEOLINO
September 2003

GEOlino, the Kids' Magazine published by German GEO, runs a 13-image story on the life of Raukani, a Waiapi native of the Amazon, the daughter of the Okaraura village chief.

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MALIBU INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL POSTER
September 2003

"Independent Film can't survive in Hollywood - that's why it's coming to Malibu" was the headline for a series of posters that Gerd is shooting alongside commercial director Kevin Smith. Various actors/models are costumed in film cans to satirize the fate of independent film in Hollywood.

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VOICE OF AMERICA DOCUMENTARY
August 2003

Voice of America airs a short documentary produced by Carolyn Weaver, focusing on Gerd's work on Pollution in the Former Soviet Union, combining on-location video courtesy of National Geographic with interview segments shot in Los Angeles.

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IFAD'S "WHAT MEETS THE EYE"
June 2003

What Meets the Eye is a collection of photographs taken by 5 of the world's leading photojournalists to honor the achievements of the rural poor. This book commemorates the 25th anniversary of IFAD, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, a specialized agency of the United Nations, dedicated to enabling the rural poor to overcome poverty. This collection also tours worldwide as an exhibit.
(Participants in addition to Gerd: Alexandra Boulat, David Alan Harvey, Pascal Maitre, Alex Webb.)

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