Dieter Schonlau
Dieter Schonlau, a distinguished German photographer hailing from Paderborn, North Rhine-Westphalia, has dedicated his life to capturing the enchanting beauty of the world’s rainforests. At 61, Dieter reflects on a journey that began on his fourteenth birthday, when he received his first camera. From that moment, his love for nature photography was ignited, setting the stage for an extraordinary career spanning over three decades.
For more than thirty years, Dieter has ventured into the heart of rainforests across the globe, striving to let the rainforest speak through his lens. His photographs are a mesmerizing play of lights, shadows, and colours, showcasing the peculiar inhabitants and diverse splendour of these vital ecosystems. Dieter’s work is a testament to his belief that photography can foster a deep appreciation and understanding of the natural world.
In interviews, Dieter is often asked: “What is the most important thing you need as a photographer in the rainforest?” His answer is a blend of incredible patience, ample time, and a willingness to endure hardships, but above all, it’s passion that drives him. His wife, Sandra, his steadfast companion, shares this passion from the start. Together, they delight in every tiny creature before their lens, often remaining motionless and plagued by insects for days, waiting for encounters that may never happen. Their enthusiasm remains undiminished.
Dieter and Sandra have dedicated their lives to promoting and protecting the world’s rainforests. Through stunning photographs and captivating stories, they aim to inspire others to appreciate the boundless biodiversity of these ecosystems. Their efforts are recognised globally; they have presented at events for the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation (BMU), the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation (BfN), and the UN Conference on Nature Conservation in Germany. Featured in prestigious lecture series and European festivals, their accolades attest to their success in giving a voice to the rainforest.
Dieter hopes to trigger enthusiasm for the rainforests through his photography. He believes that people only protect what they know, and perhaps even more when they come to appreciate it. Dieter and Sandra aim to inspire a deeper connection to the natural world, fostering a commitment to its preservation for future generations with every press of the shutter.
Their life’s work is a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation and the profound impact that one’s passion and dedication can have in raising awareness and inspiring action to protect our planet’s most precious ecosystems.
2012 First photo book:
Life in the Jungle was published by National Geographic and has won awards
2022 Second photo book:
Jungle Life – Life dreams and endangered forests
Live on stage presentations
• Borneo – Hidden wonderland
• Amazon – On the trail of the jaguar
• Rainforests – Life in the jungle
We have also presented our work in various photo exhibitions in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
