About Klaus Leidorf

& his life as an aerial photographer / aerial archaeologist

Klaus Leidorf

Born: June 5, 1956 in Bonn

Studies: 1976–1983 Protestant Theology, History of Religions, Prehistory and Early History in Bonn and Marburg

Occupation: 1983–1985 Research Assistant at the University of Marburg

1985–1989 Research Associate at the Bavarian State Office for Monument Preservation

Freelance aerial archaeologist since 1989, specializing in Bavaria

Photographer – Pilot – Aerial Archaeologist

Even as a child, Klaus Leidorf loved taking photographs from all sorts of angles – he had no idea back then that it would one day become his profession. He studied theology – but had to realize that it wasn't his calling, so he switched to prehistory and early history.

After his studies, he worked at the Bavarian State Office for the Preservation of Historical Monuments in Munich, and after two years, the opportunity arose to take over aerial archaeology for Bavaria. For this, he obtained his pilot's license, and from the late 1980s onward, Klaus Leidorf's workplace was largely located in a Cessna 172 several hundred meters above the ground.

The interest in Klaus's work

He documented and rediscovered many thousands of archaeological sites. Over the years, he also observed the changing landscape, primarily due to human activity, which he continues to document photographically. Aside from a few renaturation projects, it is unfortunately the enormous increase in land consumption that is so clearly visible from above.

What began as a "byproduct" has now become internationally sought-after wall art, with Klaus Leidorf delivering fascinating new artistic photographs on every flight. These range from the most atmospheric motifs captured through unique lighting effects – to snapshots of city and country life – to abstract images that pose a great enigma for the viewer.

Customers from all over the world enjoy his works – presented, among other things, at all major international art fairs by Roy Seifert of the Contempop art gallery (Tel Aviv/New York).

A wide range of clients from the media industry are also interested in Klaus Leidorf's work – from images for advertising campaigns, to documentaries and radio programs about his work, to illustrated books published by various publishers. Architects also frequently use his photographic material to enhance their projects.

In addition, exhibitions are held regularly to captivate people with selected motifs.