Ostkreuzschule für Fotografie

The Ostkreuzschule is one of the most important schools for documentary photography, artistic photography and photojournalism in Germany. The school defines photography as a language and photographers as authors who face the world with a clear vision, exploring and portraying social, societal and political contexts. The basics of the photographic work is constantly reflected and discussed. In addition to this lively culture of debate, the teaching is based on a sound technical training, theoretical foundations and a strong practical focus. The teachers and graduates publish worldwide in the most important media, exhibit in major museums and galleries and are honored with the most prestigious awards. The private school emerged from the renowned Ostkreuz agency. It was founded in 2004 by Werner Mahler and Thomas Sandberg, and its program was influenced by Prof. Ute Mahler, Sibylle Bergemann and Prof. Arno Fischer, among others. Since 2023, it is headed by Lia Darjes and Jörg Brüggemann.