Stories of Humanity

Thomas Hoepker is one of the most influential photographers of the past decades, shaping German photojournalism since the 1960s. As a long-time photographer for Stern and Kristall, and later as president of Magnum Photos, he became a defining voice of “concerned photography”.

Known for his precise compositions and emotional depth, Hoepker captured social realities with authenticity and nuance. His legendary Muhammad Ali series, powerful images from the GDR, and his iconic 9/11 photograph have become milestones of visual storytelling.

Thomas Hoepker: Stories of Humanity presents a curated retrospective of his life's work—from early black-and-white images to color masterpieces. The book includes striking reportages from the USA, the GDR, and crisis regions around the world, showcasing Hoepker’s unmistakable eye for the human condition.

Honored with the Leica Hall of Fame Award, Hoepker remains one of the great observers of contemporary history. This high-quality photo book offers an essential overview of his work and is a must-have for photography lovers, collectors, and anyone interested in visual culture.

Thomas Hoepker (1936–2024) was a German photographer and documentary filmmaker renowned for his elegant photography and compelling reportage. After studying art history and archaeology, he began working in 1960 for leading magazines such as Stern and Geo, serving as a correspondent in East Berlin, New York, and other locations. Hoepker was the first German full member of the Magnum Photos agency and served as its president in 2003. His work has been exhibited and published internationally, including the acclaimed books New York (2013) and Wanderlust (2014), both published by teNeues. He passed away in Santiago de Chile.