Hans Strand
Hans Strand is a Swedish landscape photographer and former sports shooter. He is internationally recognized for his large-format and aerial photography, depicting both pristine wilderness and landscapes shaped by human activity. Strand has published numerous books and received multiple awards, including the prestigious Hasselblad Master Award in 2008.
Biography
Strand was born in Marmaverken, Sweden, in 1955. He initially pursued a career in mechanical engineering and worked for nine years before deciding to become a full-time photographer in 1990. His passion for photography began during a trip to California in 1981, where he shot his first rolls of film in Yosemite National Park.Photography career
Strand’s work spans polar deserts, rainforests, mountains, and agricultural landscapes. His early focus was on untouched wilderness, but in recent years he has explored human impact on ecosystems, including water pollution and large-scale farming patterns. He is known for aerial photography, having spent over 120 hours shooting from helicopters and airplanes, particularly in Iceland.His style emphasizes composition and tonal accuracy over dramatic lighting, often preferring overcast conditions for their subtlety. Strand’s photographs have been exhibited internationally and published in leading photography magazines.