About

New York City, a place that stole my heart from the very beginning, just like it has for countless others. Photographer, artist, and filmmaker, that's who I am, and this city is my muse.

The beauty of NYC's skyline captivated me, driving me to explore and conquer over 100 buildings. It's a risky venture, but I gladly put my life on the line to capture the irresistible charm and personality of this incredible city through my lens.

Background

I was born in the Black Forest, Germany, studied Graphic design before I packed my bags in 1995 and came to NYC to pursue my dream to be a painter.

But faith had something different panned for me, and so I embarked on a career as a photographer at the forefront of the digital revolution in NYC.

Success followed as I ventured into the realms of art and commercial photography, collaborating with luxury brands and major corporations such as Hugo Boss, DeBeers, and Nextel.

Seeking inspiration on the city’s rooftops, my fascination with New York City’s ever-changing skyline blossomed. What started as a retreat turned into a quest for uncovering hidden angles, perspectives only visible from above.

My obsession with the interplay of light, weather, and the textured cityscape at dizzying heights directed my lens towards the heart of the city.

For over two decades, I’ve been a pioneer in cutting-edge camera technology, crafting elegant, high-resolution images with my Medium Format camera.

East Village |1997 NYC

Work

Embarking on a creative voyage, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with notable New Yorkers, including the likes of John Varvatos, Misty Copeland, and the legendary Living Colour.

In April 2016, the German Consulate General embraced my “New York Love Story,” a heartfelt tribute to the city I proudly call home.

Picture this: My digital installation, “From New Heights,” soared to new levels at 1 World Trade Center during the John Varvatos Store opening, making me the first artist to exhibit inside the Oculus.

Then in 2017, I found myself in the pulsating world of Mick Jones and Foreigner, capturing the behind-the-scenes magic on tour. From designing the Orchestral Album and Cover to filming and editing a trove of videos, interviews, and music clips—I’ve been the silent conductor behind the scenes.

For the past decade, I’ve (also) been in creative cahoots with the incredible Sybille Szaggars Redford and her husband, contributing my artistic flair as a board member for the nonprofit multimedia performance organization, The Way of The Rain.

In 2013 on a visit to Germany, where a quest for a printing house led me to the exceptional WhiteWall. Today, I proudly serve as a WhiteWall ambassador, entrusting my artistic vision to the forefront of German digital printing.

And that is just the beginning of endless possibilities and artistry, yet to unfold.

New York Love Story

Journey into the heart of “New York Love Story” with me, as I invite you to experience the magical moments meticulously documented over the past decades.

Dive into an expansive collection featuring iconic architectural imagery and artistic portraits—an eloquent homage to the vibrant spirit of NYC.

My forthcoming documentary, a two decade-long labor of love, seamlessly extends the narrative of my still photography, showcasing daring footage from the summits of towering skyscrapers and window-washing rigs.

Through a bird’s-eye perspective, witness the compelling backdrop to exclusive conversations with celebrities, residents, workers, and the growing community of free climbers inspired to conquer NYC’s towers, mirroring an urban Everest.

What began as a creative refuge has evolved into a captivating mosaic of storytellers fervently expressing their love for one of the world’s most enchanting cities.

For more of my work visit www.karstenstaiger.com