Axel Breutigam is a Canadian fine art photographer and musician with a passion for black-and-white photography. His work primarily focuses on architecture, landscapes, and floral subjects, blending technical sophistication with captivating perspectives, bold lighting, and abstract geometric forms. The result is a collection of striking, timeless compositions that resonate deeply with viewers.
As a musician, Axel has been playing drums and bass guitar since the 1970s, performing regularly with bands in Germany and later in Canada. His musical journey spans genres such as rock, country, blues, and jazz, showcasing his versatility and love for the craft.
Born and raised in Hamburg, Germany, Axel had a successful career as an attorney and CPA before relocating to Vancouver, BC, in 2000 with his wife and their two young adult children. This move allowed him to fully embrace his lifelong passion for photography, which quickly blossomed into a successful second career.
In just over a decade, Axel has become known for his distinctive style in black-and-white photography. His work has been featured in eight solo exhibitions and 29 group exhibitions across Vancouver, Calgary, Portland, and Palm Springs, displayed in commercial galleries, community art centres, and public spaces. Axel has also earned numerous photography awards and published four photography books, with his images featured in both English and German photography magazines.
When Axel isn’t behind the lens or performing music, he enjoys daily walks with his Chihuahua, Maggie, who is a constant companion on his photography outings. Whether capturing cityscapes or exploring on road trips, Maggie is always by Axel’s side—sometimes even in his arms when the adventure becomes a little too much for her.
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Which neighbourhood are you in?
I live in the Kitsilano area and love it. We are very lucky because our house overlooks English Bay/Burrard Inlet – I enjoy that every day.
What do you do?
I have been a photographer and musician since I was 16. After I sold my Law and CPA office in Hamburg, Germany, I moved with my family to Vancouver, BC and became a full-time photographer.
What are you currently working on?
I was in Southern California last fall to finish my photo series about the Salton Sea and Joshua Tree National Park. Here in Vancouver, I am planning a photo documentary about the historic theatres and the historic cinemas. Many of them have already disappeared and those that still exist deserve to be captured. The medium of black and white photography is ideal for this.
Where can we find your work?
You can buy my books at amazon.com; but you could also email me to get a book, that’ll be a bit less expensive. A selection of my book ‘UBC CONCRETE’ photographs are still (until March 3rd) on display at the Hycroft Gallery (1489 McRae Ave, Vancouver).
