Meet Manfred Behr
Manfred Behr, an exceptionally talented photo artist, renowned for his evocative and stunning up close images that capture fleeting moments of nature, drawing viewers into a vivid, immersive experience. Born in 1937 in Vaihingen/Enz, Germany, Manfred’s passion for photography began in his childhood and has remained a guiding force throughout his life.
“Haus bauen, Kind zeugen, Baum pflanzen, Buch schreiben”
Inspired by this German proverb (“build a home, have a child, plant a tree, write a book”), Manfred took this saying to heart. While many cultures share similar expressions, they all reflect a deeper message: To live a life where you create a meaningful legacy. And in his life, Manfred has fulfilled each part of this legacy in remarkable ways.
Marrying his beloved Ilse in 1961 they embarked on a lifetime of endless adventures, their shared journey unfolding.
Have a Child
Having their first child, Simone, in 1963, followed by Mick and Nicola, Manfred during that time, co-founded a furniture design company. Together with his business partner, the company went on to earn national awards in Germany. Honored for innovative, modern designs—functional pieces that were, in themselves, works of art. Alongside this, he never stopped capturing life through the lens of his camera.
Build a Home
In 1971 Manfred began constructing the family home, designing and building it. Of course it was not just any house. Sustainably built using eco friendly materials designed to be efficient in form and function. The interior and exterior surfaces were part of the core material, eliminating the need for additional cladding or interior finishes. This home exemplified Manfred's innovative spirit.
Plant a Tree
In the mid 1970’s Manfred, Ilse and their 3 children immigrated to British Columbia, Canada. Here he continued to embrace new challenges. No, Manfred did not just plant a tree. In fact he cultivated an entire farm. Planting among other things, 7000 strawberry plants. And, true to Manfreds characteristic creativity, he developed a special planting process. While the plants themselves were hand sown, the procedure for keeping the rows perfectly aligned was his innovation.
Write a Book
In the early 1990’s a yearning for another new chapter took hold. Manfred, Ilse and two of their children moved to Southwest Florida. True to form, he didn’t just write a book; he along with his family, created an entire magazine. In 1993, Florida Journal was born—a full-color, glossy German-language travel magazine that featured Manfred’s breathtaking photography of Florida’s vibrant tropical landscapes, flora and fauna.
The magazine became a bridge between Florida and German-speaking visitors, showcasing the beauty of the Sunshine State through his visionary lens. With distribution in the US and Europe, the magazine won multiple awards. Born with the fascination of the "up closeness of life", Manfred's skill was honed through his work with Florida Journal.
Manfred’s work often blurs the line between photography and painting
Using a range of techniques and styles that add depth to his portfolio. Yet, a few things make him truly distinctive: His innovative use of light and his keen eye for editing, which bring his subjects to life in spectacular ways. Perhaps most surprising, is his quiet humility. When asked how he captures such moments and infuses his creativity into his work, he is a man of few words. Choosing instead to prioritize artistic expression over explanation.
Of all his accomplishments, none is dearer to him than his family
Manfred and his beloved wife, Ilse, share three children, three grandchildren, and now the joy of a great-grandchild. At 87, Manfred’s passion for photography remains as strong as ever. Residing in Fort Myers, Florida, the subtropical landscape continues to inspire his work. With Ilse by his side, after more than 65 years of love, laughter and life, their journey together endures, as vibrant as the moments he captures through his lens.