Photo studio Foto Krause in Lübeck is closing its doors after 143 years
Bärbel Herrmann is closing her photo studio Foto Krause in Lübeck after 35 years. Reasons: digitalization and lack of successor.

Photo studio Foto Krause in Lübeck is closing its doors after 143 years
Bärbel Herrmann is closing the traditional photo studio Foto Krause in Lübeck at the end of November. At the age of 63, the owner has not found a successor and her employees are also not prepared to continue running the business. Herrmann's farewell words are characterized by hindsight and melancholy as she looks back on the company's long history. Foto Krause was founded 143 years ago by Julius Krause and originally established itself as a photography supplies store. Herrmann took over the studio in 1990 and opened it in a new location at Königstraße 127 in 2003 after the business closed in 2003.
Herrmann offered portrait, wedding and application photography in her studio and prided herself on being a place for personal advice. Looking back on her time, she notes: “I experienced many beautiful encounters and accompanied families for over 35 years.” But the challenges have grown. Changes in the industry, particularly increasing digitalization and competition from smartphones and weekend photographers, have led to the studio closing. In addition, the abolition of the master craftsmanship requirement has severely damaged the craft. Herrmann regrets this step, but she nevertheless draws a positive conclusion from her time and is looking forward to a new phase in her life: “I am planning to move to the Bonn area in order to continue working with the camera.”
The future of photography
Sustainability is also becoming increasingly important in photography. Many photographers are looking for eco-friendly practices and materials while also wanting to reduce their environmental footprint. A key aspect of these trends is the use of reusable materials and sustainable cameras made from environmentally friendly materials. Loud fotomon.do Analogue photography will also experience a comeback and will increasingly be flanked by experimental techniques, which for many photographers means a return to the roots.
A look into the future
The influence of social media on photography should not be underestimated either. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok define image styles and promote authentic, spontaneous shots. The perfect production is increasingly being supplemented by unadorned representations. Sporting competition, creative approaches and the drive for individuality will be crucial for the future of photography.
So the future is colorful and exciting, and while some, like Bärbel Herrmann, are closing chapters, new, creative potential is emerging at the same time. Her story is a reminder that while the landscape of photography is changing drastically, the passion for the art of photography will always remain.