Helmar Lerski

Helmar Lerski (18 February 1871, in Strasbourg – 19 September 1956, in Zürich) was a photographer who laid some of the foundations of modern photography.

His works are on display in the USA, Germany, Israel and Switzerland.

In 1888, Lerski emigrated to the United States, where he worked as an actor.

In 1915, he returned to Europe and worked as a cameraman and expert for special effects for many films, including Fritz Lang's Metropolis.

In 1932, he emigrated with his second wife to Mandate Palestine, where he continued to work as a photographer, cameraman, and film director.

Portrait of Helmar Lerski, 1946
Working hands (1933-1940)
from the series Jewish soldiers (1942-1943)