Rainer Schlegelmilch at Taschen Brussels
The TASCHEN store in Brussels recently hosted an exclusive press presentation featuring legendary motorsport photographer Rainer W. Schlegelmilch, who introduced his latest Ferrari photography book to members of the media and invited guests. The event offered a rare opportunity to hear one of the world’s most respected motorsport photographers speak about his remarkable career and his enduring fascination with Ferrari, one of racing’s most iconic names.
Rainer W. Schlegelmilch is widely regarded as one of the greatest photographers in the history of motorsport. His career began in 1962 at the Nürburgring, and over the following decades he documented Formula 1, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Targa Florio, Spa-Francorchamps and many other legendary races. His photographs have become synonymous with the golden age of motor racing, capturing not only the speed and excitement on the track but also the atmosphere, emotion and personalities behind the sport.
Known for his innovative photographic techniques, Schlegelmilch developed a distinctive zoom effect that gave his images an extraordinary sense of movement and speed. This signature style earned him the nickname “Zoom Master” and helped define the visual language of motorsport photography. Throughout his career he has published dozens of books, and his work continues to inspire photographers and racing enthusiasts around the world.
His latest Ferrari publication is a tribute to one of the most celebrated manufacturers in automotive history. Featuring a carefully selected collection of photographs from his extensive archive, the book traces Ferrari’s evolution through decades of racing success. From Formula 1 victories to endurance classics, Schlegelmilch’s images capture the beauty, engineering excellence and passion that have made Ferrari a global symbol of performance and prestige.
During the presentation in Brussels, Schlegelmilch shared stories from behind the camera, recalling unforgettable moments from race circuits across Europe and beyond. He spoke about the challenges of photographing cars travelling at incredible speeds in an era long before digital cameras and autofocus systems, relying instead on experience, timing and instinct. His anecdotes gave attendees a fascinating insight into the dedication required to document some of the greatest moments in motorsport history.
Among the journalists attending the presentation was photographer and journalist Wilfried Geerts, a long-time admirer of Schlegelmilch’s work. As a passionate follower of motorsport photography, Geerts has always considered Schlegelmilch one of the true masters of the profession. Meeting the photographer in Brussels and hearing him speak about six decades of racing history made the event particularly memorable. For him, it was an opportunity to meet one of the photographers who helped shape the visual history of international motorsport.
The press presentation at TASCHEN Brussels celebrated much more than the release of a new book. It highlighted the enduring power of photography to preserve sporting history and demonstrated why Rainer W. Schlegelmilch remains one of the most influential figures in motorsport photography. His images continue to transport viewers to some of racing’s greatest moments, ensuring that the legacy of Ferrari and the sport itself lives on for future generations.
Picture gallery
© Wilfried Geerts
