A Conversation with Jörn Henn
Ben Ashby
German based photographer Jorn Henn has quickly become one of our favorite photographers. His moody vibes and greens and blues have us captivated. The landscapes he shares have us dreaming of escaping the cities and heading deep into nature! We sat down with him to learn more.
Why do you adventure? Why do you explore?
My biggest motivation is keeping moments. I love to be outside in nature feeling the elements. I am a very curious person as well. That’s why I love to visit and explore new countries or places.
Why take risks in life?
It’s more fun. Without risks, life would be boring and you would not be able to surpass oneself.
Where are you from?
Cologne, Germany.
What is your 9-5?
I am an art historian.
When you were growing up what or who did you want to be?
A famous architect.
Favorite place you've visited.
Rio de Janeiro and the Dolomites.
Place you most desperately want to visit.
New Zealand and South Africa.
What is the single greatest moment of humanity you've experienced while traveling?
Meeting poor people. Like, really poor people. And the fact that when you realize that their struggle is connected to the global economy.
What has changed about you because of your travels?
I became more attentive about my needs and about climate and environment.
Who is the most dynamic and thought provoking person you've ever met?
I met Edda Moser, a German opera singer, during a lecture at the Cologne Opera House. Her voice was recorded singing Mozart’s Magic Flute aria “Queen Of The Night”, which is part of the Voyager Golden Record.
If you could travel with one person in history or in present, who would it be and why?
Otto the Great. He was a Roman German emperor in the 10th century. The kingdom of Germany was a travel kingdom, meaning because of its huge size, the German kings and emperors had no static residence. Several spread over the whole country, and he had to live a nomad’s life, like a lot of explorers do now. Well, and I’ve loved knights since my childhood.
Must haves for travel / travel tips?
Good shoes and a good jacket.
Give us a story any kind of story from one of your trips that will be impactful to the reader.
The feeling of slowing down when you are in the mountains. No rush and no stress. And the fact that you have to choose your equipment since you cannot carry everything with you.
Based on your travels, what is the single most needed improvement for humanity to be stronger?
A change in economy. I think big multinational companies and their urge of growth is one of the causes of the climate change and crimes against humanity.
What would you say to someone who has never travelled before?
Travel and collect moments and take off your blinders. That you don’t need to travel fast. That there are nice spots just around the corner.
What is the single greatest lesson you've learned from someone that is different than you?
My grandfather. He thought me to ask questions, not following the mass and trust one’s own heart (he was a soldier in WWII).
When did you feel you were most out of your comfort zone? What did you learn from that lesson?
During exams or just when I have to give proof about my skills. E.g. when you ask me for this. But I learned to fight against these fears and keep them small. Hiking helped me as well. The first glimpse of a mountains I wanna climb is always frightening. But on top, you feel like a king!
What would you say to your former self?
Trust yourself and your skills!
What gives you hope?
That love always wins.
Where to next?
Italy and Rome in October.
Is flannel always in season?
Flannel is always classy. Love it.
