About Foto Waschbaer
Your outdoor photographer from the Rhine Valley — capturing equestrian sports and outdoor events with decades of experience.
My Story
My name is Franz R. Berger, born in February 1968 in Judenburg, Styria. I received my first SLR camera — a Praktika — at the age of 14, and photography has been my passion ever since. Over the years, I progressed through Minolta Dynax 8000i and 800si systems, then to Sony Alpha, before finding my home with Nikon digital cameras.
My early specialties ranged from macro photography — primarily in the medical field — to nature, wildlife, and fine art photography. As a fine art photographer, I worked for several German publishers throughout the 1990s. The versatility of these disciplines shaped my eye for composition, light, and authentic moments.
After a sports accident in 2008, I joined Sportfoto Götz and later helped Mohamed Ibrahim build his company Sportfoto Mo from 2017 onwards. These years in professional sports photography deepened my expertise in capturing fast-paced action and the emotional bond between horse and rider.
Today, based in Rebstein in the Swiss Rhine Valley, Foto Waschbaer brings together all of these experiences — decades of technical mastery, a deep love for the outdoors, and an understanding of what makes equestrian photography truly special. Every event is an opportunity to tell your story through images that last a lifetime.
What Drives Me
Over 30 years behind the lens have taught me one thing: the best photos happen when technique becomes invisible and only the moment remains. I shoot where the light is best — outdoors.
Decades of Experience
From macro photography in medical labs to fast-paced equestrian sports — every discipline sharpened my eye for the decisive moment and the perfect composition.
Authentic Moments
No staged scenes. I capture what actually happens — the concentration before the jump, the bond between horse and rider, the joy of victory.
Delivered While Fresh
Your photos arrive within 1-2 weeks — professionally edited, ready to print, and available through a secure download link or USB.