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Jozef Aerts
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Jozef Aerts
MFIAP, E-FIAP/PL AIIPC, FPSA, EPSA, ED.ISF, PSA CS 7th Galaxy, ND 3rd Galaxy,
Photo-Traveller X, PhotoJournalist IV, MP***, CP***, VLF CS***, VLF CP
In Belgium there are some noteworthy amateur photographers. Someone who certainly deserves our attention in that respect as a dynamic and successful individual is Jos Aerts from Hasselt (born 1949, employed as a bank clerk), attached to Beringen Photoclub.
Like many others, he was drawn to photography at an early age. As a 13 year old humanities student he chose to spend his free Tuesday afternoons in school on this hobby. Since then he has been a fervent practitioner of this ever more gripping leisure activity.
In 1973 he bought his first mini-camera, a Minolta SRT 101. He has used Minolta equipment ever since. He favours slide, Black & White and colour photography, but also a range of genres: free subject, photo journalism, nature and travel.
He is frequently asked to be a jury member and lecturer both at home and abroad, on the subject of: photo journalism and travel photography. He was also a member of the board of the BFFK for seven years, and later of the VFF.
He strives to propagate photography as an art form. While he originally took part in all forms of competative photography, he has gradually gravitated towards travel photography. Whereas he previously hardly dared approach people, through photography he has learned to get closer to people in the countries he visits. He has developed an interest in other cultures and living conditions. He is happy that through photography he has visited different countries in four out of the five continents. He hopes to develop further in this direction and enjoy himself more as a travel photographer.
The number of submissions to national and international salons has been increasing rapidly since 1977 and has now reached a total of more than 7500. 900 of which have won prizes. A great number of awards have also been won. In travel photography he has become well known thoughout the world. Since May 1992 he has uninterruptedly shone as number one in the world in the Photographic Society of America's Star Rating. In order to earn this distinction he takes part every year in around 45 salons in various countries and his most recent works are on display. His most recent award is the Photo -Traveller-X
Don't forget: if you are setting off on a journey and want to know some useful travel tips, it's best to consult his website: www.travelstreet.com - go down the page and click on "reisfotografie" Happy viewing.