Photographer and ranger Hubert Schreier from Breitenbach has unveiled his latest nature calendar for 2026, showcasing stunning wildlife photography from the Fulda region. The calendar, which features 13 captivating images of local animals, birds, and insects, is now available at Hoehlsche Bookstore in Bebra for 20 euros. Schreier's mission extends beyond simply creating beautiful imagery – he aims to inspire young people to reconnect with nature and spend less time online.
For two decades, creating an annual photo calendar has been a passion project for the 63-year-old nature photographer and ranger. The 2026 edition displays a diverse collection of wildlife moments captured in areas around the Fulda river region. The calendar's cover and twelve monthly pages feature a variety of birds, insects, and wild animals – images that Schreier says can only be captured through patient and attentive observation of nature. As a ranger, he is responsible for maintaining natural areas, protecting wildlife, and educating the public about environmental conservation.
Schreier's journey into photography began in childhood when he was regularly taken hunting by his father and grandfather. However, his father quickly realized that hunting wasn't for him and instead gave him an old analog camera. "While the others went stalking, I took photographs," Schreier recalls. He admits his early attempts weren't always successful, remembering one particularly disappointing experience: "At first, I thought it was quite simple. I photographed everything that came before my lens, only to discover later that no film was loaded. The photos of the Egyptian geese existed only in my head."
Despite these early mishaps, photography has remained a lifelong passion for Schreier. His partner, Katrin Schmidt-Brandt, whom he credits as "the brilliant mind behind the 2026 calendar project," believes photography is in his blood. "He knows when things are going to happen. When he hears a bird, he can tell from the sound whether it's about to take flight, is hunting, or is coming home," she explains. Schmidt-Brandt works behind the scenes, coordinating the project and ensuring no photos are duplicated in the calendar.
Beyond creating beautiful wall decorations, Schreier has a deeper mission for his calendar. "I want to inspire new generations to immerse themselves more in nature and less in the internet," he states. This philosophy drives his work as a ranger for Bebra's urban development department, where he conducts nature tours and plans to incorporate photography tips into his future guided walks. The photographer has maintained this annual tradition for twenty years, initially producing the calendars himself before moving to professional printing.
Schreier is transparent about his motivations, admitting, "I don't make much money from this. My intention is to get some people to move into nature." His commitment to environmental education over profit reflects his genuine desire to foster a connection between people and the natural world around them.
The Hoehlsche Bookstore in Bebra enthusiastically supports Schreier's mission. Store employee Sarah Bierschenk expresses joy in serving as a regional platform for local photographers and authors, helping to distribute their products to the community. The bookstore's support enables regional artists like Schreier to reach audiences who share their passion for nature and photography.
The 2026 nature calendar represents more than just a collection of beautiful wildlife photographs – it serves as a bridge between the digital age and the natural world. Through his lens, Schreier captures moments that remind viewers of the incredible biodiversity that exists in their own backyard around the Fulda region, encouraging them to step outside and experience these wonders firsthand.
