Gerd Ludwig, considered one of the world's leading photojournalists, gives a free public lecture, "Soul and Meaning," 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 22, in the University of Hawai'i-Manoa's Yukiyoshi Room, Krauss Hall 012.

Educated as a photographer at an art college in Germany, Ludwig's work, primarily for National Geographic magazine, relating to the ecology and the social and economic changes in Russia and East Germany, resulted in the publication of his book, "Broken Empire: After the Fall of the USSR," a 10-year retrospective published by National Geographic.He is one of Canon's Explorers of Light, a group of the world's leading professional photographers who provide insight, inspiration, and education to future generations of creative photographers.

Ludwig is a veteran of the "A Day in the Life" book series and has won numerous photographic awards, including the IPA's 2006 Lucie Award for International Photographer of the Year.

His lecture will spans his earliest work, from his short stories for publications worldwide to his long-term coverage of current issues, such as the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster or the ongoing political and economic changes in Russia today.

He will also share the techniques and personal approaches he uses while on assignment for National Geographic, including his choice of lenses, lighting, and flash to capture atmosphere and mood.

For more information on Ludwig, and to see a gallery of his work, visit www.gerdludwig.com.

For more information about the University of Hawai'i lecture, call 956-8244 or visit www.outreach.hawaii.edu/pnm.