Sierra Pixel is the studio of landscape photographer Markus Erler, based in Innsbruck, Austria. Since 2012, the studio has focused on documenting natural environments — from Alpine glaciers to Arctic coastlines, from Patagonian steppe to Namibian desert.

The work sits at the intersection of fine art and environmental documentation. Every project begins with research: reading geological surveys, studying weather patterns, consulting with local guides. The goal is never just a pretty picture — it's an accurate, evocative record of a place at a particular moment in time.

Background

Markus studied geophysics at ETH Zürich before turning to photography full-time in 2010. That scientific background informs the studio's approach: systematic, patient, and grounded in an understanding of the landscapes being photographed.

His work has been exhibited at the Tromsø Arctic Museum, the Alpine Museum in Munich, and the Patagonia Gallery in Buenos Aires. Published in National Geographic Traveller, Outdoor Photography, and GEO Magazine.

Awards & Recognition

2024

International Landscape Photographer of the Year — Shortlist

Alpine Series selected for the final 20 from 4,200 entries.

2023

Sony World Photography Awards — Commended

Svalbard Glacier Series in the Environment category.

2021

Outdoor Photographer of the Year — Winner, Landscape

Torres del Paine Reflections — single image award.

2019

Norwegian Polar Institute Commission

Selected for the Svalbard environmental documentation project (2019–2020).

Get in Touch

Contact Form

Studio Details

Location

Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria
Studio visits by appointment only

Email

General: studio@sierra-pixel.com
Licensing: rights@sierra-pixel.com

Availability

Workshop bookings open for 2025 season
Print orders: 2–3 week turnaround