In the decade between 1955 and 1965, Düsseldorf-born Horst H. Baumann was one of the most innovative and successful photographers of his generation. From scratch, the self-taught artist found a visual language that was radically different from the trends and fashions of his time. What characterizes Baumann's early black and white photography is, on the one hand, an honest interest in social issues and, on the other hand, the consistent search for his own expression in camera art. Even in the seemingly most banal subject, he discovered a worthwhile motif through the targeted use of partial sharpness, through bold cropping or cropping or sought-after perspectives. Children playing, fairgrounds, parades, the Rhenish carnival, but also the world of mining and industry became his first self-chosen topics. Baumann took part in exhibitions, secured prizes and was omnipresent in the press of those years. He also began to make a name for himself as a color photographer. His photographs from the world of Formula 1 in particular made him internationally known and, in retrospect, a pioneer of color photographic art. Most recently, Baumann appeared in public primarily as a laser artist. This volume is a rediscovery of the exceptional photographic talent and for the first time honors his contribution to “New Color”.