Born in 1952 in Stuttgart, Germany, Joe Wuerfel began his photographic journey shortly after completing school, working as an assistant to renowned photographer Franz Lazi in Stuttgart. He later continued his training in Paris as assistant to celebrated French photographer Jeanloup Sieff, before moving to Carmel, California, where he assisted legendary American photographer Brett Weston. He also worked as a freelance assistant in New York, USA.

At the age of 26, Joe Wuerfel launched his career as a freelance photographer, opening studios in Munich, Germany, and Zurich, Switzerland. Later, he moved with his wife and two sons to Miami Beach, USA, while continuing to travel extensively and work across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Throughout his international career, he has produced photography for major fashion and advertising campaigns worldwide. His deep connection with Africa led him to live among the Himba tribe in Namibia, where he documented their traditional lifestyle through a remarkable body of photographic work.

Joe Wuerfel has worked for prestigious international publications and cultural projects, including Le Monde in Paris and collaborations with the legendary Cape Verdean singer Cesária Évora for Lusafrica, Paris.

Alongside his commercial work, he became increasingly involved in humanitarian and charitable projects across Africa, particularly supporting the Wakina Mama na Watoto Foundation in Tanzania.

His artistic work has received awards from Kodak and the Graphic Club Germany for his acclaimed photo-art calendars featuring African countries.

Today, Joe Wuerfel lives between Mindelo, Cape Verde, and Zurich.