When I met Sonja Rieger over 25 years ago as a young entry level photographer, I never would imagined having the opportunity to work professionally for her all these years later. You see, she was my first photography professor during my time at UAB. I was in her beginner photography course, where I learned the basics of darkroom techniques and developing film.
Over the years, we have crossed paths off and on through the photography world. I rented a dark room space from her back in 2010 and have attended a handful of her exhibits. She has since retired from the teaching realm and has pursued her personal work. She is highly respected and well known in the art and photography community for her work on political and cultural aspects of the American South. She has truly helped pave the path for up and coming photographers in the art world.
Her role as a fine art photographer has not only influenced and inspired me over the years but also encouraged me to be brave enough to break away from the mainstream photography world I was once part of.
So when she called on me, it truly was a breath of fresh air. She, of all people, understands the importance of original work and being authentic to your style! To have had the opportunity to share my vision with her, on such a special occasion, truly does mean the world to me and I thank her for the inclusion!!
Having the opportunity to document and observe her with the people she loves most was a great honor! I enjoyed meeting her husband as well as all their friends and family. It was a beautiful celebration that I will hold dear to me for many years!
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