I Owe Much to This Fine Gentleman, a 25th Year Reminiscence

t’s been so busy this year there hasn’t been as much time to look back on 25 years (more than 25 in this case) of Photography G as I thought. Maybe I’ll continue a bit in the new year!

While my profession began part time, shooting concerts when I was underage, the full scope of where my craft could and would go, came into focus when I met Heinz Richter.

The day I “interviewed” him to study photography under his tutelage would change the course of my life. Our first funny banter was right then. He said (in thick, awesome German accent) “Well, I must say I have never had anyone interview me to come to school!” I explained I was referred by his best student ever and it was my intention to unseat her (which I did) and wanted to be coached along the way, to be the best. And not spend my time and money on retreading what I had already learned. He said “I will tailor your portfolio however you like”.

From that moment, it was game on. I parked a recent law school acceptance for a year, and the next day started telling people I am a photographer. And poof! “Do you do this?” Yep! “Do you do these?” Yep! And I ran to Heinz before school even officially began and said “How do you do this? And this?”

He will tell you, it had been a long, long time since he crossed anyone with my thirst and enthusiasm. It lit him up.

We fed off each other. He let me use his personal darkroom. Shared his photo paper with me. Gave me a key to the school (I would arrive at around 7am before him and often lock up around midnight and do it again the next day). We did astounding shoots together as well. A couple of the best years of my life!

We had some of the best tear-provoking, belly laughs, EVER! Cooked some amazing meals, knocked back plenty of beers (German of course). And to this day we remain great friends. Even though now I am older than he was when I began my “mentorship”, I am still learning my craft and I can turn to him for answers to my questions. He remains a bottomless pit of knowledge.

Heinz, thanks for everything. Teacher, mentor and most importantly friend.

I love you, Garrett (Herr Hacking).