Over a decade ago I walked away from a successful 6 figure career that many people would kill to have. The kind that you need to “know someone” to even be considered for. That job was slowly turning me into a person I didn’t want to be. So, I took a blind leap. A slightly calculated gamble. I decided to turn a passionate hobby into a career. Since that day, with plenty of bumps, I have managed to become an internationally acclaimed photographer. I have run workshops, mentored many creatives, and become a global ambassador for a major camera brand. People know the name Paul Von Rieter. I am very comfortable saying I’ve made it. I accomplished something I only dreamed about. It’s a good feeling... for a kid that grew up with soul crushing insecurities, low self worth, and a learning disability, I am fine bragging about who I have become. Needless to say, I wouldn’t be here without the help of so many friends, family, clients and industry relationships. No matter the contribution, each one of you had a hand in this success story. . Welp, here I am, in a distantly familiar situation... I started a new hobby a little while ago... and it’s become something more. That “I’ll give this a try because it looks fun” has evolved into a secondary creative outlet, one that people are asking me to share with them. So it’s time to take another blind leap. I haven’t made it official until now... but it’s time. :) . Von Rieter Hat Co. Est. 2022 . Thank you so much to all of my current and past clients. You helped me build this. To all my future clients, I’m excited to share my addiction with you. . To all my photography clients. Nothing is changing, I am still obsessed with creating visual heirlooms... I’m just adding what will hopefully become heirlooms for some. :) . Stay tuned to @vonrieter. That’s Von Rieter Hat Co’s new home on Instagram. . I’m holding one of my latest pieces, “The Vulture”. A heavily distressed, 100% beaver, gentle-roper-curl flat brim with a 4 inch crown and a hard front pinch. It’s quickly becoming my favorite... but I’ll make you one if you ask. :) . Image shot by @taylorkinziephoto on a @fujifilmx_us #gfx_100s with the #80mmf1.7