While photography is now considered art, not so long ago it was not as highly regarded as fine art. Photography and its admirers can thank Alfred Stieglitz for championing the cause to elevate it to a respected craft.

Stieglitz happens to have been born in Hoboken. Unlike some famous folk who were born here and sought to erase their hometown, he embraced his heritage and his calling. One of his most famous quotes comes from an exhibition catalogue for a solo show in 1921 at the Anderson Galleries in New York. It includes a reference to his hometown:

“I was born in Hoboken. I am an American. Photography is my passion. The search for truth is my obsession.”

I am obsessed with words and their craft. Yet I greatly admire photographers for the succinct way they capture a story with one image. So it should be no surprise to hMAG readers that the photographer chosen for this Rave is award winning photographer Robert Wagner. In his work outside of the magazine, Wagner strives to tell the personal stories of his subjects.

When the subject doesn’t speak, let the image convey the message. We all stand on the bones of greatness. Thank you Alfred Stieglitz.