I recently had the privilege of capturing Rydder Hogan’s senior session at the Iowa State Fair, and let me tell you, this session was an absolute blast! With the fair as our backdrop, it felt like the perfect setting to highlight Rydder’s love for agriculture, cattle, and the country lifestyle he lives and breathes. Rydder, a Lenox High School senior, will be graduating on May 25, 2025, and has big plans for his future—he’s headed to welding school after graduation. It was clear from the moment we started shooting that he’s someone who knows how to work hard and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. Whether it’s working on trucks in the shop or showing cattle at competitions, Rydder is always up for a challenge. Speaking of cattle, one of Rydder’s greatest accomplishments is winning Reserve Grand Champion Angus at none other than the Iowa State Fair itself. Being able to photograph him in the same place where he achieved that milestone felt incredibly special. His pride and connection to the fair were evident throughout the shoot. In between capturing photos, I got to know a little more about what makes Rydder tick. He’s got a love for baseball, enjoys hunting, and can often be found riding horses or hanging out with his best friend, Chase England. His favorite music is a mix of country and red dirt, with artists like Koe Wetzel and Flatland Calvary on repeat. As a country boy through and through, it’s no surprise that steak is his go-to meal. When I asked him what he’ll miss most about high school, he mentioned some of the teachers—but he won’t miss the lunches - they don't server those home grown steaks! His favorite class has been Ag Class, which aligns perfectly with his love for working on the farm. As for advice to underclassmen, Rydder kept it simple: "Be nice." We wrapped up the first part of his senior session with a few fun shots that captured his easy-going yet driven personality. His favorite quote, "Not Medal, Gold Medal" by Tom Brands, sums up his mentality of always striving for the best. I’m so excited to continue this journey with Rydder as we gear up for his next session. There’s so much more to showcase about this awesome senior, and I can’t wait to share it with you all. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deeper into his passions and future goals! Until then, congrats on all your accomplishments so far, Rydder—I can't wait to see where life takes you!