Author and photographer Sara Rieth-Photographing the Best ManAuthor and photographer Sara Rieth-Photographing the Best Man
J Hirtle The Last Storyteller
Sara Rieth shares her journey from wedding photographer to romance novelist, discussing how real-life experiences inspire her writing and character development.
37:33•16 Jan 2026
Romance and Reality: Sara Rieth's Unique Take on Love Stories
Episode Overview
- Authentic dialogue stems from real-life experiences.
- Character development requires distinct voices.
- Balancing romance with realistic elements enhances storytelling.
- Social media is crucial for book marketing.
- Real-life cues can inspire fictional narratives.
“"There are cues all the time that if we're paying attention, we can pick up on those things."”
Curious about how others navigate their sobriety journey? This episode of 'J Hirtle The Last Storyteller' features the multi-talented Sara Rieth, a seasoned wedding photographer and author of the romance novel 'Photographing the Best Man.' With over 300 weddings under her belt, Sara shares her journey from capturing magical moments behind the lens to penning her first novel.
The book isn't your typical how-to on wedding photography; instead, it's a romance story filled with drama, love triangles, and a sprinkle of real-life inspiration from Sara's experiences in the wedding industry. Sara talks candidly about the challenges and joys of writing, from using her own photographs for the book cover to the intricacies of character development. She reveals how her real-life interactions with couples and her own personal experiences shaped the authentic dialogue and body language in her story.
The conversation is peppered with humorous anecdotes and heartfelt insights into the world of indie publishing, offering invaluable advice for aspiring writers. If you've ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at weddings or how real-life experiences can transform into compelling fiction, this episode is a must-listen.
As Sara puts it, 'there are cues all the time that if we're paying attention, we can pick up on those things.' Tune in for a delightful blend of romance, creativity, and a dash of reality. Ready to dive into a world where love stories unfold both in front of the camera and on the page? Grab your headphones and join J Hirtle and Sara Rieth for an inspiring chat.

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