Tracie Morris Schaefer
author
Tracie has been a professional photographer for over 20 years. She opened her New Orleans based company, Studio U, LLC., in 2005, immediately following Hurricane Katrina. The demand for her services to document people and industry in all facets including portrait, editorial and lifestyle continue to grow. Her current role is expanding to that of videographer and art director. With the support of her husband and two children, Schaefer began a new chapter as the author of an award winning children’s book. The Greenest Tree has provided Schaefer the opportunity to teach children about the environment and create awareness for coastal restoration efforts.
Rhett Thiel
Illustrator
Rhett Thiel is a graphic designer, illustrator, and consultant based in New Orleans. He has worked with a broad client base promoting films and directing creative campaigns for financial services, festivals, energy producers and athletic sponsorships. Rhett earned a BA in Media Arts from Tulane University, and cut his teeth as a freelance illustrator, mural painter, and Mardi Gras float designer. He continues to work with pencil and brush while fulfilling a passion for children’s book illustrations.