In 2008, when I began working at Alabama Heritage as a student, I was assigned an article to fact check and prepare for publication. While gathering possible images for the story, I was told that anything I chose might not be “Robin McDonald approved.” A few days into production of the summer issue, I received a phone call—my first of many over the years—from Robin. After our conversation, he hung up and phoned our editor at that time, Donna Cox Baker, and said, “I think she’ll work out well.” Even better, he approved the images I’d chosen—well, most of them.
Robin—a native of England and an award-winning designer and photographer—designs Alabama Heritage, a contract lasting for thirty-two years. Besides making our publication beautiful, Robin also has been our lead photographer, trekking across the state to take photos for our annual Places in Peril feature as well as other stories along the way. He’s photographed opulent buildings, historic landmarks, and dilapidated ruins around the state. We’ve traveled together to remote and urban locations, and Robin always got the perfect shot. Sometimes Robin’s dedication required him to be waist deep in woods or lying on his back in an abandoned building to get a full view of an architectural piece on the ceiling. Regardless the setting, Robin was always keen to find the best image to use, allowing the magazine’s articles to come to life. For that we are forever grateful.
Over the years, Robin and I have shared many conversations—some hours long—discussing everything from the magazine to books, music, and movies. We’ve struggled over choosing just the right image for an article, agonized over not being able to obtain permission for the perfect photo, worked together on proof changes late into the night, and celebrated a completed issue with delicious Indian food (complete with Robin’s favorite mango chutney, of course). No matter how long it took, Robin’s love for the magazine and his dedication to his craft was always paramount.
But it is with this issue that we must say goodbye. Alabama Heritage is embarking on a new path beginning with its Spring 2024 issue, with a new design, new content, and a new designer.
We (most of all, I) will miss Robin, yet I know he will spend his years continuing his meaningful work and bringing locations in our beautiful state and world to life.
Over the years, Robin and I have shared many conversations—some hours long—discussing everything from the magazine to books, music, and movies. We’ve struggled over choosing just the right image for an article, agonized over not being able to obtain permission for the perfect photo, worked together on proof changes late into the night, and celebrated a completed issue with delicious Indian food (complete with Robin’s favorite mango chutney, of course). No matter how long it took, Robin’s love for the magazine and his dedication to his craft was always paramount.
But it is with this issue that we must say goodbye. Alabama Heritage is embarking on a new path beginning with its Spring 2024 issue, with a new design, new content, and a new designer.
We (most of all, I) will miss Robin, yet I know he will spend his years continuing his meaningful work and bringing locations in our beautiful state and world to life.
This letter was written by Susan E. Reynolds in Issue 151, Winter 2024.