Before leaving Germany, Sophie had been a portrait photographer.

Sophie paid a visit to the USA in March 1938, possibly to investigate emigration prospects for herself and Rudolph. The following year Sophie and Rudolph were both in England, although at different addresses: Sophie in Liverpool (possibly where she had landed on her return from America) and Rudolph in London.

In passenger lists for another visit to America in August to November of 1949 they gave an address in London.