This series documents the Santa Monica pier, combining landscapes of the iconic location and portraits of strangers— both Los Angeles locals and visiting tourists. My approach ignores the vibrant colors and chaos that usually make up the pier. I photographed on gloomy days with heavy fog during the morning, before the crowds. This project was a way for me to confront my anxiety around photographing strangers. Ultimately, it combines images of people and a place that work together to create a unique definition of an iconic space.

Shot on Mamiya RZ67

120mm, darkroom enlargements