I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 with my Ford sedan packed to the brim and my cat, Petey, hiding under the driver’s seat. I made the cross- country trek from the Midwest with a dream of becoming an on-set photographer for feature films and television. However, for the longest time, I did anything but work as a photographer. I worked as a babysitter, a bartender and a travel coordinator. After several years, I became frustrated. I knew I had to try something new.
Inspired by a suggestion from a friend, I began a photography project called, “The Photo of the Week.” Every Sunday evening, I sent out an image of Los Angeles to my email list. It turned out to be a great way to practice my craft, while actively pursuing work in my chosen field.
52 Weeks in Los Angeles is a selection of images taken from that project. From 2006 to 2016, I traversed the terrain of my new city, and discovered people, places and landscapes. Through these experiences, I uncovered truths about myself. It took great effort for me to break the barrier and interact with strangers on the street. I was, and actually still am, acutely aware of my shyness. I also realized what was going on in my personal life had an effect on what I chose to photograph. My weekly series quickly became a visual journal.
Although I experimented with portraiture, still life, nightscapes and anything else that appeared organically, my intention was to capture candid moments. The project became so entwined with my life that I would feel unsettled if I did not send out an image on Sunday evening.
Through ten years of weekly assignments, I learned an enormous amount about my creative medium, myself and my city. I came to love Los Angeles for all its quirks, unique landscapes and distinct light quality, as well as the seemingly unlimited amount of interesting souls who inhabit it.
