Photographer's 365-Day Project Captures Lonely Beach Machine 2026

Alon Goldsmith's 365-day photography project captures a lonely beach viewing machine in black and white, transforming an everyday object into a cinematic character. This image, taken on day 111 of his year-long journey, showcases the power of observation and the art of finding beauty in the mundane. As Goldsmith explains, the project pushes him to slow down and see the world from a fresh perspective, revealing stories hidden in plain sight.

The Story Behind the Photo

Johannesburg-born, LA-based photographer Alon Goldsmith began his 365-day project on New Year's Day 2026, committing to take and post a photo every day for a full year. On day 111, while on his daily bike ride through Venice and around Santa Monica Pier, he spotted a Hi-Spy Viewing Machine perched on the pier, gazing over the beach. The scene struck him as both graphic and cinematic, prompting him to capture it in black and white during editing.

Goldsmith notes that the black-and-white conversion emphasizes the dramatic clouds, adding sculptural weight to the composition. The presence of a bird perched on the machine anthropomorphizes it, turning it into a lonely character staring at an empty beach. This transformation is a testament to the photographer's eye for narrative and emotion in everyday scenes.

Why Black and White?

Black and white photography strips away color distractions, focusing the viewer on texture, contrast, and form. In this image, the clouds become more dramatic, and the machine's silhouette gains a timeless quality. Goldsmith's choice highlights the graphic nature of the scene, making it feel like a still from a film noir.

For photographers looking to elevate their work, experimenting with monochrome can reveal new dimensions. It forces you to consider light, shadow, and composition more deliberately, often resulting in more powerful storytelling.

Ethics of Street Photography

Goldsmith emphasizes that he did not alter the image by removing elements like the seagull or sand. The ethics of street photography forbid such manipulation, preserving the authenticity of the moment. This commitment to honesty is crucial in the genre, as it maintains trust between the photographer and the viewer.

Street photography thrives on capturing reality as it unfolds. By resisting the temptation to tidy up the frame, Goldsmith honors the spontaneity that makes this art form unique.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Photographers

• Commit to a daily practice to sharpen your observational skills.
• Experiment with black and white to emphasize mood and composition.
• Respect the ethics of street photography by not altering images.
• Look for narrative potential in ordinary objects and scenes.
• Use a bike or walking route to discover new perspectives.

Comparison: Color vs. Black and White Photography

How to Start Your Own 365-Day Project

Starting a daily photo project can be daunting, but it's a powerful way to grow as a photographer. Begin with a theme or goal, such as capturing one interesting object each day. Use a smartphone or any camera you have, and don't worry about perfection—focus on consistency.

Goldsmith's project demonstrates that even on difficult days, a compelling image can emerge. The key is to keep looking, keep shooting, and let the world reveal itself to you.

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