In an era dominated by frenetic digital imagery, Alon Goldsmith’s latest project offers a refreshing lens through which to view the world. The Johannesburg-born photographer, now based in Los Angeles, set out on New Year’s Day 2026 to embark on a year-long endeavour—a “365-day project” that challenges him to capture and share a photograph each day. On the 111th day of this creative journey, he produced a striking black-and-white portrait of a Hi-Spy Viewing Machine perched on the Santa Monica Pier, an image that encapsulates both solitude and observation amidst the bustling beach scene.
The Art of Daily Discovery
Goldsmith’s daily bike rides through Venice and Santa Monica are not merely a means of exercise; they are an exploration of visual narratives waiting to be uncovered. “I spend a lot of rides hunting for photos,” he explains, highlighting a deliberate approach to slowing down and engaging with his surroundings. This contemplative pace allows him to notice details that often go overlooked in our fast-paced lives.
The Hi-Spy Viewing Machine, a somewhat whimsical fixture on the pier, became Goldsmith’s muse for this particular day. He describes the area as a “cornucopia of curiosities,” brimming with potential photographic subjects. The choice to transform his capture into black and white during the editing process serves to heighten the image’s dramatic impact.
A Cinematic Transformation
“The change emphasises the graphic and cinematic nature of the composition,” Goldsmith notes, pointing out how the monochrome palette adds a sculptural quality to the clouds overhead. The inclusion of a solitary bird, which appears to be perched on the machine, imbues the scene with a sense of character, rendering the viewing machine as a “lonely character gazing out at an empty beach.” This anthropomorphism invites viewers to reflect on themes of solitude and observation in an increasingly distracted world.
Yet, Goldsmith remains committed to the ethics of street photography, refusing to erase any elements that might detract from the authenticity of the moment. “Tidying up, or erasing elements, like the swooping seagull or smudge of heaped sand, was out of the question,” he asserts. This dedication to authenticity not only preserves the integrity of his work but also enriches the narrative he seeks to convey.
The Challenge of Choice
While Goldsmith delights in the creative process, he admits that the project is not without its challenges. “On some days, it’s a struggle to find something worthy of being included, and on others, it’s a challenge to make a choice,” he confesses. The act of capturing a single moment each day compels him to engage with his environment in a meaningful way, forcing him to confront both the beauty and the banality of daily life.
This project serves as a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, urging others to slow down and appreciate the world around them. Goldsmith’s journey is not merely about documenting images; it is about cultivating a deeper connection with his surroundings, a sentiment that resonates with many in our digital age.
Why it Matters
Goldsmith’s project is a testament to the enduring power of photography as a medium for reflection and connection. In a time when images are often consumed and discarded in an instant, his commitment to capturing daily moments with intention invites us to reconsider our own relationship with the world. It’s a call to pause, observe, and engage more thoughtfully with our surroundings, a lesson that is both timely and timeless. In the hands of a skilled artist like Goldsmith, photography transcends mere visual representation; it becomes a profound exploration of human experience, solitude, and the beauty that lies within everyday life.