The Forgotten Giants: Finding Beauty in America’s Industrial Backbone
When people think of beauty in photography, they usually picture sunsets, mountains, or oceans. But for me, beauty isn’t just in nature — it’s in the towering steel bridges, weathered factories, and winding highways that hold this country together. They’re the forgotten giants of our landscape, and they deserve a second look.
As a structural designer, I see these structures not just as metal and concrete, but as symbols of resilience and purpose. And as a dad, I see something more: a reflection of the strength I hope to pass on to my kids.
Why I Photograph Structures Most People Overlook
There’s a quiet poetry in the rusted beams and faded paint of an old bridge. It’s easy to dismiss these structures as cold or utilitarian, but when you look closer, you see the story they tell — one of endurance, hard work, and time. The bridge doesn’t complain about the weight it carries. It just holds on, no matter the weather. That kind of quiet strength is something I want my kids to see and admire.
The Beauty of Imperfection
In a world obsessed with polish and perfection, I find comfort in the imperfect. The cracked concrete, rusted bolts, and weathered steel show that these structures have survived. They’ve faced storms, heavy loads, and decades of wear — and they’re still standing. That’s the kind of beauty I want to capture: the kind that doesn’t apologize for its scars.
A Dad’s Perspective on Strength and Survival
Being a solo dad isn’t easy. There are days I feel worn down, rusted at the edges, and barely holding things together. But when I look at the structures I photograph — the ones that have withstood decades of wear and tear — I’m reminded that strength doesn’t always look shiny and new. Sometimes, it looks a little battered. And that’s okay.
My hope is that my kids see this too — that they understand strength isn’t about being perfect. It’s about standing tall, even when life wears you down.