Pride at Riis Beach – New York City
I was slightly weary last year before walking into this scene as a straight white guy wanting to take pictures. I didn’t feel like it was my place, and I didn’t know if people would be annoyed. But I can’t stress one point enough: This crowd is all about inclusivity. They don’t care one bit if you’re the boring basic dude who has nothing queer or colorful about himself. If inclusivity comes their way, it’s all open arms, no matter who you are.
I recently realized that for me, the photos come second, and my own (selfish) experience comes first. That being said, I’m confident that the better time I have, the better the result. The greatest gift photography has given me is to have an excuse to go up to anybody and start talking to them and connect.
I recognized a beautiful soul that I had photographed with her friends last year and we laughed our asses off taking more silly photos this time around (first photo).
THANK YOU to my homies for bringing me and to the many people I photographed at Riis Beach again this year 🏳️🌈❤️
