Living in Los Angeles: One Year Later

It’s been a little over a year since I decided to pack up my belongings, drive across the country and move to Los Angeles with my girlfriend Kirsten. Leaving behind my ageing father and the only State I’ve lived in for my entire adult life was the hardest decision of my life.  Reflecting back on my decision one year later, I’m glad I decided to move and it’s been the best decision for me.

I always daydreamed what it would be like to live here – and often wondered if the reality would live up to my lofty expectations. Between the weather, the abundant sunshine, palm trees, the beaches and beautiful coastline – what’s not to like? After living in NYC for almost the past seven years, one of the most overly populated cities in the world, I knew it was time for a change. 

I will always feel immensely grateful for the opportunity and professional & personal growth that New York City provided me. I often think about how many people around the world fantasize about moving to NYC and ‘making it’. And to think that I actually did it. I had (still have) a successful career and by far exceeded all expectations that I ever thought was possible growing up in rural Upstate NY. To this day, my father is still pleasantly surprised that I was able to truly make something of myself. Not to say he never thought it was possible – but living in such a rural area, the odds were stacked against me. 

But moving to California has been a revelation. Sure, at first it wasn’t easy. I had doubts of whether the move was the right one. I’m an extreme introvert and find it hard to fit in socially – which is probably why I’m attracted to photography and being behind the lens. I’m happier. I’m working out way more than I ever did living in NYC. The photographic opportunities are endless here. It has opened up a whole other world filled with inspiration and fulfillment. 

Here are just a few of my favorite shots I’ve been able to capture after one year living in Los Angeles – I hope you enjoy them.