THE GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE



I began photographing the Golden Gate Bridge in 2002 as photography transitioned from my hobby to my passion. Initially, it was out of convenience that I chose to shoot the Gate. The Bridge is just 25 miles from my home so the subject seemed the perfect combination of accessibility for me and, as one of the most famous structures in the world, interest to anyone who might view the work.



Acknowledging the Golden Gate Bridge as one of the most photographed structures in the world, I set out to capture just a few intriguing and, hopefully, unique perspectives that might compliment the seascapes in my portfolio. As someone who would rather avoid crowds, another goal was to do my very best to miss the herds of tourists while on and around the Bridge...



Seven years later, and to my surprise, I have become one of the Gate's regulars ~ a local tourist amongst the crowds ~ and still awestruck every time I visit. I know that while I may take a few breaks, this ongoing project is far from complete.



Ironically, I finished this first book on May 27th, 2009 unaware of the following historical dates: The Golden Gate Bridge was officially completed on May 25th, 1937 ; Open to pedestrians on May 27th and open to automobiles on May 28th, when the toll was just $.50 (now $6)... "The Mighty Task is Done", wrote Chief Engineer Joseph B. Strauss... Well, Thanks Mr. Strauss & Crew and Happy 72nd Golden Gate!



I captured these images on film, then printed and toned them on silver-gelatin paper in my home darkroom.



Jason Mullins, 2009 | www.jasonamullins.com