Film log #4

Uhhhh, so I accidentally left some film sitting for a while. I just got it developed, but it was shot around the time I moved to San Francisco in May of 2024. Going through the footage made me realize how much I've learned about the city, its aesthetics, and its charm (contrasted against the reasons people might not like the city, for which there are many). But first, a detour to San Diego.

I drove down and stayed with my friend Rebecca, for her graduation from the University of San Diego. I got plopped into the middle of her life, during what I also experienced as a crazyyy time. I think you can really judge a person by the people they surround themselves with, and I know she is a great person (but I already knew that). It was a beautiful few days. She took me to see dope spots and to eat some good food. But, work and life called back in San Francisco.

The city is a lot to take in. Although it's only 7 x 7, it has so many distinct and segregated neighborhoods. Part of it can be attributed to the migration of people through the generations. A lot of it can be attributed to redlining and explicit segregation. (See The Color of Law by Richard Rothstein for a more in-depth analysis.) As I settled in, I tried out new places. I walked and drove through many neighborhoods. Some of it I didn't like (why is the Presidio a golf course???) A lot of it I loved.

Coming into the city, I knew that I was now entering as a gentrifier: simply put, I have a tech job and afford the tech prices the city charges. Everyone that's visited the city has immediately noted the stark disparities that exist around us. Many people sleep on the street out of necessity, while others party on rooftops (myself included). It's not lost on me the gravity of the situation here, and I have done what I can to address it in the ways I believe are right. My friends and I spent a lot of time talking and theorizing about these exact issues. Where I've landed is that I must give back to the communities that have lived here before me and will after me. They must be centered and often what they ask for is direct mutual aid. It's not getting easier to live in the city, and the reality is that money, food and shelter can extend that time here.

As difficult as it is for me to grapple with the previous thoughts I shared; life and work will continue. During the summer, I spent a lot of time outside enjoying the parks, beaches and clubs. The city really is beautiful. It's been collaged together by so many different people in different times, and you can really see it. Taking a second to fully appreciate the privilege I've been granted is an important part of what I believe to be my duty here.

There aren't a lot of photos in this roll that I'm choosing to share. Part of the process of moving in was taking really shitty photos of the city. I didn't know what to point my camera at so it pointed towards everything and anything. I do know that I can be redundant, but what I have photographed is a city that has existed before and will exist after me. Everyday, the Muni is packed with people just going about their commute. The streets got filled with people enjoying the summer air. The bars were alive, the drinks were flowing and the music was (sometimes) bumping. Some days it really hits how small a person can be in such a big city. Other days I'm reminded that this city is really a collection of everyone who has come through it. For better or for worse.

Until next time!