Survivors

Survivors captures the stark beauty of Ojai’s landscape after the devastating Thomas Fire of December 2016. Through vivid color photographs, this series reveals the haunting transformation of once-lush hills reduced to ash and surreal textures.

I was in Los Angeles when the fire began, thinking it wouldn’t reach my home. By morning, Ojai was surrounded. I rushed back, packed essentials, and evacuated, hoping for the best.

Returning days later, I found a dramatically altered landscape. The fire burned 281,893 acres, causing over $2.2 billion in damage, leaving a lasting impact on the region. These images document destruction and resilience, highlighting how nature continues to evolve after wildfire.

Best viewed in large format prints or on the biggest screen you can find.