I was commissioned by Richmond Magazine to create a photo essay documenting the James River Park System and the wide range of outdoor experiences it offers within the city of Richmond.

Photographed over multiple days, the project focused on capturing real people engaging with the river, from hiking and climbing to kayaking, swimming, and exploring the trail system, highlighting the park as a unique urban destination for outdoor recreation. The James River Park System spans over 600 acres and attracts nearly 2 million visitors each year, making it one of Richmond’s most significant natural and recreational assets.

Rather than approaching the project as traditional landscape photography, I focused on activity-driven, human-centered moments that reflect how people actually experience the river, creating a narrative that feels immersive, accessible, and true to the city.

The final images were published as a multi-page feature story, helping showcase the James River Park System as a defining part of Richmond’s identity and a draw for both residents and visitors.