In 1970, photographer Mike Mandel recognized the central role cars played in daily California life. To document this, he stationed himself on a specific corner in the San Fernando Valley. During late afternoons, he stood at the busy intersection of Victory Boulevard and Coldwater Canyon Avenue in Van Nuys. The low sun in the west provided strong natural light as cars slowed down to make a right turn toward him. This specific location provided a constant stream of subjects for his camera.
Getting Up Close
Mandel captured these images using a 35mm camera fitted with a 28mm wide-angle lens. This specific equipment meant he could not stand back at a comfortable distance. To get the shot, he had to physically approach the vehicles and get right up next to the car window. The open window frame itself became an essential part of the composition, defining the borders of these momentary portraits.
Driver Reactions
Because Mandel was so close to the vehicles, the occupants always noticed him. Their immediate reactions varied as they suddenly saw a camera pointed in their direction. Some faces showed genuine surprise, while others registered amusement at the unexpected encounter. A small number of people expressed annoyance at the intrusion. However, the majority of drivers and passengers enjoyed being recognized by the camera and willingly participated in the brief, playful interaction.
The Open Window Environment
The warm California climate was a key factor in making these photographs possible. Car windows were routinely rolled down to cool off the interior. This lack of a glass barrier removed the separation between the sidewalk and the driver’s seat. The open environment allowed for a direct, unguarded connection between the photographer and the inhabitants of the cars during that era.
