On a warm, late-summer morning, I pulled up to my first Southern California car meet—Rick Chew’s “Early Rodders.” This local gathering, held in the empty lot of a classic cinema, set the perfect scene for my first intentional automotive photoshoot. The energy was contagious, with car enthusiasts admiring each other’s rides and sharing stories. The atmosphere was more than just cars; it was a celebration of passion and craftsmanship. Here are some of my favorite shots from the event, capturing the essence of what it feels like to roll up and experience this special car culture firsthand.