Photographer Captures Everyday Variety of Cyclists on the Williamsburg Bridge
The Williamsburg Bridge serves as a vital conduit in New York City, linking Manhattan and Brooklyn. As reported by the city administration, in 2022, approximately 92,000 vehicles, 4,000 pedestrians, and 7,000 cyclists crossed the Williamsburg Bridge daily. Photographer Adam DiCarlo focuses on the latter group, documenting the diverse array of commuters traveling across the Williamsburg Bridge.
DiCarlo, a freelance photographer and videographer, was inspired to capture candid shots of New York’s cyclists following a hospitalization a year and a half prior. Eager to connect more with both individuals and the city, he snapped a test photo one day while crossing the Williamsburg Bridge toward Manhattan.
“Recognizing the opportunity for a frame that encapsulates the spirit of both the city and its inhabitants,” he tells My Modern Met, “I began getting up at 6 a.m. frequently to visit the bridge and seize the morning light as it illuminates the early morning commuters.”
DiCarlo’s photographs, which he posts on his @ridersnyc Instagram account, illustrate the countless narratives that constitute New York and keep the bridge vibrant. Commuters heading to their offices, delivery personnel, seasoned cyclists equipped with high-end gear, and leisure riders are all present. There are private vehicles and Citi bikes; both helmeted and bareheaded riders; clothing suited for all seasons; individuals spanning various ages and backgrounds.
To capture these images, DiCarlo establishes himself on the Manhattan side of the Williamsburg Bridge, “facing east—looking back over the bridge,” he shares. The photographer benefits from a narrow concrete ramp that compels cyclists to proceed in single file through the two concrete pillars framing each picture.
The responses to having their portrait taken by DiCarlo have varied as much as the riders themselves. “Mostly surprised joy, along with a few middle fingers and the occasional curse or two,” the photographer mentions. “Many smiles and nods, and even the occasional speedy high five. It feels like a little energy boost in the morning, and seemingly for others as well. Something to anticipate, I would hope.”
For DiCarlo, the most rewarding aspect of this project is recognizing those who contribute to New York City yet often go unnoticed. “Whether it’s the small items someone carries or individuals like messengers and delivery workers who often get overlooked.”
DiCarlo reports that an exhibition and book launch related to this project are currently in development, noting his intention to present some photographs and a short film at a venue in the Lower East Side. To keep up with him and the Williamsburg Bridge riders, you can follow Adam DiCarlo on Instagram.
Photographer Adam DiCarlo documents the diverse group of commuters crossing the Williamsburg Bridge every day.
“Recognizing the opportunity for a frame that encapsulates the spirit of both the city and its inhabitants, I began getting up at 6 a.m. frequently to visit the bridge and seize the morning light as it illuminates the early morning commuters.”
DiCarlo’s photographs capture the thousands of faces, each with their own unique story, that contribute to New York and sustain the bridge’s vitality.
Included are office-bound commuters, delivery individuals, seasoned cyclists with premium equipment, and leisurely riders; these encompass people across all ages and backgrounds.
To take these photos, DiCarlo sets up on the Manhattan side of the Williamsburg Bridge, “facing east—looking back over the bridge,” he explains.
The photographer utilizes a narrow concrete ramp, which requires cyclists to proceed in single file between the two concrete pillars that frame each image.
For DiCarlo, the most fulfilling part of this initiative is acknowledging those who form the fabric of New York City yet remain largely unnoticed by many.
“It feels like a little boost of energy in the morning, and seemingly for others too. Something to look forward to I would hope.”
Adam DiCarlo: <a href="