Jenkem Magazine recently launched an exciting project: disposable cameras were sent to a curated selection of skateboarders, artists, and musicians across the globe. The challenge was simple: capture the world through their lens, without rules or digital enhancements. The results were showcased in a gallery show in NYC over Memorial Day weekend, highlighting the raw and unfiltered perspectives of these creatives.
The project had its share of mishaps. Some cameras returned in pieces, while others vanished entirely, perhaps embarking on adventures exceeding even the wildest travel aspirations. But after developing all the photos with Kevin Horn, Jenkem curated the best shots from each roll, culminating in a public gallery show in NYC. It was the first time any of the participants got to see their own photos from the project.
Printing costs can be astronomical, so Jenkem partnered with Huf and Monster Energy Ultra to bring the disposable camera concept to life. Full rolls from each participant are expected to be posted soon, offering an even deeper dive into their unique visions.
The event itself, held in New York’s Lower East Side, was a classic Jenkem affair: copious amounts of beer, loud music, and a flurry of flash photography. Here’s a glimpse into the faces and moments that made the Disposable Camera show a night to remember. You can check out every photo from the show HERE.
Lizzie Armanto:
Seeing Lizzie Armanto is always a treat, and predicting her hair color beforehand has become a tradition. Red was a strong favorite this time, but the real jackpot was betting on her rocking cheetah pants too.
Jerome Peels:
Jerome Peels is a unifying force, bridging the gap between skaters and BMX riders. A pro model CitiBike might be in the works, but a property damage arrest warrant could arrive even sooner.
Ishod Wair:
Does Ishod Wair’s family analyze his skating clips with the same fervor as skaters? “That’s my Ishod, back lipping a double kink. Just like I taught him.”
Meatball:
Meatball, standing in the middle, boasts one of the last authentic nicknames in the city. Nowadays, kids are too sensitive for nicknames, often preferring their Instagram handles in real life.
Skinny Jeans & Corsets:
While the fashion world ponders the return of skinny jeans, the real question is: who will create the first skate-friendly corset?
Carlisle Aikens:
Think modeling is a breeze? Think again. From posing for cameras to holding water bottles and inventing new ways to misspell Carlisle, it all takes effort.
Terry Barentsen:
It was bicycle extraordinaire Terry Barentsen who stopped by on his way to a wedding. Apologies for the shirtless Jenkem staff, the setup was down to the wire, and it was hot in there.
Justin Henry:
Justin Henry’s lady friend may have debuted an NBD by arriving in a wedding veil. Let us know the date, Justin! We’re happy to cater hot dogs for the reception, just like the 999 challenge.
Gus Bus:
This was two out of eight Monster hard seltzer shotguns for Gus Bus. Number six fueled a selfie with Ishod, and number eight sparked an intimate encounter with a garbage can.
Wes Wellner:
Peace, love, and ladies, huh Wes? Interns know exactly what they’re doing, and Wes has it down to a science.
Noah Clothing Team:
Young and desperate Naval crews often search New York City for a slip to dock their ship and let some seamen loose, or maybe this is the new Noah clothing team.
New Jersey Perm:
When a guy’s hair is long enough for a man bun, they call it a New Jersey Perm, because it gets you permanently banned from everywhere except New Jersey.
Greg Navarro:
It’s very rare to find our friend & videographer Greg Navarro without a camera in at least one hand, but even the most dedicated lensmen deserve a slice of cold pizza sometimes.
Chinatown Soccer Club:
Chinatown Soccer Club was in the building! Perhaps Kang was too busy, so CSC honchos Pep Kim and Gerhard Stochl had to suffice.
NYC Bartenders:
You can’t call yourself a New York bartender if you’re not wearing a white tank top and covered in patchwork tattoos. Cam and Jesse crushed it.
Gabriel Fortunato:
Seeing Gabriel Fortunato in NYC means two things: the list of ABDs just got longer, and we might actually see some clips from King Skateboards.
Jenkem Magazine:
If you were told that starting a magazine based on poop jokes and Jereme Rogers’ rap career would lead to photos like this, would you believe it?
Matt Militano:
This photo of Matt Militano could be the cover of any wedding party promoter’s website, but hey, getting added to the Sci-Fi roster deserves celebration.
Photo Show Free For All:
The best part about photo shows is that everything is up for grabs at the end. Want a sexy Suciu on your wall? No problem! Want a thoughtful snapshot of two people mooning the camera? You got it! Want a healthcare system that doesn’t suck rat balls? Too bad.
NYC Party Essentials:
It’s not an NYC party unless you’re smoking a cigarette outside next to piles of garbage overflowing with discarded ramen noodles.
Disposable Camera Project Success:
Considering we mailed out all the cameras in April, with a deadline of getting everything shot, developed, and hung up in a gallery in May, pulling off this event was another miracle for the books. By the bootstraps baby, cheers!
The Jenkem Disposable Camera project captured a unique moment in time, showcasing the world through the eyes of skaters, artists, and musicians. The raw, unfiltered aesthetic of disposable photography offered a refreshing contrast to the polished imagery that dominates today’s digital landscape. From impromptu portraits to candid street scenes, the photos provided an intimate glimpse into the lives and perspectives of these creative individuals. The success of the gallery show proves that sometimes, the most compelling art comes from embracing simplicity and spontaneity.
