Series description
While the Palisades Fire raged on in January 2025, it left a state of pure chaos in its wake. The story of the flames is never in the heat itself, but in the destruction it leaves behind — in the houses that have disappeared in their entirety, the metal exoskeletons that remain, melted children’s toys, and ash-soaked swimming pools. As residents of the community fled what would come to be known as the most destructive wildfire in Los Angeles County history, some went to Santa Monica Pier to witness the horror from afar.
Flee
As the smoke kept rolling in, no living thing wanted to be trapped in it. This flock of crows circled the pier, signalling to anyone that could hear: ‘It is time to leave.’
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Toy
Flames have no sympathy — children's toys burn along with everything else.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Once a Paradise
Metal skeletons stare out at the remaining palm trees, a reminder that this was recently paradise.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Stairway to...
There was once a house here.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Desolate
Entire neighbourhoods were reduced to rubble, yet the sun continued to shine through the apocalyptic haze.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
Blank Stare
Newly exposed faces jump out from the rubble, staring back with hollow expressions.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards
The Pool
An ash-soaked swimming pool.
© Jacob Paley, United States, Shortlist, Professional Competition, Environment, 2026 Sony World Photography Awards