SoBe vs Coney

SoBe vs Coney is a photo zine juxtaposing the beach cultures of South Beach, Miami, and Coney Island, New York. From the mundane to the unexpected, these iconic places of leisure and refuge are candidly observed and documented. Irony, humor, coincidence, the occasional decisive moment, and the implausible are intentionally framed to highlight the unique nature of each location, bringing the commonalities of human experience to the forefront. All photos were made between 2016 and 2024 using Leica cameras.

• Paperback
• 40 pages
• 5.5 x 8.5 inches
• Printed on 100lb uncoated paper
• Limited 2nd edition, signed and numbered

Brian Demby is a photographer born and raised in Los Angeles. He discovered his passion for photography while seeking a creative outlet apart from his turbulent career in music production. His approach to photography is heavily influenced by his past experiences: he spent much of the 90s skateboarding and has worked as a music producer and mix engineer since 2004. Demby also holds a BA in Politics from the University of California, Santa Cruz. Where skateboarding taught him the importance of self-expression and style, music production sharpened his skills in observing detail and human emotion. His study of politics inspired him to incorporate social commentary into his art.

As a photographer, Demby takes on the role of an observer, documenting the genuine, unique, and fleeting moments of everyday life. Using intentional framing, he brings together shapes, humor, and coincidences to create images that highlight everything from the mundane to the implausible. His goal is to reveal aspects of the human experience in ways that are both thought-provoking and visually stimulating. Demby currently resides in New York City with his wife, Jonelle, and their son, Lev, and enjoys reading, vegan food, and spending time with his family.