In January 2026, I had the opportunity to travel to New Orleans for the first time while volunteering alongside members of my university. Between our volunteer work, I brought my camera with me wherever I could, wanting to document a city I had never experienced before.

Rather than setting out with a specific project in mind, these photographs became a way of preserving my own memories. From the historic streets of the French Quarter to quiet moments away from the crowds, I found myself drawn to the city’s architecture, colors, music, and everyday life. Every corner seemed to have its own story.

This collection reflects my first impressions of New Orleans through my own perspective. Looking back through these images reminds me not only of the places I visited, but also of the experience of exploring an unfamiliar city, meeting new people, and seeing one of America’s most distinctive places for the very first time.