Project Face Mask

Project Face Mask is a poignant photographic essay by Long Island-based photographer Benny Migliorino, known professionally as Benny Migs. Conceived during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, this project captures the resilience and emotion of small business owners in Patchogue, New York, as they navigated unprecedented challenges.

Collaborating with the Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce, Benny set out to document local entrepreneurs within their shuttered or limited-operation establishments, each donning face masks—a symbol of the times.

His intent was to portray the raw emotions and altered realities faced by these individuals, steering away from polished imagery to embrace a darker, moodier aesthetic that mirrored the collective experience.

To achieve this, Benny employed a 14mm wide-angle lens, deviating from traditional portrait norms. This choice introduced a slight distortion, metaphorically reflecting the disoriented state of society during the pandemic. Utilizing a Nikon Z6 camera paired with a Sigma Art lens and a single Westcott FJ400 strobe light, he maintained a minimalist setup, allowing for quick, efficient sessions that respected safety protocols.

The culmination of this endeavor is a self-published coffee table book featuring 81 compelling images. Released in October 2020, the book not only serves as a historical record but also contributes to the community, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Patchogue Chamber of Commerce. The project was also showcased in a pop-up exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art of Long Island, highlighting its cultural significance

Project Face Mask stands as a testament to the power of visual storytelling in capturing the human spirit amidst adversity. It underscores Benny Migs' commitment to documenting history through his lens, offering future generations a window into a pivotal moment in time