Capturing Oceanside: A Conversation with Tanner Olthoff, Photographer andNative

For nearly three decades, Tanner Olthoff has called Oceanside, California, home. A lifelong resident of this vibrant coastal town, Olthoff’s journey from baseball diamond to behind the lens is as authentic as the images he captures. In a world where photography is often saturated with the overly polished and staged, Olthoff’s work stands out for its raw, unfiltered celebration of the Oceanside he knows and loves.

Growing up in Oceanside, Tanner was always surrounded by the dynamic energy of thetown’s surf and skateculture. “When I was in middle school, I would make skate videoswith my buddies,” he recalls. But it wasn’t until after a brief stint in college baseball that his passion for photography truly began to take shape. At 21, burnt out from the demands of sports, he picked up a camera and started documenting the world around him. “What inspires my photography is documenting my travels and the Oceanside scene as authentically and realistically as possible,” he shares.

Oceanside’s surf scene, particularly in the fall, holds a special place in Tanner’s heart. “The pier is what Oceanside is known for,” he explains, emphasizing how this iconic structure has become a central theme in his work, especially after the devastating firethat damaged it. The pier, along with the ebb and flow of the city’s sand, are more than just subjects for Tanner; they are symbols of a town constantly in flux.

Tanner’s work goes beyond capturing moments; it’s a visual chronicle of Oceanside’s transformation. His “before and after” photography project, though born out of a spontaneous idea, has become a significant part of his portfolio. “I have a collection ofshots from over the years, and over the last couple years, the city has begun to change.

Some of the changes can be seen through new photos,” Tanner notes. The transformation around the pier, with the Top Gun house and the rise of new hotels, is particularly striking. His photos offer a window into Oceanside’s evolving landscape, serving as both a reminder of the past and a record of its ongoing development.

But it’s not just the dramatic changes that catch Tanner’s eye. He also finds beauty in the everyday scenes that define Oceanside’s character. “I enjoy documenting the simple things around the coast that make Oceanside, Oceanside,” he says. Whether it’s the way the light hits the waves on a crisp fall morning or the familiar sight of locals gathering at the pier, Tanner’s work is a love letter to the city and its people.

Looking to the future, Tanner remains focused on capturing the essence of Oceanside while also exploring new horizons. He’s particularly excited about the recent dredging and sand project, which promises to reshape the local surf scene. “Based on how the sand has been building up the past few weeks, it looks like we could have a really fun fall,” he says with anticipation.

For those eager to view Tanner’s work, his Instagram (@tannerolthoff) serves as both a gallery and a storefront. Fans and potential buyers can explore his collection and even place print orders directly via DMs or text. In a city that is constantly changing, Tanner Olthoff’s photography offers a grounding sense of continuity. His images not only capture the physical landscape of Oceanside but also the spirit of a community that continues to thrive amidst change. As he continues to document the city he’s always called home, Tanner’s work ensures that Oceanside’s story is told with honesty, passion, and a deep sense of place.