During the making of the “Craft of Speed” MOONEYES Documentary, we took many documentary photographs. We always envisioned “Craft of Speed” to be not just a feature documentary but also an expansive multimedia project that included documentary photography. Now, with this large collection of images, we’re creating a photography book. We felt that this book could help document MOONEYES’ important history in a complementary, yet different way compared to the feature documentary—with the power of still photography and the storytelling of a photography book.
We tried to push each documentary photograph and the resulting photography book to the level of art. The goal wasn’t to just make it beautiful but more so powerful in telling the epic story of MOONEYES. Each photograph is similar to poetry with multiple layers of meaning. And the photographs, highly curated and carefully sequenced in the book, collectively tell an even more impactful story, representing that of MOONEYES.
Through the specific sequencing of the photographs, the viewer is able to visit the historic MOONEYES Santa Fe Springs headquarters. They’re also able to explore the storied MOONEYES Machine Shop and admire its vintage metalworking machines. In addition, they can experience the natural wonders of the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats and immerse themselves in land speed racing. Moreover, they can remember the last days of the beloved Irwindale Dragstrip, which was recently closed, and feel the thrill of nostalgia drag racing.
Through social media, people glance at and swipe away countless images every day. However, a photography book is an invitation to slow down, appreciate the images, reflect on their presentation, understand their meaning, and enjoy how they together tell a bigger story. Even better, the book, by design, allows for repeated viewings—creating a new and deeper experience each time. It’s the power of a good story, told artfully.
To order the “Craft of Speed” MOONEYES Photography Book:
https://www.craftofspeed.com/store/photographybook
To attend the CineMakina: “Craft of Speed” MOONEYES Documentary Screening at Hagerty Garage + Social in Van Nuys, California on Saturday, 11/8/2025, presented by Makina Drivers Club:
craftofspeed.eventive.org