Photographer Michael Max McLeod captures remaining public porn cinemas:
I’m surprised they still exist. The internet has been mainstream since, what, 1993 maybe? That’s over 20 years. Porn and anonymous hookups are a click away now – anywhere, any time. Most of the locations I go to are completely empty or have only 1 or 2 patrons. Thats great, because it gives me a lot of freedom to photograph. But I imagine they can’t stay in business much longer.
As for the locations that actually get traffic, I’m surprised to discover how they each have a specific culture. Truck stop locations are busy and have a very fast turnover. A location off the highway is going to be busiest at 3pm on a Friday. The neighborhood porn shop might serve as a friendly, social hangout for retired men. Certain locations might attract black and latino men and their admirers. Other locations attract prostitutes, straight couples or a lunchtime businessman crowd. I could go on. Each location has its own unique rituals.
See more of his work here.
The Dish 