McKenzie Patterson is a San Diego–based documentary photographer and photojournalist with a B.A. in Visual Arts Media from the University of California, San Diego. Her work centers on capturing moments at the intersection of human rights, environmental change, and community resilience.

As a photojournalist for The Triton, UC San Diego’s student-run news outlet, Patterson reported on protest, policy, and community in real time. Her Gaza Solidarity Encampment project (To Be the Difference) reflects how institutional spaces become sites of resistance, memory, and dialogue.

Patterson’s ongoing portfolio includes a community-focused essay, Wander Through La Jolla Village, where she explores La Jolla’s identity beyond tourism through candid street portraiture and contextual storytelling.

Driven by ethical engagement and a belief in photography’s ability to spark conversation and empathy, Patterson seeks collaborations with independent publications, NGOs, and editorial photo teams.

Whether commissioning a visual story, licensing work, or exploring a collaborative project, Patterson welcomes inquiries and looks forward to connecting.