The goal of this project was to capture the grandeur of the Great Hall at Ellis Island. On many days over 5,000 immigrants would file through the space, so capturing the size of the room was important.

At one time Ellis Island was the largest immigration station with over 12 million immigrants processed. For many it became the Island of Hope as they entered America, but for some it was the Island of Tears when individuals were denied and families were split up. The Great Hall of Ellis Island epitomized the immigrant experience. Medical and legal examinations were conducted in this room, determining whether one was allowed to land in the United States or not.

The image was well liked for the perspective of the shot and emotion it evokes.