This view of the Golden Gate clearly illustrates how Watkins could document the scene of a blossoming city, while capturing its beauty through the composition. As seen in so many of his compositions, Watkins manages to find the perfect vantage point to take his photograph.

Watkins had set up his studio on Montgomery Street in San Francisco and called it his “Yo-semite” Gallery. His stereoview sales had stalled around this time in 1865, so he formed a relationship with the California State Geological Survey.