After several emails and questions, I would like to address several points on the topic of “Abandoned Buildings and Locations.”
In recent years the amount of structures and locations that have become abandoned has increased exponentially. This has spawned an entire subculture of self titled “Urban Explorers”; people who range from Artists and Photographers to Thrill-seekers and Vandals. It is a very mixed bag of folks and while I do not consider myself an “Urban Explorer”, there are times when I photograph in and around locations that are clearly marked NO ACCESS. There is now a need for me to make certain clarifications as to my standings, having received several emails asking for the locations of these places and even directions as to how to gain entry. I never give this information out and have been asked repeatedly as to “Why not?”
First and foremost, if there is a location or thing I wish to photograph, I will ALWAYS make every attempt to gain access to the location through legal means. I will often research a location prior to visiting and try to contact the property owners to gain permission. Most places have caretakers, who when approached, are more than happy to let me in after hearing that my intentions are for artistic purposes. There are times when people cannot be reached or permission is not granted that the temptation can get the best of me. That is when I am very aware of the fact that I am breaking the law and proceeding at my own risk. For legal reasons I don’t give out locations because I do not wish to become involved, or potentially liable, for what happens to other people when they get caught at places “I told them about”. The differences between “Trespassing” and “Breaking and Entering” are usually up to the property owner, the police and the specific conditions relating to each location. I do not encourage, aid, or promote anyone breaking ANY law or regulation.
Second, most of these locations are abandoned or condemned for a reason. The safety of these places can range from “tricky” to outright HAZARDOUS! They are usually loaded with things like: sharp rusty metal protruding from walls, asbestos, mold, lead paint, glass, chemicals, rodents, insects, wildlife, weakened ceilings, holes in floors, weak stairways and even doors that can lock behind you and open an entire new level of danger. I have had extensive hazardous material training and even though I am equipped with everything from respirators to Tyvek suits, does not make these locations any less dangerous. Just because I put my butt on the line for the sake of capturing a particular image, does not mean I am ready to put anyone else at risk.
Finally, while most of the “Urban Explorers” I have met and sometimes shoot with are respectable people with the best intentions, there are PLENTY of people who have ZERO interest in the historical or photographic value of any of these locations. I would not want anyone going to these places and compromising a future photograph of mine because some idiot thought a wall would look “cooler” with his/her name spray-painted across it. When thrill-seekers, vandals or anyone up to no good goes into these places, it makes it harder for the rest of us to be granted legal access. It also makes the powers-that-be lump us all into the same group and be more willing to “Prosecute”
So, I hope everyone continues to visit my “Abandoned” gallery and can enjoy the imagery, but please DO NOT ask me to disclose locations or ask me for directions. I will also not take anyone with me to these locations and they will NEVER be included on field workshops or photo tours.
Your understanding and anticipated cooperation is appreciated, Thank you.
Matthew Graham
September 2011