One of our members, Andrew Rein, came across the following article about preparing for and dealing with risks when exploring abandoned buildings when photographing them.  Andrew was inspired to pass along the following link after the club’s recent trip to the Lonaconing Silk Mill, which ceased operation in 1957, and is in structural decline.

http://mirrorlessphototips.com/photography-in-abandoned-buildings/

The article’s author, Jay Farrell, seems to be willing to explore abandoned buildings without the owner’s permission, but even with permission, virtually everything he writes about is still a risk.

This article is not comprehensive.   Consider that abandoned buildings are not maintained.  Your presence can be the catalyst that causes something to fall or the floor to collapse beneath you.  Are there Black Widow or Brown Recluse spiders?  Ooh, bring your macro!  But, don’t go into a situation beyond your abilities.

Most importantly, whether you visit abandoned buildings, wilderness trails, or bad neighborhoods, try to go with company, and make sure that someone knows where you are going!