Urban exploring, also known as “urbex,” is the practice of exploring abandoned or off-limit buildings and other man-made structures. It’s a hobby that attracts a wide range of people, from photographers to history buffs to thrill-seekers. One subgenre of urban exploration photography is known as “freaktography,” which focuses on capturing the eerie and often unsettling beauty of abandoned places.
Freaktography is a unique form of photography that combines the thrill of urban exploration with the art of capturing abandoned spaces. It’s about capturing the beauty of decay and the eerie atmosphere of abandoned buildings and structures. The goal is to create visually striking images that evoke a sense of unease and mystery.
One of the main appeals of Freaktography is the challenge of capturing the unique atmosphere of abandoned places. These structures are often in a state of disrepair and may be hazardous to explore, so photographers must be careful and have the right equipment. It’s also important to be aware of the legal implications of urban exploration, as many abandoned buildings are private property and entering them without permission can be considered trespassing.
The most important thing to consider when doing Freaktography is lighting. Abandoned buildings often have broken windows, holes in the roof, and other openings that let in natural light. This can create interesting lighting effects and shadows that can add a sense of depth to the photograph. Additionally, using a flash or other artificial light sources can create a sense of unease and tension in the image.
Another important aspect of Freaktography is composition. The goal is to create visually striking images that tell a story about the abandoned place. This can be achieved by focusing on specific details such as broken furniture, peeling wallpaper, or graffiti. Additionally, including human elements such as clothing or personal items can add a sense of history and context to the photograph.
Freaktography is not just about capturing abandoned buildings, but also the stories and memories they hold. Each abandoned building has a unique history and its own set of memories and emotions. As an urban exploring photographer, it’s important to be respectful of these memories and to tell the story of the building in an honest and authentic way.
In conclusion, Freaktography is a unique form of urban exploration photography that combines the thrill of exploring abandoned places with the art of capturing their eerie beauty. It’s about capturing the beauty of decay and the eerie atmosphere of abandoned buildings and structures. It’s a challenging and rewarding hobby that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a respect for the history and memories of the places being explored.