Urban exploration (or Urbex) is the exploration of abandoned buildings, crypts, hospitals, factories... (we generally call them 'locations' because almost anything abandoned qualifies for the job).
Most people associate Urbex with photography. Most Urbexers take pictures to try to capture the very special atmosphere you find in those locations, but taking pictures is not a requirement. You can just be taking a look in the old abandoned factory in your village and still be Urbexing. But there is one main rule that most urbexers follow: "Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints!".
We are two (ex) classmates with a common interest for abandoned buidlings. Joachim is the photographer and main source of locations. We're both 21 years old and live in Leuven, Belgium.
Photographing Gear
- Canon EOS 1000D (Rebel XS) (Panasonic Lumix FZ 8 before 2010)
- Sigma 10-20 since 2011, before the 18-55 kitlens
- Adapter for Canon FD lenses (80-200 and 50mm prime)
- 1977 Minolta XG-2 with 50mm and 28mm lenses
- Lightweight tripod (Velbon)
- Spare batteries and SD cards, filters and flash gun
Exploring Gear
- Cell phones!
- Food and water
- Safety gloves
- Multiple flashlights
- Long, decent trousers (eg Jeans)
- Good walking shoes
- First aid kit