Finding Beauty in the Discarded

August 10, 2024

Why I Like Photographing the Abandoned (And Maybe You Will Too)

Let’s be honest—most of us photographers are drawn to the pretty stuff. Big skies, glowing sunsets, picture-perfect views. But sometimes, what really grabs me is the stuff most folks walk right past. Rusted-out cars, busted furniture, faded signs. Old abandoned things, basically.

It might not seem photo-worthy at first, but there’s something about it that sticks with you.

Here’s why I think it’s worth a shot:

1. It’s got stories baked in.

That old truck? It used to take someone to work every day. That worn-out chair? Somebody once sat there with their morning coffee. These things have history, and when you photograph them, you’re catching a piece of it.

2. Time leaves a mark—and it looks good.

Rust, cracks, peeling paint… it all adds texture and interest. Plus, when nature starts creeping back in—like vines curling through a broken window—it creates a kind of beauty you won’t find in something brand new.

3. There’s feeling in the forgotten.

There’s something kind of haunting about decay. It reminds you that nothing lasts forever. That mood can come through in your photos, and that’s powerful stuff.

Bottom line:

You don’t need a sweeping landscape to make a great image. Sometimes, the most meaningful photos come from the things most folks ignore. So next time you stumble on a pile of old junk, maybe pause, lift your camera, and see what it has to say.