Midday light. Farr West, Utah. Taking photographs throughout northern Utah one subject always get my attention, abandoned structures. These structures and even abandoned objects seem to dot the northern Utah countryside. There are houses, barns, outbuildings, farm implements,and even commercial buildings that are no longer of use. But its not just in the open countryside where I find abandoned buildings but also in towns and cities (below). Some maybe restored most will simply be torn down.

Midday light. Ogden, Utah. To me these structures and objects are beautiful. In fact, most are now more interesting to photograph in their decay then they would have been during the times when they were in actual use (below).

Afternoon light. Cache Valley, Utah. Photographing them I can't help but think of the stories they could tell. Who built them, why are they located where the are, and why were they abandoned? And will they be resurrected and used again, torn down, or left to decay? Some of the buildings I've photographed already no longer exist.

My best camera for photographing buildings in the city is my Sony RX100ii. It takes sharp images and even shoots in RAW. More important, it is so compact that I always have it with me. You never know when you will come across a subject you want to photograph. I've even pulled over sometimes and taken photos through my open car window because I didn't have any time to spare. However, any camera, even a point and shoot camera, can capture these interesting subjects if you have it with you at all times (below).

Morning light. Ogden, Utah.

When I go out into the countryside and mountain valleys I always use my Sony A6000 and usually a tripod. The tripod because these subjects aren't going anywhere so I can take my time. I also use a variety of lenses but usually a wide-angle lens seems best (below). Morning light. Weber County,Utah. Finally, what about lighting conditions? I've taken many beautiful images in early morning and evening light. But I also found that when I photograph these subjects in the harsh light of midday it can really emphasize the lonely abandonment of the buildings (below).

Midday light. Box Elder County, Utah. Now keep your own eyes open for these subjects. You will find that you also can enjoy photographing abandoned structures anytime and in any light.