E-mail is preferred.

Contact

I love getting your messages with photos, stories, or updates on places I’ve visited, feedback on the blog, and tips for new locations.

Any and all inquiries are welcome, but please take a quick look through the FAQ below to see if any of your questions are answered there, particularly if they relate to LOCATION SCOUTING.

Email me at will@abandonednyc.com.

FAQ

1. I need an abandoned space for my upcoming film/dance performance/music video/photo shoot.  Can you help?

Abandoned buildings are notoriously difficult to secure for film/photo shoots for multiple reasons, including some serious safety issues. I receive multiple emails every week asking for (free) assistance finding abandoned locations for this purpose.  Unfortunately, I don’t always have the time to respond to these requests and more often than not, I can’t be much help anyway.

2. I want to explore an abandoned building myself, where can I pick up a permit?

If only it was that simple…  Property owners of abandoned buildings are hard to track down, and it’s extremely unlikely that they allow casual visitors due to liability issues, not to mention the fact that there’s nothing in it for them, no matter how good your intentions.  For that reason, getting inside an abandoned building usually involves breaking the law.  That’s not to say it’s impossible to get permission, but I probably can’t be much help to you.

3. Are these places open to the public?

While many of the places on this site are located in public parks or natural areas, accessing the interior of abandoned buildings is always trespassing.  Beachcombing at Dead Horse Bay is one legal option. Fort Tilden, Fort Totten, Fort Wadsworth, and Floyd Bennett Field are also fun to wander around and explore, and totally open to the public as long as you don’t go inside the buildings.

4. I really want to get into urban exploring.  Where’s a good place to start?

I’m not too involved with the Urbex community, but I’ve heard the UER forums are a good resource.  Instagram is another good place to find like-minded individuals.

5. Can I come with you on your next adventure?

I get a fair amount of emails from people who want to join me, and I’m not able to meet with everyone. But if you’ve done this kind of thing before, know about a place I haven’t been, and/or have a car, by all means get in touch!

6. Do you give tours?

I do occasionally act as a guide through NYC’s abandoned buildings for very small groups. Get in touch for more info on private tours.

7. Where can I buy a print?

Prints are available through the Abandoned NYC Prints page.  Let me know if you can’t find what you’re looking for and I can most likely make it available.  For information on signed, limited edition fine art prints, email me at will@willellisphoto.com.

8. How can I license an image?

Part of my archive is available for download under a royalty free license through Offset.  Contact me for other inquiries.

9. Where can I purchase Abandoned NYC the book?

The best way to show your support is to order directly from me at www.abandonednycbook.com.  Signed copies come with a free 8×10″ print.  It’s also available on Amazon, and in some bookstores, including The Strand in Union Square.

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