Photography On Location: Deterioration in the Desert

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Is there anything a photographer loves more than urban decay? I think not. We are moths and urban decay is our flame. It is the honey to our bees. Wait, no. That analogy doesn't make sense. Bees make honey but we don't make urban decay. Okay, okay I got it. Urban decay is the pollen to our bees. Yep, there it is.
I'm no exception. I love shooting old run-down buildings and busted-up things rotting in the desert. And that's why when I first laid eyes on the subject of this video, I couldn't stop thinking about it. I needed to come back. I needed to expose some film because this subject was just too damn good to ignore.
So with my truck loaded up with my Shen-Hao TFC 617-A panoramic camera, a cooler full of Kodak Portra film, and plenty of warm clothing, I ventured out to my pre-scouted location to scratch an itch that had been bugging me for months. And what itch was that? The itch to photograph something rad. Well guess what, baby, I scratched that itch so good. So damn good.
I'm sure I'll get asked where exactly this location is, so I'll just go ahead and address that now: Drive from Orange County to Las Vegas. You'll see it on the way. But if you do visit this location, please be respectful. This site may look dilapidated and neglected, but it's still someone else's land. And for the love of God, don't go paint some wannabe "street art" on anything out there. We have enough of those stupid "obey" faces as it is.
Enjoy this video of me taking pictures!
Website: www.nickcarver...
Instagram: / nickcarver

[@nickcarverphoto]

I hate ads. And I'd like to remove them from all my videos. If you too would like that to happen, please consider making a small contribution at nickcarverphoto.com/contribute If you prefer not to contribute, no problem. I'll continue making videos as often as I can. And from the bottom of my heart, thank you for viewing my channel.

[@dankspangle]

Desert - tick. Weird stuff in the desert - tick. Medium format camera action - tick. Beautiful photos - tick. Nick C.'s dulcet tones lyrically delivering expert commentary - tick. I've just been watching another photography KZbinr lamenting the quality of content and disparaging the motivations of content creators. This video proves that great content made by great people is out there. Thanks Nick.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Oh man. First off, not gonna lie, I had to look up dulcet. Damn good word. Secondly, thank you for the kind comments. I know I don't post as much as I probably should, but I try not to post anything that's poorly done or covers some useless click-bait topic like "is this camera better than that camera and is it really worth it to shoot film?" I'm glad to know such an approach is appreciated by folks like yourself. Thank you!

[@mattdayphoto]

I'm 1:26 in and I'm pausing to say I love this so much.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Matt Day dude you’re the best.

[@totallynotpetrvagner]

I see a bromance waiting to happen :)

[@danielemilazzo432]

OMG, two heroes in one place!!!! :)

[@MarcS4R]

@@danielemilazzo432 word (Y)

[@MoisheLettvin]

Confession: I might’ve thought you two were the same person for a while.

[@therealpoka]

You are easily my favorite photographer on youtube and one of my favorite photographers overall. You are so natural on camera that I could watch your stuff all day.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much for the kind words. Feedback like this really inspires me to keep putting out more videos and photos!

[@iKeto_gal]

I agree, so nice on camera, your energy is wonderful. It feels like we're with you on these fun adventures.

[@Dmitryzakharov]

I once thought - well, I can do it too. I just need a camera and a set of lenses. Then, when i checked prices.... Ladder is all i can effort. Which is not bad at the end of the day, because i can see things from a different angle.

[@lintownboy]

YES!! My favorite Nick Carver videos are always the ones on location in the desert :)

[@nickcarverphoto]

Happy to oblige, my friend! Thanks for watching!

[@southernbiscuits1275]

The more of your videos I watch, the more I am impressed by your eye for composition and subject matter. Your photos are unique, personal and have an honesty I rarely feel when seeing other videos of photographers on KZbin. Really enjoy your efforts and your vision!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much for the kind words! 🙏🏼

[@LukeTor]

Man, i have to say, no photographer has inspired me more than you in youtube, i dont know if it's the film process, or the pictures or your charisma, but plz dont stop. Best regards from Brazil.

[@nickcarverphoto]

There are some great photographers making videos on KZbin, so that's saying something. Thank you very much! I will definitely continue making videos.

[@LukeTor]

I watch a lot of youtube photographers, so yes, that's (at least for me) saying something xD.

[@catmonkey6826]

A new Nick Carver video is always a big treat. No rushing to watch on the phone or even the laptop, these events involve the big TV, sofa and a glass of something relaxing. And it's always worth it, funny and fun, informative and fascinating, thanks Nick!

[@brunomartelli8163]

Well done. You did the right choice with the cold light.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@kishascape]

I like the first shot. It's more subdued and realistic. Like I'm actually out there. It's just how weather is a lot of days in the high desert. It evokes response to make me feel like i'm in the photo.

[@JamesBrown-jp9kp]

Great pictures. In my opinion I like the 210mm with the sun setting in the west my favourite. Gave me a sense of nostalgia from playing fallout on the X box. Was almost anticipating a mutant to come out from behind the caravan and start attacking me. Lol. Plus I think the sun setting works well with the neglected boat. The story is almost signifying lost memories. End of an era. Or forgotten times gone by.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you! I go back and forth between that one and the blue-toned one.

[@farouk6564]

I love the blue toned image at sunrise, the one with the sun peaking is not bad could be great in black and white perhaps. As usual, thanks for taking us with you Nick I really enjoy these videos.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you! Yeah B&W might have been just what it needed.

[@Brentbrussell]

Truly disappointed the title of this video isn't "Goddamn sail boat in a deteriorating shed in the middle of the desert"

[@nickcarverphoto]

Haha! That's definitely a better title.

[@KandiKlover]

Nah, it's "the middle of fuckall" or "shithole" if you're allowed to be more vulgar. I live out here all the time. It's ok to be honest about it.

[@sonicsuperantihero5048]

The ONLY problem with your videos is that it is not often enough. Your photos are easily the best ones out there, keep up being amazing.

[@bigdogdougcambridge1008]

Hi Nick nice video again. I don’t shoot the same subjects as you but your perspective is never-the-less refreshing and thought provoking. Thanks! I am often struck how the desert attracts dreams and dreamers. I think there is a whole subject matter on broken dreams here.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much. And I agree about the desert. It's a unique place that attracts a certain type of person.

[@markhamilton8491]

I’m not a photographer but love the way you tell stories...more videos please

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you, sir!

[@VedantaDhobley]

Your videos really help me understand the thought process and attention to detail that goes into creating great photos. Very inspirational, glad to have you around.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much!

[@photog1529]

That last photo does blend in really well with the Route 66 image.

[@JamesBellLandscapePhotography]

I really enjoy your videos Nick. Your sense of humour with your photographic knowledge and free flowing style make for a compelling watch. I appreciate the effort you put into making these videos. Very enjoyable. Thanks.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you for the thank you - haha. Seeing how many people enjoy watching these videos makes the effort all worth it.

[@JamesBellLandscapePhotography]

Nick Carver you’re welcome. I look forward to your videos especially the on location shoots. I appreciate your considered approach. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to visit your part of the world with my camera. Need me some dilapidating buildings for my 6x6.

[@swansong007]

All great photographers have a unique style to separate them from the masses. Nick you have that unique style, I could spot one of your photos from a mile. You are a great photographer. BTW I bet you that boat owner was one of the 80 million gun owners in USA . Very wise to stay outside !!

[@Dan-Campbell]

Having just watched the American West video with the Hawk Feathers I really enjoyed the line at 4:18 "I don't make a habit of breaking the law on video and then putting it on KZbin...because I'm not dumb". Loving your work Nick, started watching your stuff after the 'Tethered with' video from Thomas Heaton.

[@tuttmamman3490]

"I don't like to draw attention to my self" seconds later.. Puts up a giant camera 3m in the air lol

[@GavinChapmanphotography]

Hands down my fav photography vids on KZbin. Thanks for doing these man, they are just brilliant and I love your sense of humour!

[@pdp11]

I agree, the blue one was my favorite too, followed by the second one, with the sun on the right. Once the sun came up, the warm light is very nice on the grasses in the foreground, but the boat gets lost in the harsh shadows. Great work as always, I actually paused the movie I was watching when I saw a Nick Carver notification!

[@DarthGold]

Your videos are always worth the wait

[@nickcarverphoto]

You're too kind. Thank you!

[@pedrosanchez7749]

i love the little clouds at 5:49 right next to the camera

[@nickcarverphoto]

Dude same here.

[@alexandros-markovits]

Awesome pictures!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@edmontonian5270]

Fan-freakin-tastic. Always love my intermittent and unpredictable dose of Nick Carver. So cool to catch a glimpse into what you're out there looking for in the desert.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Haha! I am nothing if not intermittent. That basically sums up my life. Thank you sir!

[@LP3Films]

I get way to hyped when a new vid comes out

[@bitchplz]

I could watch 6x17 content all day long

[@joshuadefibaugh3634]

3:09 why did you add footage of just the desert

[@AldermanFredCDavis]

I am in awe of the dedication of photographers who lug around medium and large format cameras and lenses...………………...especially the men who do it in urban settings (mainly because you need eyes in the back of your head). Love 'cool' morning light. I often shoot with an 82B filter to enhance that effect. Love your work, personality, and sense of humor.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you my friend! I still get self-conscious about using a camera like this in an urban setting.

[@weschilton]

As frequent visitor to the SoCal deserts, I love these videos!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@tonysanto4804]

Awesome, as always!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@HesselFolkertsma]

That moment you open the KZbin app and you’re greeted by a new Nick Carver video 🥳

[@nickcarverphoto]

👍🏼

[@itsmrh]

3:02 hilarious 😂😂

[@basembarakat]

Thanks for sharing this shoot with us.

[@trope584]

As usual. I wish I was there. Good job.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you! That whole area is worth a visit.

[@jbraid11]

Fantastic once again, Nick!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@seoulrydr]

last month a spotted this boat. i was driving to yosemite from Washington State. its just east of bartow. i did in fact turn around and take a pic. its funny what sticks in your mind from youtube and what doesn't. great vid!

[@ziggy149]

It's great to see your subscriber base finally getting up there. You're a wonderful human and a very skilled, yet humble, fine art photographer. Your subject matter has always spoke to me. Thanks for another great one.

[@ANRALOGI]

Damn nick. You were gone for quite a while until you put on that jacket, you suddenly appears. It was a total camouflage. I haven't had this much fun in quite a while while watching photography video. Loved it! ❤ please so more. I learned a lot from watching this video.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Haha - yeah I know I was completely invisible up until the jacket.

[@Topsyrm]

Another great video Nick, great shots too. I do like the way you show shots you're not so happy with and explain why. Love that 6x17 format I shoot it frequently with my Fujifilm GFX50S which has the crop in camera so you can see what you are getting.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks! I love that about the Fuji GFX cameras. Nice being able to compose in the proper aspect ratio.

[@Bellyoflion]

Nick, you have such a wonderful eye for the classical photographic image with such contemporary sensibilities. One of the best eyes here on YT for sure.

[@nickcarverphoto]

That's high praise. Thank you!

[@Usualeclectic]

Doesn’t want to stick out... gets up on ladder lol. You are awesome man! 🔥🌟

[@nickcarverphoto]

Ha! Didn't think about that. Good point.

[@austintexas29]

Really loving the bonus picture man. Definitely a good addition to that series for sure. Don’t fight those urges!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks man!

[@Patsesson]

Super!

[@ConstantinSPurcea]

That convenience store is still my favourite! This one is my second favourite.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you, my friend!

[@charlywedl5544]

Über die Website von Linhof-Kameras bin ich auf diesen Rucksack aufmerksam geworden. Die Photorucksäcke von König folgen wirklich einem sehr durchdachten System, für meine analoge Mittelformat-Kamera werde ich mir ganz bestimmt noch einen "König" zuglegen, schon alleine deshalb, weil der Hersteller seinen Sitz in meiner alten Heimat, dem Bayerischen Wald, hat. 🙂Sehr informatives Video!

[@Nat.ImagesLarge.F.Photographer]

Incredible details ,sharp,clear,awesome work!

[@khalidhassani6173]

Thumbs up nick

[@Dmitryzakharov]

decided to watch it again

[@nickcarverphoto]

Double-view-count! Thank you!

[@simonbarnes7124]

I love the cool tones to your desert images. I grew up shooting film. I love the physicality and tactile nature of loading film,, winding it on, but above all the colours. Then there’s the anticipation of waiting for it to be developed. The immediacy of digital robs us of that. It’s a bit like your videos. Fewer than other youtubers and therefore more appreciated when the pop up on my iPad. As the saying goes,”Good things come to those who wait”.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Amen to that.

[@marcgibier6071]

oh yeah, i enjoyed it, nice pano

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@ryanc1295]

Hi nick! I love these videos you do, as a photographer myself I find it hard watching most photographers work on KZbin as I just see errors, or things I would just do really differently yet your work is so different from what I shoot that I get the change to just enjoy your process

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you. I know what you mean about watching other photographers' videos.

[@CookedLight]

Feels good 🤘🏻 this video is brought to you by The North Face 😁 I really like the golden sunset shot, but agree the blue tones suit it better

[@magik8566]

Love your style. I also love shooting buildings that way albeit not on 6x17 film

[@chrismforsyth7080]

I watched this video with my monitor set to monochrome. It made that last shot that much more Ruwedel-like. Your desert videos in black and white are such a treat. Nice one as always Nick

[@nickcarverphoto]

That must 10x the art-credibility on my videos. I appreciate that.

[@Sebkim1028]

please do more of these!!

[@nickcarverphoto]

You got it!

[@MiguelGaribay909]

Love your STYLE SIR! And your Storytelling is uncomparable. You remain my fav photographer channel to watch.

[@grahamjones2759]

Awesome. This really resonates with me - love the breakdown of the thought process, the composition, the actual taking of the picture and of course the final image. Stunning!

[@jameswelsh453]

Brilliant really enjoyed Nick

[@andrewasher2201]

Love your humor!!!

[@Leffe49]

Beautiful! You are right, the blue early morning light was perfect. Love it!

[@sebastiantrandafir5607]

Inspirational at any time!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@SackPephirom]

man... another awesome video. The photos turned out great!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@davidpearce2981]

Thanks nick , enjoyed that

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@eddybax1]

Really love your channel! Thank you!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@morepork281]

I literally drop whatever I'm doing to watch these.

[@nickcarverphoto]

I hope you don't deliver babies. But for real, thanks man!

[@fgj4990]

Love the time and effort you make to get it right Nick. Your cameras and film photography are so refreshing in this snap away digital age. For me, I loved your last photo of the skeleton building the most. You nailed it!

[@kevinterrado19]

I applaud you for the determination. Thanks for taking us with you in the process! Great photos.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much!

[@OscarGuzman]

I love getting notifications when your videos come out. You do an awesome job. Loved the video again. Keep it up Nick. I'm looking forward for the next one.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@jeanoedwards5379]

Literally my favorite channel !!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@RewDowns]

I loved how you showed the three different lighting conditions for this subject. I learned a lot from this, thanks!

[@4geckofeet]

Get that pollen! Very much enjoyed the images and the opportunity to come on your photo trip.

[@matt904sl]

Great video 👍👍👍👍

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@shawndennstedt5898]

That's a great idea. I'm going to start hiking the Pacific Crest Trail next month and I KNOW there are going to be places and compositions I'll want to find again.

[@nickcarverphoto]

That's a hell of a hike. Enjoy!

[@juliussternfeld428]

I really like the sunset capture. Also the last one. 👏

[@DeeDeeLecter]

8:37 I like the ground 😊

[@DaveStromberger]

Another outstanding Nick Carver video! Keep up the good work! I like your style.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@GKhanKutar]

My fav photography channel! I love your series with film cameras in deserts!

[@glennstephenson184]

Not sure how you're not at 500K subs just now...coz ya should be! You're one of very few photography vloggers who actually DOES photography. Whenever I'm in need of some quality relax time, Nick Carver is where I go. Really enjoy your work man!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you very much, my friend!

[@2filmshooters]

Nice job!

[@FrankoFM2]

Great stuff 👍🇬🇧

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@adventureStaley]

I just binge this Shizz. Another winner.

[@GavinHayhurst]

Love the way you talk through your composition and light choices, great insight!

[@CynthiaDerrick]

Other than the blasphemy at the beginning this was a really great video. You truly have a talent for creating extraordinary from the ordinary.

[@Tbonyandsteak]

Nick Carver!!! You inspired me

[@Bronzoone]

you rock!

[@mwj9433]

Just found this channel, absolutely adore these videos. It feels like it would be a tv show on PBS or something.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you! Considering “This Old House” is legitimately one of my favorite shows, I take the PBS comment as especially flattering.

[@mfiorentino]

Great camo there! 😂 And yet another great shot - thanks for sharing! As always, a great pleasure!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@savaskeskin6692]

Hey Nick, great contend and amazing photos. I just love this 6x17 format. Thanks for sharing!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks for watching!

[@acrobaticfish]

"Goddamn sailboat in deteriorating shed in the middle of the desert"...classic Nick Carver low-key hilarity.

[@GaborRuff]

That's a great sleeping platform. You should make a video of your 4Runner and the mods you've done, maybe some camping in the field, etc. Anyway, it was a nice video and the photos are great too. My favorite is also the one you took during sunset.

[@nickcarverphoto]

I've thought about doing that, but couldn't decide if anyone would care. haha Good to know at least one person would!

[@GaborRuff]

I'm sure there are more people who would. I think combining landscape photography and camping or off-roading is very common.

[@bthemedia]

Was just driving and admiring some urban/desert decay between Vegas and LA... think I saw that exact same boat! Lots of other cool artifacts to scout out too... if I had the time! 😃

[@jmmichael188]

So happy you're putting out new content!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!

[@mebikerace]

Another fun and useful video. I’m a big fan of the pre-sunrise shot too. Thanks again Nick.

[@kimmurphy5032]

Awesome video! Really cool images, they are a great addition to your ongoing series. Inspiring, as always. Thank you Nick!

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thanks, Kim!

[@cinnamon--girl]

Great shots Nick! I always enjoy your videos and your work.

[@nickcarverphoto]

Thank you!