Photographing Urban Decay - The Beauty of Ugly Places

In this video, I set out to photograph things that are traditionally considered ugly — places most people walk past or actively avoid. Using my camera, I explore urban decay, graffiti, litter, neglected architecture, and scenes of social deprivation to see what stories they tell.

I begin in a pedestrian subway, its walls completely covered in graffiti and showing clear signs of neglect. While shooting here, I also explain how I discreetly conceal my camera when working in challenging or sensitive urban environments.

From there, I visit a housing estate described by the Manchester Evening News as the most deprived estate in Greater Manchester, walking the area and documenting what I see through photography rather than judgement.

Next, I explore a graffiti-covered footpath filled with litter, finding unexpected compositions within the chaos. I then head to Wythenshawe Civic Centre — once a thriving community hub, now a place suffering from long-term neglect and decline — capturing images that reflect its faded importance and current condition.

To finish the day, I stop at The Cornishman Hotel for a half pint of Carling. This moment is especially meaningful, as it was once my grandfather’s favourite pub, bringing a personal note to the end of an otherwise gritty exploration.

This video is about documenting reality, finding interest where others see none, and using photography to tell honest urban stories.

📍 Locations Featured

• Graffiti-covered pedestrian subway
• Deprived housing estate in Greater Manchester
• Graffiti and littered footpath
• Wythenshawe Civic Centre
• The Cornishman Hotel

📷 Gear Used

• Canon R6 Mark II
• Canon 17 - 40mm lens

Music: www.purple-planet.com