What would you do for a location?

[journeybetween]

I am going back to school to complete a portfolio in the next couple weeks and am looking for photo locations. There is the wonderfully aged and a bit run down abandoned looking duplex near to my home that I would love to get my photographic hands on, but I am well aware that it is private property (in the middle of town no less). Through county records I've discovered who owns the property and a method of contact for them.

Now what do I do?! What would be the best approach to ask permission to take photos? I'm not sure how to begin!

Does anyone have any recommendations for a polite, professional request for permission?

Thanks,
Amb

[troutwhisperer]

I assume you must be a student at Western State College. I would approach the owner and explain that you are finishing up your studies at the college and would like to use his property as the subject of your last project. Seems like the owner might be interested in helping a student from the local college.

As a side note love that area of the country. I get to Gunnison/Crested Butte area several times a year to fly fish, mountain bike, white water raft and run the Taylor on the duckies. One of my favorite places to be.

[OsmosisStudios]

Contact them, ask for permission. Really not much more complex than that.

[Chaotic Beds]

I have experience asking permission to use locations for student films... It's pretty simple, just tell them what you want to do and why. Make sure you're respectful and appreciative. Maybe dress up a bit, khaki's and a decent shirt or something. I had to later get written consents for class purposes, you may or may not want to do so for your own purposes. If so, there might be templates to be found online.

Some people are responsive to such matters, and others don't want to be bothered and say no...

[Izzy]

I would risk the trespass ticket and I have several times over. Just make sure you have a cover story that is hard to prove wrong. Political approach can be a good thing too. I never do this for soft targets. IE places with multiple busted windows etc.

NEVER B&E