This was a completely unplanned explore. I was headed back home from south Texas after exploring and photographing for 6 hours and not really looking forward to a five and a half hour drive home. Just after leaving I noticed a refinery in the distance that looked pretty dismal and thought it may have some potential. Initially it was hard to tell from the street if the place was still in operation as there were two other companies with modern equipment just in front of the facility.

Taking a chance, I walked into the offices of one of these and struck up a conversation with one of the operators. He said that he facility was owned by someone else (name withheld) but that it wasnt in operation and hasnt been since 1983 when Mobil Oil (now Exxon-Mobil) closed it down.

As far as getting in, he said that there was a big fence and I could climb over or I could walk out his back door. I thanked him for his help and he said, "What help? I've never seen you before in my life!"

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Great shots, love the dials in the last one. And wow, that operator! If only everyone was so helpful!

Thanks! Some here deride the whole "social engineering" aspect of this hobby but it's extremely useful - especially when you're fat and old like me!

Good stuff man. Love some industrial.

That place looks cool as hell. Anything on its history?

Very cool

He never seen you before in his life...LOL....Cool Dude! Great pics Ulcer.

Hmm, place is surprisingly clean for having been abandoned for so long. Lucky strike too with the guy. Does having a big >$1k dollar camera helps at all in these kind of situations? Thanks for sharing.

Does having a big >$1k dollar camera helps at all in these kind of situations?

Thanks!

The answer to your question is yes and no. When asking for permission, I usually use the line that I'm a photographer writing a book on old and historic places. Having a nice camera is just a prop. I'm sure that if I started shooting with an iPhone me credibility would immediately be shot. The biggest part of social engineering is being believable and personable. Appearance is also important. I have a bit of an advantage as I'm pushing 50. Having visible tattoos, long or weird hair and grubby clothing can also make things more difficult especially in small towns. (It should be noted that if I could get away with it I would be covered in tats and my hair would be down to my ass!)Even if the answer is no (which happens about half the time) you can still get some valuable information for when you decide to come back on your own and shoot the place. In short its all about presentation and believability.