Jolene Sedgwick | Hidden Gems

Hidden Gems
By Jolene Sedgwick

“My initial curiosity about what these abandoned houses looked like inside led me to explore the property and share my discoveries with coworkers.” – Jolene Sedgwick

I am a self-taught photographer driven by an insatiable curiosity for abandoned places and a profound appreciation for their architecture and the untold stories they hold. My photography journey was purely coincidental, sparked by a chance encounter with an abandoned farmhouse just across from my old workplace.
My initial curiosity about what these abandoned houses looked like inside led me to explore the property and share my discoveries with coworkers. The moment that truly ignited my passion for urbex photography was the one staged photo I took of an old open book resting on the basement steps. The interplay of texture and shadows in that image sparked my desire to capture the memories and emotions hidden within these forsaken locations. Despite my self-taught background, I have art experience as well, having been placed in advanced art classes during my formative years.

“My exploration and capture of these abandoned places are not merely a hobby but a deep-seated passion. I am driven by a desire to share the mesmerizing beauty and poignant melancholy of these forgotten spaces with the world.” – Jolene Sedgwick

What captivates me the most about these forgotten places is the texture they acquire as nature slowly reclaims them. To capture a feeling from a memory that is not mine is a huge responsibility when approaching locations for capture. I aim to capture the emotions and memories embedded in these spaces. Acknowledging this responsibility has shaped my approach to photography. I adhere to minimal post-shot editing, preserving the authenticity and raw beauty of my explored locations.
I primarily edit the sharpness, definition, and saturation of my captures. My choice of equipment includes a Sony Alpha6000 with a standard 16-50mm lens, augmented by a 40.5mm polarized lens to combat glare when necessary.
In low-light situations, I turn to my iPhone, and I often use a multi-shot setting to ensure the crispest image. I prefer the intelligent auto setting with face recognition disabled while working in the macro setting, enabling me to work swiftly and discreetly. I do not use a tripod or carry around a lot of additional equipment as it takes away from and commercializes the sense of adventure. It also adds unnecessary extra weight on already unsteady floors.
When I’m searching for locations, I just drive.
I often encounter these hidden gems during everyday activities and travel, or I meticulously research when planning specific shoots out of state. Each exploration is a gamble; just because I spot a location on Google Earth doesn’t guarantee its existence today.

My adventures encompass abandoned houses, schools, hospitals, and various other structures, with each visit involving a careful assessment of risk, size, and capture potential. It’s all about being in the right place at the right time. However, this thrill of discovery is tempered with respect and responsibility. If I were to offer advice, I’d emphasize the importance of respecting locations where you are not welcome and knowing your own limits.
My exploration and capture of these abandoned places are not merely a hobby but a deep-seated passion.

“I am driven by a desire to share the mesmerizing beauty and poignant melancholy of these forgotten spaces with the world. Through my lens, I aim to convey the sense of wonder I experience as one of the final souls to explore these locations before they vanish, taking their history with them.” – Jolene Sedgwick

See the full article in Lens Magazine Issue #109