Visit to the Packard Plant (Part 1)

So it all began with this headline I found in the New York Times last night "The Packard Plant, a Symbol of Bygone Detroit, May Be Demolished". The article goes on to say that the plant will be gradually fenced up to begin demolition works starting next week! Needless to say, I was shocked... "what a waste", I thought! 

While many consider the Packard Plant an eye sore... those into photography will straight away recognise the photographic qualities of such a landmark. The beauty of the industrial settings mixed with a good dose of "urban decay"... the make up of a truly unique photography experience. There is not much the photographer need to do, just let the photos do the talking. 

So it should be a simple decision right? I am alone in Michigan... the plant is less than 30 mins drive away from my place and I have nothing to do this Sunday! Logical conclusion - make the trip and take some photos! Well, it's not really a simple decision. 


First of all, the Packard Plant is within the 8 miles radius from the city of Detroit... an area of what many would consider "high crime" zone. Secondly, the plant is usually abandon and quiet ... in fact, it's very quiet... so the prospect of a modestly built Asian running into trouble (ie. getting mugged) is a real possibility... come on... I am an easy target!

"Should I go?" I asked my wife through Skype... "Go lah.... otherwise you'll keep harping on it," she said. Still feeling uneased... "I'll let the weather decide," I replied. 

Sunday... I woke up this morning to a light snow fall. Ah, the weather is bad... that's my excuse to stay away from Packard Plant, I rationalised. Then, I thought... since the weather is crappy today... maybe no one will go to the plant - then, it'll be perfect! And before I know it... I am all packed and ready to go!

I hopped into the car and turn on the GPS... after about 30mins drive... there.... that is the Packard Plant! There were some photographers around, "I could approach them ... make friends ... and then follow them around the plant ... perfect!" So, I did speak with a few of the folks, everyone was friendly... but after about 5 mins of photos, I forgot about the "making friends" part and I am thoroughly hooked onto the photography! I spend the next 3 hours walking up and down the Packard Plant... shooting away! What a day!!!

Somethings when you "think" too much... you miss out on opportunities... I am glad I didn't today... and here are some of the photos!

In my next post, I will share more about some personal reflections I did during my visit to the plant... meanwhile, enjoy the photos.