Hey, my three day waiting period is finally over! I figured this would be a better place for an introduction than the main area.

I live in Northern Kentucky, fifteen minutes or so away from Cincinnati. I have limited photography experience, and no UrbEx experience, but I want both. Three weeks ago I purchased a Nikon D3000, hoping to explore the field of photography. So far I love it! It's quite a challenge, and really stretches your creative side.

I had heard about Urban Exploring through blogs, websites, and tv shows before and it always sounded really cool, but I didn't completely know what it was or how to go about exploring my urban surroundings properly. Well, now that I have a camera, I though it would be a great time to try to get into it.

For a few days I searched online, trying to find active UrbEx sites/forums, but couldn't find anything I really liked. Either they were all dead, based in other countries, or just didn't suit me. I finally found this place, which seemed active and looked like a good community. Then, looking through the special boards, I found something even better... A board for people specifically in my area! I was hooked. I tried to type up an introduction and it said I had to wait three days. I was hooked, and now disappointed. It did give me more time for lurking through. This place seems so great, I donated before I could even post. Still waiting on chat access, though... *grumble*

As much as I want to jump right into this hobby, I really would like someone to go with, to show me the ropes, and more importantly, how to get past the ropes. If someone doesn't mind a newbie tagging along, I'd really appreciate the guidance. Spotting good locations isn't one of my skills yet either, so if you have good places in mind for new guys, let me know. One of my friends is also interested, though not as interested as I am.

Here's my Flickr account, if anyone is interested in seeing my limited-but-growing image gallery. The first picture was added the day I got my camera, and the last was a day or two ago. Noticing yourself getting better is fun.

And finally, thanks, CaptOrbit, for the great place to talk about Cincinnati UrbEx.

Hey, sorry I didn't respond sooner. Welcome. You have some cool kids down in your neck of the woods, just check this board for who posts in it and you'll find them.

Thanks, I'll keep my eyes open. I've recently juggled some things on my schedule and finally have time to do what I'd like to. Can't wait to get out there.

So, I figure people are a little leery of taking someone brand new on a trip with them... That's understandable. Does anyone have a favorite newbie-acceptable location I could make my first explore out of? By newbie-acceptable, I don't mean it has to be a public park after closing hours, by the way. I tend to jump right on into things, and can take physical challenges.

I have already checked the Cincinnati location database, and of three listings, two are demolished, while the third is boring and active.

I'd really like to do something this weekend, on Saturday. Send me a PM or post here if anyone has either something planned or knows a fun first explore site.

Thanks.

I know of a super-duper n00b friendly place in Dayton if your interested. Unfortunately, I probably won't be able to show you around since I have plans this weekend. Just shoot me a PM if you want more info.

EDIT: Actually I can think of two. Neither of which are particuarly interesting, but they are a good stepping stone.

Dayton is a bit hard for me to get to, unfortunately. G Race sent me a PM with a few locations I plan to check out, but more recommendations are welcome.

Vernon Manor is an appealing first stop too, since it's apparently so easy to get into (thanks, CaptOrbit), and is still in good condition.

I only know of a very small handful of locations in Cinci but I am trying to see some more areas down there, send me a PM and I will let you know what I am up to. I might try to get down there this weekend.

The irony of Cincinnati is of course that many excellent locations are outside of Cincinnati.

Goetta is soooo fucking good.

Goetta is definitely good Om Noms. Delicious tidbits of various meats, outs, and magic. And it fights back when you cook it! A true man's breakfast, one that requires a battle be won to consume.

Why is what used to be seen as peasant/garbage food so good?

Since the peasants had to cook for themselves, they cared about the taste more?

Because its like, real, man.