Levels System & Member Elections

In progress

8-Ball  •  1 day ago

Wow, it’s been a long-ass time since a level 4 application. The “provide a full write-up why you should be promoted” requirement is a little bit intimidating, but I’m here nonetheless. I’ll start from the beginning, and then talk a little bit about the specifics after that. My goal is to further expand on the topics I discussed in my level 3 application, going into greater detail and adding where I need to. I don’t want to strictly boast about my accomplishments or what exactly I’ve done to deserve level 4, and instead want this application to reflect more on the enthusiasm I have towards this hobby, and really conveys what urban exploration means to me. My interest in exploits that leaned ever so slightly on the wrong side of the law started about six years ago, when I tinkered around construction sites and rooftops a little. However, that arrived at a screeching halt after an alarm scare, and I subsequently was put off of any sort of exploring for some time after that. Fast-forwarding to around 2 years ago, I decided I wanted to get back into exploring, only this time my interest was focused less on construction sites and more so on abandoned buildings. It was around then that I joined OAP, and my love for exploring took off. I started off posting grainy, blurry photos on my iPhone 7, with no knowledge of any photography basics. A quick look at my earlier albums and you’ll see what I mean. I’ve progressed a lot in that area, with my framing, creativity, and editing all evolving and improving over time, and I feel that I’m at the point that I can say I’m proud of my photography. This was something I mentioned during my last promotion election, but I felt it was worth reiterating as I found I’ve definitely come a long way since then. Despite this, I still have to work around some constraints, as I sometimes have to stick with phone photos as my camera isn’t the greatest (unless somebody wants to drop me a couple grand, I’m stuck with it), and a lot of my photography takes place at night, which results in the constant battle between darkness and overexposure. There’s only so much that can be fixed in the post-processing stages. In the last two years, I’ve been one of the most consistent contributors to OAP, racking up a considerable amount of locations and albums alike. What I’ve found in this time is that I have a passion for documenting the unknown. You may see I have a considerably high amount of locations for someone who almost strictly posts in the Toronto region. That’s not by coincidence, as there’s nothing I love more than going into a spot completely blind, with no prior knowledge or expectations beforehand. This leads to some truly spectacular finds and hidden gems. It also leads to some real shitters, but that’s part of the fun as well. Some of the most disgusting explorations I’ve had have been the most fun at the same time. For me though, exploring doesn’t begin by putting on my shoes and heading outside. It starts on my computer, spending more time than I’d care to admit researching countless addresses and adding pin after pin to my maps. At this point, my map is a jumbled mess of pins and categories that only I could understand. I’m sure many of you can relate as well. Overall, I find that going through the entire process of finding a location, scouting it out, and finally making that plunge inside is far more rewarding. Over time, I’ve grown to appreciate what OAP offers to the exploring community. Especially being located in Toronto, I find it pretty awesome that I can share locations (to an extent) to a community that shares the same interests that I do. It’s always nice to see other explorers be able to explore the places I find, especially with the fact that the majority of these places have the sad fate of being slated for demolition. It’s always fun getting that notification of “X has added an album to your location”, and being able to check out to see what’s changed since my original visit. I tread carefully on this front however, as I ensure that I am cautious in who I choose to share my locations to, only entrusting high-profile locations with those close to me or who have earned my trust. After all, the last thing I want is for some of the trashy Instagram kids to find out about a spot and leaking it. On a similar note, it’s also worth mentioning the respect I have for all the locations I visit, abiding by the “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints” rules, and never brute-forcing my way into any spots as well. If it’s locked, it’s locked. Come back later.

In progress

UnknownUbex?  •  2 weeks ago

I’m applying for Level 2 because I have been active as a Level 1 for over a year and I have consistently contributed quality content. I have 9 locations and 19 albums, and I have updated many of them with clearer interior photos. I also have one new location and one new album coming soon. I applied last year with blurry photos and weaker locations, but since then I have improved my photography, added stronger spots, and submitted several places that qualify as Level 2 or higher. I always follow the rules, respect every site, and understand the risks. I feel ready for the responsibility of Level 2.

Denied

8-Ball  •  1 day ago

# Wow, it’s been a long-ass time since a level 4 application. The “provide a full write-up why you should be promoted” requirement is a little bit intimidating, but I’m here nonetheless. I’ll start from the beginning, and then talk a little bit about the specifics after that. My goal is to further expand on the topics I discussed in my level 3 application, going into greater detail and adding where I need to. I don’t want to strictly boast about my accomplishments or what exactly I’ve done to deserve level 4, and instead want this application to reflect more on the enthusiasm I have towards this hobby, and really conveys what urban exploration means to me. My interest in exploits that leaned ever so slightly on the wrong side of the law started about six years ago, when I tinkered around construction sites and rooftops a little. However, that arrived at a screeching halt after an alarm scare, and I subsequently was put off of any sort of exploring for some time after that. Fast-forwarding to around 2 years ago, I decided I wanted to get back into exploring, only this time my interest was focused less on construction sites and more so on abandoned buildings. It was around then that I joined OAP, and my love for exploring took off. I started off posting grainy, blurry photos on my iPhone 7, with no knowledge of any photography basics. A quick look at my earlier albums and you’ll see what I mean. I’ve progressed a lot in that area, with my framing, creativity, and editing all evolving and improving over time, and I feel that I’m at the point that I can say I’m proud of my photography. This was something I mentioned during my last promotion election, but I felt it was worth reiterating as I found I’ve definitely come a long way since then. Despite this, I still have to work around some constraints, as I sometimes have to stick with phone photos as my camera isn’t the greatest (unless somebody wants to drop me a couple grand, I’m stuck with it), and a lot of my photography takes place at night, which results in the constant battle between darkness and overexposure. There’s only so much that can be fixed in the post-processing stages. In the last two years, I’ve been one of the most consistent contributors to OAP, racking up a considerable amount of locations and albums alike. What I’ve found in this time is that I have a passion for documenting the unknown. You might see I have a considerably high amount of locations for someone who almost strictly posts in the Toronto region. That’s not by coincidence, as there’s nothing I love more than going into a spot completely blind, with no prior knowledge or expectations beforehand. This leads to some truly spectacular finds and hidden gems. It also leads to some real shitters, but that’s part of the fun as well. Some of the most disgusting explorations I’ve had have been the most fun at the same time. For me though, exploring doesn’t begin by putting on my shoes and heading outside. It starts on my computer, spending more time than I’d care to admit researching countless addresses and adding pin after pin to my maps. At this point, my map is a jumbled mess of pins and categories that only I could understand. I’m sure many of you can relate as well. Overall, I find that going through the entire process of finding a location, scouting it out, and finally making that plunge inside is far more rewarding. Over time, I’ve grown to appreciate what OAP offers to the exploring community. Especially being located in Toronto, I find it pretty awesome that I can share locations (to an extent) to a community that shares the same interests that I do. It’s always nice to see other explorers be able to explore the places I find, especially with the fact that the majority of these places have the sad fate of being slated for demolition. It’s always fun getting that notification of “X has added an album to your location”, and being able to check out to see what’s changed since my original visit. I tread carefully on this front however, as I ensure that I am cautious in who I choose to share my locations to, only entrusting high-profile locations with those close to me or who have earned my trust. After all, the last thing I want is for some of the trashy Instagram kids to find out about a spot and leaking it. On a similar note, it’s also worth mentioning the respect I have for all the locations I visit, abiding by the “Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints” rules, and never brute-forcing my way into any spots as well. If it’s locked, it’s locked. Come back later. Okay, apparently this application goes over the 5000 character limit, so the second portion will be written as a comment below.

Denied

UnknownUbex?  •  1 week ago

I’m stepping away from OAP and urbexing for good, and Imperia is stepping down as well. After everything that’s happened, it’s just time for us to move on. It was an honour being part of OAP. Wishing you all the best.

Approved

Aidenc999  •  1 month ago

Hey OAP community I feel like I have met the minimum requirements for a promotion for level 2. I haven't been on here for super long but I have a real passion for exploring. I have always found it interesting since I was a little kid but I didn't start exploring until maybe a year or two ago. I also only started taking photos/videos and documenting places recently. I always try my best to take quality photos and videos. And I take my time and if I can't find a POE I always try to comeback and find one so people can see the interior of them. I also try my best to follow all the rules. And I like to put effort in my write-ups by providing as much detailed information as I can. Sometimes it's hard to find stuff about them online. So I talk to the neighbours if there is any. Or owners, anyone I can. I also try to document all of the hazards for the locations so people don't get hurt. I always respect the locations as I hate vandalism. And because I love the buildings/houses and the history they hold and the beautiful architecture that often gets forgotten. I also try to find many of my own locations, as I find that more enjoyable than going to other people’s spots. Thank you for your consideration! as exploring means a lot to me and I try to do it whenever I got free time. I hope the community feels my contributions are significant enough for this promotion. If you have any constructive criticism or feedback, feel free to let me know what I can do better as well! Thank you for your time! Best regards, Urbex Niagara

Denied

miss  •  2 months ago

Hello 👋 i am asking to be a level 2 i am pretty sure i meet the requirements have been active for way more than 3 months, i have have posted 3 locations have 19 albums and for most of them have at least 1 entier picture if possible. im not sure if you would say i post the best photos but i do what i can and i would like to explore more spots so if you think im worthy plz up vote me

Approved

Kaichan691  •  3 months ago

I’ve been part of this community for about four years now, and in that time I’ve really made the most of what level 1 has to offer. I’ve explored and documented close to 50 locations, even though I’ve only shared a handful on the site so far. If I had posted more consistently, my account would reflect the full extent of my experience, but even so, I feel I’ve proven my dedication to urbex and to this community. I believe I’ve outgrown level 1 and am ready for level 2, which will give me the opportunity to keep pushing my explorations further and continue contributing in a more meaningful way. Thank you

Denied

Forest_Wanderer  •  4 months ago

Applying for Level 3, as I believe I at least meet the minimum requirements for promotion: - 22 locations - 70 albums While some of those are exteriors, it wasn't for lack of trying; I've climbed onto rooftops, set off alarms, and even got injured while looking for a POE. It hasn't been totally fruitless: I've added several Level 4's since my last election, including another high-profile location. Bad luck aside, I've followed all the rules consistently: I do my best to study the history of a location (even going through Google Street View images when other documentation is unavailable) and document the hazards, as well as provide assistance to others on the discord without giving away locations. I know my output isn't as prolific as the others on the site, but I hope to compensate for my lack of quantity with quality. Even if I can't find a POE in the moment, I can at least document the location and its hazards for those who come after.

Denied

zztop  •  5 months ago

I have been urban exploring for about a decade. I have posted 7 new locations and 13 albums, which exceeds the level 2 requirements

Denied

addie  •  5 months ago

Good Afternoon Folks, I am applying for level three. As a current level two member, I find most locations I am coming across are levels 3 & 4. I frequently stop when I have the chance doing deliveries and am always sure to mark the spot to return to with my partner later. My favourite part of exploring is really the history of the locations and the beautiful architectural highlights that often get lost in some of these locations. With access to a higher level, I would be able to contribute a larger volume of properties, as I find ypu always learn something from every location. On vacations I always make a list of places to stop a long the way and have been working at uploading everything ive collected over the many years I've done this. Always fun to meet fellow explorers but I dont find its something that doesnt happen too often! I would love the opportunity to be able to explore more of these beautiful locations. Thank you for your consideration 😊

Approved

nightmapzz  •  6 months ago

Hello OAP, my name is Mikah and I am applying for level 2 status. I've been on here for a couple years (which was about when I started exploring) but have mostly just been lurking until recently. "Living in trailers but life is a movie" in Oakville was my first explore and I've been to 50-55ish places since, From Hamilton to Oshawa, and north to Simcoe County.

Approved

JMacUrbex  •  6 months ago

Hey OAP Community, I’m writing to respectfully request a promotion to Level 2. I believe I’ve met the current requirements, with over three months of active participation, four documented locations, and 15 albums uploaded featuring a variety of sites and content levels. I also have many more albums in the pipeline, ready to be shared with the community. I first got into urbex back in October. At the time, I struggled to find quality locations, but being part of this community has helped me grow significantly in both knowledge and experience. I’ve worked hard to contribute meaningful content, and I’m excited to keep exploring and sharing more. Thank you for considering my request, and I appreciate everything this community has done to support my urbex journey. Best regards, JMacUrbex

Denied

KeyHb  •  6 months ago

I usually get my locations through word of mouth and g earth scouting, but now that I moved all of that got harder. Been doing this for 5 years but I guess why not give back to a community :) (plus I've been gatekeeping all my pics for way too long) I put some nice albums up that I hope you appreciate, can't wait to meet and maybe even explore with some of you all.

Approved

Imperia  •  7 months ago

Re-applying for level 3, I understand I have not met the requirements last time but I think I do now, ill give a quick break down of my contributions: 70 interior locations 4 exterior locations 200 interior albums 4 exterior albums (you can see the levels of my locs on the side panel) I also got a proper camera with which I am still learning new things about how to use it, but overall my photos are a lot better now and over half of my albums are with that camera so no more blurry grainy shots. but yep thats pretty much it, not much else to say, i hope you consider my re-application, and btw if you want to read more about how I explore and how I started, then you can look at my denied application, I wrote a bunch of stuff there.

Approved

UrbexGal  •  8 months ago

Being apart of the OAP community for the last 9 months has definitely been.. interesting to say the least xD I am a bit sad that most (basically all) of you live across the country so I haven't been able to meet up with anyone *yet*, but I have made some friendships over discord which is great! I've been exploring for as long as I can remember (really got more into it around 7 years ago), but was never really interested in the photography aspect of the hobby until joining the site and looking through old albums. I also lived my life with only thoughts and wonder of what a location could've been rather than spending hours trying to dig up history behind it. I reside 4hrs away from the closest major city, which is why most of my finds are old farm properties. I do have a long(ish) list of locations ranging from BC, AB & SK I am beyond excited to make trips for though:D Anyways, I look forward to the feedback and thanks for reading a sliver of my backstory & nightshift rambling lol.

Denied

B.  •  9 months ago

we ball

Denied

UnknownUbex?  •  10 months ago

I believe I should be upgraded to Level 2 in the OAP system because I have found five locations, most of them being Level 2, and I have visited 11 abandoned places. I have been urban exploring since last summer, gaining experience in finding and safely exploring these places. I understand the risks and challenges and always respect the locations I visit. With my effort and experience, I am ready for the next level.