This. If it's a location I think might be monitored, I often will make it obvious on my first trip that I'm just a curious passerby with a camera. Check a few doors, take pics of the exterior, walk around in plain sight. The only thing I won't do is actually go inside until I'm confident there's no-one around. This allows you to test the waters so to speak. To see just how monitored it is and to get a feel for their response time. Don't be afraid to waste an entire day driving out somewhere only to be turned back. If you gained valuable intel on a location, then it's not a waste after all.Nicotti wrote:Easy way to check if it's being watched. Wander around outside being totally obvious and checking all the entry points. If security or someone asks you what you're doing, play dumb.saintshithead wrote:Haha, solid tips. The only reason I've never tried calling is cause I'm spooked they'll keep an extra eye out, or whatever.
I just took a long drive recently to an old place that looked vacant. I pulled up to the front gate, as obviously as possible. Brought along a pair of binoculars and my zoom lens for a proper reconnaissance. I was taking pics out front for only about a minute before the grumpy security guard came out and opened the gate. I approached and spoke to him and it was clear he was pissed I was even there. Had I tried sneaking in, he would have definitely called the cops and sat back in his hidden office and watched my arrest unfold. So that location is on the backburner, to be checked up on in about a year. And if he's still there, then the year after and so on. Eventually he'll leave or the place will get reused or demolished. Either way, I'll be waiting patiently.