Exploring the Colorful Ruins of Turntable Junction: A Glimpse into Abandoned Americana

Nestled in the heart of Flemington, New Jersey, lies a hidden gem of nostalgia and decay—Turntable Junction. Once a bustling hub of activity, this abandoned site tells a story of small-town America, vibrant with life, that has now faded into a tapestry of colors and memories. As I wandered through this fascinating space, I couldn’t help but feel a deep connection to its past.

Turntable Junction was once a lively gathering place, characterized by its distinctive architecture, mom and pop shops, and lively atmosphere. It served as a crossroads for both locals and visitors, bringing together a community that thrived on connection and commerce. Over the years, however, as trends shifted and the economy changed, this once-thriving junction fell into neglect, leaving behind a haunting yet beautiful reminder of what it once was.

The Beauty of Decay

What struck me most about Turntable Junction was its vibrant colors juxtaposed against the decay. Nature has begun to reclaim the space, intertwining itself with the remnants of buildings and structures. Graffiti artists have added their own flair, turning the peeling paint and crumbling walls into a canvas of creativity. The bright hues of spray paint breathe life into the decay, creating a striking contrast that captures the imagination.

As I strolled through the overgrown paths and explored the empty spaces, I was met with a poignant blend of sadness and beauty. It’s a reminder of the impermanence of life and the ever-evolving nature of community spaces. Each corner I turned unveiled new sights—a rusty old sign, a faded mural, or the remnants of a once-bustling storefront—all whispering stories of days gone by.

A Reflection on Small-Town America

Turntable Junction stands as a testament to the ideals of small-town America. It represents the charm, character, and sense of community that once thrived in places like Flemington. In its heyday, it was a gathering spot where neighbors shared stories, kids played, and dreams were nurtured. Now, as I walked its silent streets, I reflected on the evolution of such spaces and the importance of preserving our local history.

While Turntable Junction may be in a state of decay, it still holds immense potential. As we witness the rise of urban exploration and the appreciation for forgotten places, I believe it’s crucial to find ways to honor and rejuvenate such sites. Whether through preservation efforts, artistic endeavors, or community initiatives, we can breathe new life into these spaces, ensuring that they continue to tell their stories for generations to come.

If you ever find yourself in Flemington, take a moment to visit Turntable Junction. Embrace the beauty of its decay and reflect on the vibrant community that once thrived there. Who knows what stories await you in its colorful ruins?

Hard to describe the feeling I get this time of year when the leaves start to change.  It’s a sense of urgency and attraction that is tough to quell.  It’s a must-have, the color is the it thing, that object that you just must posses.  But, you can not posses it.  There is nothing you can do with the beauty other than behold, take it in.  Admire the beauty in breakdown, the color of change.  

Always ready with the Minutemen

We had a chacne to jump the pond and play some basketball in London over the summer.  I’m hype to share more photos and some exclusive prints to match, stay tuned.

My real bad.  I have meant to blog.  I have so muh to share, lots happening, times they are a changing.  Speaking of which, see the black pants photo?  Those are just SOME of the pairs of black pants I burned through over the last few years.  In total, I would say that I have used 50 - 60 pairs of pants for weddings.  They don’t last long.

There are many universal truths. Here’s one: Hard work equals success.  Put the time in and you will see results.  These young men work hard. Daily. And it shows.  #alwaysready with The Lower Bucks Minutemen  A great program for anyone serious about success. 

I had the honor of photographing the women who organize and run the Stoutsburg Sourland

African American Museum.  

With a New Year - Comes new beginnings!  It was nice to connect with Michael for a portrait session in the new studio!   Michael did not have to travel far to get here as he is my actual neighbor :) 

I am looking forward to using the space for more portraits, stay tuned for some new projects!

If “Small Town Mayor, Big City Attitude” was a person, it’d be Mayor Paul.  Paul greeted me at his home and promptly invited me in. He started by offering me a few goodies – the coolest of which was a board game called Hopeopoly, which he proudly helped design during Covid.  Think Monopoly meets Hopewell mash-up, with trivia and local geography.  Paul had no idea that I’m a major geography and trivia nerd, however, my family does so they are not so willing to engage me for the inevitable L.

For the portrait session, we walked around town and stopped by the locations Paul was most proud of.  We would have made our way around town quicker but about every other car stopped to say hi, or just yell, “Hey Mayor Paul!”

Considering Paul is both a Mayor and a Lawyer, that’s saying a lot.    Glad to know Paul and happy we didn’t get pelted with tomatoes  – which is a segue to mentioning that, if you are in Hopewell, be sure to pick up some smashed tomato spread on freshly baked bread from Nomad Pizza.  After enjoying the pizza, take a walk around the town.  It’s a clean, safe lovely little town, and an ideal place to live, thanks in large part to Mayor Paul!

Welcome to Baby Luna, the newest addition to Michele and Joe’s beautiful family. Meeting and photographing this precious baby girl was an absolute delight, and she proved to be the perfect little model, charming us with her adorable presence throughout the entire shoot.

This was a session a little closer to the heart than normal.  I had known Michele for over a decade before we both had little ones :)

I have had the pleasure of photographing her family a few times over the years, and once we climbed a mountain to make some epic portraits!   

Fun fact.  Joe also happens to be my go-to guy when I need a male model for commercial work and we have spent a lot of time together shooting … socks! 

It is so great to connect with friends and create timeless art!