Date: March 2013
Camera: Sony DSC-H7
Focal length: 24.10 mm
Exposure: 1/125 sec; f/3.5; ISO 100
Lightroom adjustments; cropping; Nik Collection Silver Effects Pro for monochrome conversion
This is a view of the defunct but still standing Bethlehem steel mill in Bethlehem, PA. I took this photo from inside the casino resort nearby from a banquet hall that is across from the mill. The immediate vicinity has been turned into an entertainment center including a casino resort, a shopping mall, and an outdoor concert arena called Steel Stacks. It’s an interesting site to walk around if one likes to photography rusty or abandoned items. Bethlehem Steel went bankrupt in 2001 and was liquidated in 2003. There’s lots of info on the web about why it didn’t survive if you’re interested. Just google “what happened to Bethlehem Steel?”
7 comments posted
Phyllis Peterson
That is such a cool photo. I was aware of the closing of the steel mill when I lived in New Jersey. Surprised it is still standing! I like the monochrome conversion. I can't suggest any improvement. The sky has some interest. Well done! Posted: 12/11/2025 14:26:12
Tom Tauber
Imposing structure. Black and white is a good choice for this subject matter. Posted: 12/11/2025 16:21:56
Pinaki Sarkar
lighting appears flat or overcast, dense layering of industrial elements makes it visually complex but is interesting, foreground is little cluttered. Nik Silver Effect has Gritty version I would try that Posted: 12/14/2025 18:03:16
John Larson
Interesting picture of times gone by. The conversion to black and white helps give it a dreary mood appropriate for the subject. To fit more into the Travel category I would like to see you get out and walk around the facility and include more of the surroundings like an empty railroad car or things like that to give one a better feels for the environment around the abandoned steel mill. Posted: 12/20/2025 13:59:16
David Somali-Chow
I like how you have the image in monochrome. The tonal range and the pattern of the exhaust and tubing make the image interesting, with a repeating pattern of the building's wood paneling and painted white light posts. Unique PT image of a man-made structure. Posted: 12/22/2025 18:39:46
Laurie Bergner
Really interesting photo and the black-and-white is great. It's complexity. Makes us want to look at it for a while. Definitely a good thing. I wish that the sky had a little more contrast. Posted: 12/22/2025 19:10:42
Laurie Bergner
Really interesting photo and the black-and-white is great. It's complexity. Makes us want to look at it for a while. Definitely a good thing. I wish that the sky had a little more contrast. Posted: 12/22/2025 22:45:10
