Photographer | Author | Heritage Researcher

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I'm Rebecca Brownlie, an award-nominated photographer, author and heritage storyteller, and the founder of Abandoned NI.

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For over a decade, I've documented Ireland's abandoned buildings, historic landmarks and forgotten places, uncovering the stories of the people who lived and worked within them.

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My work goes beyond photography. Through historical research, books, television, exhibitions, public talks and guided heritage tours, I bring the past to life and reconnect people with the history on their doorstep.

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I'm the author of the bestselling Abandoned Ireland books, with Abandoned Ireland Volume 1 receiving a nomination for Best Irish Book of the Year at the 2022 An Post Irish Book Awards.

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I presented and showcased my photography and historical research in BBC's Abandoned Ulster, bringing viewers inside some of Northern Ireland's forgotten buildings and exploring the stories behind them. I have also appeared as a contributor on BBC's Barra on the Foyle, UTV's Hidden NI, and RTÉ's Tréige, produced by DoubleBand Films, sharing my knowledge and research into Ireland's built heritage.

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My photography has also been exhibited nationally and internationally. Most recently, I participated in BIEN at Belfast Exposed, presenting work exploring Northern Ireland's forgotten Ulster-Scots built heritage. 

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I believe every building has a story worth preserving. From forgotten linen mills and grand country houses to former prisons and police stations, my work explores the people, industries and communities that shaped these places.

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Alongside my photography and research, I develop heritage experiences and creative projects that make history accessible, engaging and relevant to modern audiences.

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I also provide location scouting and research for local film and television productions, helping production teams identify distinctive historic buildings, atmospheric settings and lesser-known locations across Ireland.

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My extensive knowledge of historic and abandoned properties allows me to connect productions with locations that suit their creative vision.

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I'm always interested in collaborating with councils, museums, heritage organisations, community groups, film and television production companies, and businesses to help document, preserve and promote our shared built heritage.

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For general enquires: iamabandonedni@gmail.com

For book enquiries: finegan@zenoagency.com