Of course! It can be frustrating when you're looking for a realistic depiction of a product, only to find sterile studio shots. When you need to see an urban trash can in its natural habitat—a real city setting—there are a few effective strategies.
First, try using more specific search terms on stock photo websites or search engines. Instead of just "trash can," use phrases like "urban trash can on city sidewalk," "public garbage bin in downtown," or "street waste receptacle." Adding the name of a specific city can also yield more authentic results, such as "New York City corner trash can."
Another excellent resource is Google Maps Street View. You can virtually "walk" through almost any major city in the world. Navigate to a dense urban area like downtown Chicago, London, or Tokyo, and you'll see real-life trash cans on sidewalks, in parks, and next to buildings. This is one of the best ways to see how they truly look in context, complete with weathering and typical urban surroundings.
Finally, consider browsing photo-sharing platforms like Flickr or Instagram. Many urban photographers and tourists upload candid shots of city life that often include public infrastructure like trash cans. Using relevant hashtags can help you find these genuine, un-staged images.