The owner at Orphan Annie’s was kind enough to allow me to walk around with my big ol’ camera. Even though I shoot with a Mirorless Canon EOSR and those are quite small as far as cameras go, many people still feel intimidated by it. Not sure if my other photographer friends experience the parting of the people like the Red Sea when you walk in anywhere with a camera in hand, but it happens to me all the time. When I put on my 200mm people get really uncomfortable, like they think I’m stocking them or trying to blackmail someone.
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That’s why I walk around with a 35mm prime lens so much. It at least allows me to tuck my camera under my arm so to make others feel more at ease. It also forces me to look at an entire scene and not rely on the intricate details. It’s worth the missed opportunities because missed photo is what obliges me to live in the moment- something photographers forget to do sometimes.
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When I went into Orphan Annie’s I actually had accidentally grabbed my 50mm; which was ok but it was a bit tight cropping for what I was hoping for. That just basically means I looked like a crazy person trying to step back and take photos from around the corner. Not my most proud moment, but I think there’s an unwritten rule that says if you carry a camera everywhere you go (not a cell phone, but an ACTUAL camera) then you’re pretty much in the crazy category already. So the photos are a bit tight and of course Instagram size restrictions crops them in even closer.
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I am always struck by how beautifully done this antique store is. A true artist at work here and I had so much fun capturing all the incredible scenes that just inspire and come to life. Truly incredible spot that’s worth the time to check out. Even the window displays are beautiful. You don’t need to go in to appreciate the eye for design here. Any passerby is rewarded with a jolt of festive sentimentality.
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My trip was special on multiple accounts actually. For one, it lead me to an old friend who then lead me to many more old friends a couple Saturdays following. I like to think of these little run ins as Divine appointments.
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In my heart I am feeling festive, but it’s bittersweet because there has been so much sadness and death this year. There is also a lot of illness going around here in Maine, mostly flu and cold. Just more reminders to live in the moment, to be kind always to those you love, pray for those you do not; have hope for the future, but always remember to give thanks for today because the journey between life and death is never far from any of us or those that we so cherish. If you read this then thank you I appreciate you greatly. 
