Les bouquinistes

For hundreds of years, the booksellers have opened their green boxes in almost any weather, to sell their wares. It's a treasure trove of antique and used books, prints, magazines, and now assorted souvenirs for the eager tourists. I'll admit to purchasing some lovely vintage prints and posters myself. C'est Paris!

100 French Strangers #86 - Le bouquiniste

When strolling the streets of Paris, sometimes I stop and engage with people on the street. Other times I photograph Parisians who are oblivious to me and my camera. I really enjoy both. This day, this bouquiniste had such an engaging smile, I stopped to chat. He was happy to pose with the book he was reading en anglais ! I encourage everyone to try street photography. It enriches my travels in so many ways.

Livres anciens

I've passed Cabinet Chaptal many times,  as it is located on the corner just across the street from Jardin du Luxembourg. I'm not sure it's ever been open when I peered in, so I"ve just taken shots through the bars across the windows.  I hope one day to go in and have a long look. Maybe I'll be lucky, and they will allow photos.

Cabinet Chaptal

1 rue de Fleurus

75006 Paris

L' homme et les livres

I couldn't decide if he was buying or selling. It didn't matter really.

Les cartes postales

You know where this is.

Le chapeau violet

Shakespeare & Company

One can stay in Paris for days, weeks, months and never tire of photographing the many beautiful buildings. parks and monuments.  When I'm there, of course I love that, but what I'm always in search of are those moments when you capture an image that had you been a minute too early or too late.......you would have missed.  I think this gentleman seated behind this suitcase full of books ( which I've photographed on other trips ) was just such a shot.  Actually, I had more than a minute.  He sat through several snaps, perhaps in awe of what the crazy américain photographer was doing, and then I wandered off and came back and he was still there,  so I took that to mean I needed to give it another go.  Merci Monsieur ( looking good in that purple cap) !

01.06.09

" Wary Bookseller"

" le Louvre"

Saint- Paul-Saint-Louis Church

le Marais