Paris, Street Photography (9e-2e)

On an overcast bright afternoon, I tried using only a 35mm lens to capture activity on a few streets.  My walk began at one of the métro stops for République and continued into the 2e arrondissement.  Because some colours were washed out by the bright sun, I decided to use black and white, giving an older feel to the exercise.

Walking side streets in Paris

Our final day in Paris is invariably a Sunday, an opportunity to walk wherever we wish, always attending a final Sunday organ recital at St Eustauche.  Our all-day stroll meandered around Bastille, a market, over to the Marais (the water creating the marsh disappeared many decades ago), into the 3rd arrondissement and beyond.  We hope to return next spring.

I never heard her actually play anything resembling a tune, but she apparently discovered that the folk instrument helps attract attention and sympathy.

If only we were staying longer, we could have stocked up on some splendid fish.

The weather (June 8th) was warm, it was a Sunday, and the cafés were filling, especially the tables on the sidewalks, both on important streets and those unassuming.

We came across several alleys with interesting graffiti, nicely shaded, which meant they could be photographed more easily.

 

Vernaison Antiquaires (Antique Market), Paris

Most national capitals have decent flea markets and antique districts.  Paris is no exception, and you can find both types of markets nearly side by side at the northern edge of the city.  Take the métro to Porte de Clignancourt or Porte de Saint-Ouen, on or near the Blouvard Ney, and follow the people.  Look for lots of awnings, old trucks, immigrants/tourists, and junk.  I went to shoot the flea market, but found the antique district much more interesting.

It was Saturday, so cafés were busy on that early October fall afternoon.

Being near the Périférique (highway which encircles Paris), graffiti was everywhere.