One of the things I love to do while traveling is browsing charity and antique shops. On a recent wander, I came across a shop called Pascal and Co which drew me in from its rainbow-coloured window display. As a still life photographer, I’m always on the lookout for unique and interesting objects for inspiration.
Entering the shop was like stepping back in time. The clothes, bric-a-brack, homeware and trinkets, evoked this cozy nostalgia, different from your high streetcharity shop.
The shop’s lovely owner, Asta, told me that all the pieces she sold were both beautiful and held special meaning to her, whether she collected them on her travels or she pored her time and care into mending.
While looking around, I spotted this electric orange, watermelon like bag hanging by the window. Its outside was plush velvet and had a fluffy white trim that was so satisfying to run your fingers through. Inside it was a small gold and green manicure set. Although it’d never been used, I imagined someone glamorous and impeccably put together, perhaps taking it on a steam train across the country, or maybe just perched on an elegant dresser with little bottles of perfume and makeup. (Asta later revealed it was from America, 1960s)
As a commercial still life photographer, I’m fascinated by the way objects can hold stories of their owners, their time and place in history.
Still life photographer
I hope you enjoyed this series of still life photographs as much as I enjoyed making them. You’ll find more of my still life photography here.
If you’d like to chat about a photoshoot, please contact me directly here or through my agent.
