places Old Store with Flag

Thanks for viewing. Comments are appreciated.

I really enjoy pictures like this, because they bring me a strong feeling about the simplicities of life. Good job.

Nicely done. Simple, but balanced with great tones.

Doug, I've been meaning to speak to you for some time, but time has slipped away from me...so, finally I'm here! I've been a fan ever since David Meyer told me about your work and have visited your portfolio several times. I really like this photograph...but have to admit that what really grabbed me was that I'm familiar with the building. I live in Chattanooga, but grew up around Kingston and Knoxville. I did extensive sales work in Lake City, Clinton, and every mile between there and the KY. line. Seeing this shot gave me a sense of "home". Maybe I'm a bit biased toward this one...but I believe I'd actually admire it just as much if I hadn't actually stood close to where you were shooting. best regards, john

Thanks everyone! John, it is a delight to "meet" you, and I appreciate your comments about my work. I'm glad this generated a sense of nostalgia for you. This is as far north as I went on this trip. But I want to venture more into your territory up toward the KY line.

A great Americana scene Doug. Very well seen and framed.....Jim

Jim, I appreciate it. If anybody knows Americana, its you!

I hope you won't mind if I act the contrarian here. The image is fine. I might have tried to lighten up the deepest shadow of the window and doorway, but that is a minor complaint. It's what the image puts on the table that kind of tweaks me. Clearly this is not a booming hub of retail activity. Yet what dominates the window, but the flag. Not even properly displayed. I suppose the owner was innocently attempting to show his identification with the larger patriotic culture of our country. So be it. To me this is symptomatic of the loss of focus in this nation. My guess is that this is a rural town that struggles to survive and keep its identity. I can't tell you how many similar places I have recently visited. I fear that we will soon be a nation of hairdressers, accountants, lawyers insurance salesmen and purveyors of Chinese products. Proud patriots going down the tubes. To me this flag is not symbolic of our patriotism, but symbolic of our propensity for symbols and slogans instead of substance. And while you as well as many others may disagree with that assessment, all that is by way of saying that the photograph does speak to me.