Down the Road

Photographs and stories by Jim Grey

single frame: F. S. Schardein & Sons

Jim Grey
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Ghost sign

F. S. Schardein & Sons
Nikon F3, 35mm f/2.8 AI Nikkor
Adox HR-50
Adox HR-DEV 1+49

Sometimes you just get the feeling that there’s an interesting photograph when you walk up on a scene. I got that feeling here.

I moved all about this little parking lot trying to find the right composition, my camera at my face. I’m sure someday I’m going to trip over something doing that. Finally I noticed the plane of the ghost-sign wall intersecting with the plane of the light streak in the pavement, and I knew I had my shot.

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Comments

8 responses to “single frame: F. S. Schardein & Sons”

  1. J P Avatar
    J P

    First, what a great shot. Also, I love the simple, straightforward names of those old long-gone businesses.

    Reply
    1. Jim Grey Avatar
      Jim Grey

      Yes, everything has to have a focus-grouped, highly marketable name now. That’s how we get businesses like Benjamin Franklin, The Punctual Plumber.

      Reply
  2. bodegabayf2 Avatar
    bodegabayf2

    Nice shot! And fortunate that the parking lot is empty…really adds to the loneliness of the scene.

    Reply
    1. Jim Grey Avatar
      Jim Grey

      I’m starting to realize I’m drawn to lonely scenes.

      Reply
  3. DougD Avatar
    DougD

    Great mood in that shot. I appreciate these old signs, and always wonder about the businesses.

    Reply
    1. Jim Grey Avatar
      Jim Grey

      I like ghost signs like this, too. I Googled the company and find evidence it might still be in business, but in a different Louisville location. They don’t have a Web site.

      Reply
  4. Kodachromeguy Avatar
    Kodachromeguy

    Nice framing and great negative! I love these lonely scenes, as you do. This is worth revisiting with a 4×5″ camera or larger.

    Reply
    1. Jim Grey Avatar
      Jim Grey

      Oh wow, what a great image you could make here with large format!

      Reply

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