Spotted SF / North Beach / Aria Antiques
I randomly found this store over 10 years ago and ended up leaving with a few vintage keys for an art display in my home. I hadn’t returned since, as the place seemed closed each time I decided to stop in again. Turns out the sweet owner of this shop, Bill, spends half of each year traveling through Europe, especially to his other home in France. But yesterday on my wander, I was so happy to see this little treasure trove open on Grant and chat with Bill about our travels. There is nothing lavish or extravagant about this shop, but the pieces are so thoughtfully collected by Bill, you’ll surely find something simple and beautiful to covet.
Aria Antiques
1522 Grant Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94133
tel: 415 433 0219
No website
* All images by me, Leslie.
Beautiful shots!
Thank you so much! I appreciate the feedback.
I have been following what you are doing with great interest. The set of images you produce of those locations are unreal. How do you work? Do you scout for locations first and then ask permission to shoot them? Do you shoot handheld or on tripod? Great theme for a blog. Keep ’em coming!
Some of these places I’ve visited regularly, others I found just wandering around the city. I always ask the shopkeepers or owners for permission first to take pictures and I tell them about my site. They appreciate that – especially that I’m promoting them and that I’m not a competitive spy:) Sometimes I email the shop in advance and ask beforehand, so they can preview my site before I stop in. They’ve been very welcoming once I take these extra steps and I generally end up staying at the shop for 20 min talking to them while taking pictures. I use my regular Nikon DSLR and my iPhone – no tripod. I’m not a pro – just love to play around with the settings until I have a few images that I’m happy with. Thanks for the feedback and encouragement. This new blogging project has been lots of fun!!
SF has so many interesting and unique retail places. Certainly not national chain stores! Your work makes me really want to explore these places for myself.