What do you say about Florence, Italy? It’s a conundrum. The birthplace of the Renaissance, the cultural center of Europe. Cathedrals and museums are world-class. And that’s Florence’s problem. It’s being loved to death by hordes of tourists. And following the hordes, like bees to a field of clover, are the crass purveyors of luxury goods. Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci, Prada stores occupy what were once artists’ studios and sculptors workshops.
Where else can you stroll the same pedestrian streets walked by Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Botticelli while savoring the world’s best gelato.
___Rick Steves
The dichotomy is profound. But people, locals, and tourists alike sail through their everyday lives, happy to be soaking up all that Florence has to offer.
Back in the day, I actually studied photography in Florence for a few months, and my photography teacher took away my digital camera and said, ‘No, use this – it’s analog and it’s square.’ It was a Holga camera, a very cheap $3 or $4 plastic camera. And that’s what inspired ‘Instagram’.
___Kevin Systrom
But, in spite of it all, Florence is calling me back.
Amy
22 Aug 2018I love these everyday moments of Florence, and so very beautifully processed.
Thank you for sharing with us.
Btw, I have joined Rick Steves’ travel a couple of times. 🙂
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018I am pleased you enjoyed the post. I’ll bet the Steves’ groups are well done. Thanks, Amy
maristravels
22 Aug 2018Ah! I remember it well!
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018Happy memories I hope.😀
CarolynEliason
22 Aug 2018Nice collection Ron.
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018Thank you so much, Carolyn
Tina Schell
22 Aug 2018Hey Ron! Thanks for joining the challenge. Wonderful post. I’m partial to the impressionist images but that’s just me 😀
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018I’m not surprised after looking at you recent post.😀 Thanks, Tina.
Alison and Don
22 Aug 2018This is a wonderful collection that captures much more than tourist Florence. I especially love the opening shot, and the two that look like paintings.
Alison
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018Thank you, Alison. I’ve had fun processing a few images to be reminiscent of impressionist paintings.
Rupali
24 Aug 2018Wonderful gallery Ron. Every image is special in itself and yes the processing is fantastic.
fotograffer
24 Aug 2018Thank you, Rupali. Your comment is much appreciated.
Dalo 2013
25 Aug 2018Great views of life once again, Ron. Wonderful.