I stopped one morning in the city of Billings, Montana, in attempt to find a new battery for my camera. I did some research, and found a number for the city’s only camera shop, called and asked them if they sold batteries. No, they did not. The man on the other line suggested I try a battery shop instead, which he gave me directions to. To my surprise, I was able to procure what I needed. So, pleased with the success of the day, I decided to hang out do some exploring before hitting the road again.
Billings is a cool, western cowboy-ish town, where you can go into any market or store, and pick up a new pair of spurs, some chaps, a bridle, lariat, perhaps a saddle blanket, or any other assorted piece of tack. The smell of leather took me back to my days as a “horsey girl”. It is this town, surrounded by big skies, ranches and mountains, where I imagined many of my favorite Cowboy & Indian books taking place.
I eventually stumbled upon that camera shop, which turned out to be my favorite kind. Upon entering, I was told, quite plainly, “we don’t have digital”. The place was packed with every analogue camera, lens & accessory imaginable, and I felt like I struck gold. Kyle, the owner, and I eventually bonded over the fact that we have the same favorite camera. His store has been open for 24 years, and began as a big yard sale that never ended. He gave me a gift before I left: the only box of film he had in the place, a roll of Kodachrome 25 slide film that expired in 1986. I can’t wait to shoot it.
*phone pics
WOW…..awesome.
I need the address to this place!!
Great story..