I went to a nearby thrift store the other day and spotted a Polaroid 600 Close-Up camera on the shelf. As usual I checked for any remaining exposures, and for the first time in years I found some remaining. Just 2. The flash charged - slowly - and I took the first photo with the close-up lens in place. It seemed to take forever for it to eject. I slid the close-up lens over, turned the flash off & took the second shot. A longer exposure and longer ejection than the first.
Then I moved along and somewhat nervously slid the photos into my back pocket. Was I actually going to steal them?
Although I didn't buy the camera, or anything else that day, I did take the photos with me. I was now a thief.
I have donated, and purchased, much from this particular store over the years, but I still felt a bit guilty for taking something away that I didn't actually pay for. Just a little. I've had some good finds there in the past but never usable film. It was exciting on both counts.
I went there again yesterday to drop off a couple of boxes and after the donation I went in the store again. Nothing of interest. But I did leave $2 by the cashier as I left. Now I feel better.
