Per Cambridge Dictionary Online, the definition of “window shopping.”
window shopping
noun [ U ] (also window-shopping)
US /ˈwɪn.doʊ ˌʃɑː.pɪŋ/ UK/ˈwɪn.dəʊ ˌʃɒp.ɪŋ/
the activity of spending time looking at the goods on sale in store windows without intending to buy any of them:
We’re going to do some window shopping but for different reasons. To see how we can coordinate processes of photography to the act of searching. Attention to detail is important. The details to look for are dependent on one’s interest. One aspect, to see how reflective surfaces like windows and polished steel bring added dimensions to photographs. Small glimpses of architecture in the neighborhood adding clues as to where and when.
There are lots of ideas that could suitably run through our minds when window shopping. Imagination. Empathizing. Consideration. Rationalizing. Counting. Appreciation. Doubting. Creative thinking. And so much more. No idle thoughts here.
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Besides word of mouth advertising, having the excitement of the first iPhone on display in the windows of Apple Stores was a great way to promote sales. The large-sized mock-up looks good, and easy comprehension in introducing their smartphone.
Coinciding around the same years as the introduction of the iPhone, social media giants began sprouting. Twitter, Reddit, Facebook, Instagram. Then comes online shopping. With that, the shrinking of brick and mortar retailers—closing the link to the demise of window shopping. No physical stores, no windows to display.
With window displays such as those above, can you guess with some certainty as to which part of the city the stores are located?
Many people wouldn’t take a second glance in passing by this window display. Yet, it offers an opportunity to think about what the establishment offers for sale.
From utilitarian products on display to couture clothing. Discount versus high-priced. Paper towels versus leather jackets. Potato chips versus hot dog handbags.
I’ve not done much window shopping in my lifetime. I typically know what I want before shopping for items. Being a relatively recent series, I’m happy to continue the visual exercise to further gain more knowledge and experiences.
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So sad brick and mortar stores are fading away. I would get to New York right before or after the holidays many years ago. The window displays were breathtaking. Also I liked the bustling crowds of people.