The French Market spans six blocks of the French Quarter, running just inland from the Mississippi River from Jackson Square down to the Old New Orleans Mint. It has been a market since 1791, one of the first markets in what would become the United States. Its oldest structures date from 1813, with major renovations coming in the 1930s and 1970s. Food stands, restaurants, cafes, a flea market, along with souvenir and craft shops, now fill its spaces. In this image, a pair of salesman awaits customers – even though there is no business in sight at the moment. I’ve caught an instant of hope mixed with tension here – they are probably wondering if I am a potential customer or just another photographer complicating their lives.