Because I’m a photographer as well as a writer, I’m always on the lookout for things I can pick up along the way that can jazz up a photo shoot in the background, as props, or as a still life all by itself. This Crosley 1950s style Retro Pay Phone fits the bill nicely.

I would place this on an otherwise section of blank brick wall and shoot a series featuring a girl in a black leather jacket using it. Or maybe a sort of James Dean grease monkey thing. 

A set like that would make a good collection as part of a showing, or a great album cover, even just another section of the portfolio. This phone isn’t a pay-to-call model, but the coin op does work (complete with the little jingle sound when you insert the money) and makes a great change saver.

No, it’s not completely authentic–the ringer sound is modern–but if you’re not a complete purist, as a prop or functioning telephone this one’s a lot of fun.

Buy the Crosley Retro 1950s-Style Pay Phone for $65.60