For Cultural Anthropology, Dr Wolfe

1. #VapeLife
Ember Carlson
Photo Observation
Cultural Anthropology
Dr. Wolfe
Nov 21 2015

2. “Vaping” is a fast growing new trend sweeping all across America right
now. This smoke free method of “smoking” has created its own sub
culture. From those trying to quit smoking, to those just looking for a
modern hobby many have flocked to vapeing. The Vapor spot is a popular
supply store and lounge for e-smoking participants.

3. Here is the bar which
participants can sit at and
peruse the menu of smoking
flavors. Similar to a bar it is a
time of socialization and
relational connection both
between fellow patrons and
between the patrons and staff.
There is a clear sense of
community as most people here
are already familiar with each
other. They know other’s names
and have a general idea about
other’s life happenings.

4. Here is the catalog of e-
juices available for
purchase. On each set
of bars there are a
couple laid out and
people can pick a few
to sample. An ejuice is
concoction with base
ingredients of water,
propylene glycol,
vegetable glycerin,
nicotine and flavoring.
Smokers can choose
various nicotine levels
to buy and there are
endless flavoring
possibilities, making
this activity personally
customizable and
potentially full of
creativity and
innovation.

5. Here the staff are working with
a customer to help find and
test out a new ejuice flavor. On
the table are small tanks of
each perspective flavor which
are then attached to her
personal mod (battery power)
and mouthpiece so she can
give them a taste.

6. Sitting on the bar is what’s called the Vape pen or mod. This is the
tool of the trade. Each one can be built to smoker preference but all
are battery powered and include a tank where the e-juice is dripped
in.

7. This is the main menu of popular items. As you can see the
vaping culture has a language all their own.

8. The culture of vaping is one of fun and creativity. Everything has a unique name.
E-juices in particular are an area of fun and invention as vendors create unique
lines of flavoring and names. Here is a collection of juices, named after popular
musicians. According to staff their flavors are created to reflect the musicians'
personality.

9. The Vapor spot is also a supply store carrying everything needed
for an e-smoker. The display unit is arranged from left to right in
item specificity. On the far left a patron can find a complete starter
kits. As the unit continues one can find specific parts to the
smoking contraption some mechanical and some cosmetic thus
allowing for participants to completely customize the device to their
liking. It seems each personal device reflects a lot about the user.

10. Maintenance is another
reason customers come
into the shop because few
have the knowledge and
tools necessary to upkeep
and repair the Vape pens.
The smoking device
functions essentially by an
electrical current powered
by a battery or two
generated to heat up the
ejuice which in being
inhaled by the smoker.

11. The modern and sleek
ideals found in vaping
even carry over to the
payment system. All
transactions are
completed over an
ipad equipped with a
credit card reader.

12. More than anything the
Vape Spot is a laidback
space where people can
spend time hanging out
with members of their
created community. This
picture represents what
the vape culture at this
shop is all about, sitting
back, relaxing and
enjoying your smoke-free
vapor.

13. The End!