Memories, unfiltered

Photo by Misa the Great

Moments with family, times with the people who are precious to you. Great times with friends, unique experiences, moments of triumph and big achievements. Simple walks in nature, admiring beautiful sunsets and wonderful scenery. Discovering secret beaches, rare flowers, or just cute animals.

That moment when your pet does the most unexpected thing, or when your child makes their first steps. When your other half smiles happily. The day that you moved in your new house, or the first drive in your new car. A friend's wedding or your birthday party.

All kinds of memories are surely fuller, more clear, intense, detailed and maybe even staying with you for longer, if you are focused on the moment. When you open all your senses to the things that make a moment special. 

But, if you are only focusing on which filter you should use on your camera, or which angle you should go with, how will you later remember the way you felt at that moment? If you see the memory only through your lens, what feeling will manage to be imprinted in your heart? 

My opinion? Unless you are an actual photographer at work or an inspirational peak, put your camera down and live life with both your eyes open and your hands free to embrace the world.