Pulled from my files this summer. An afternoon spent walking the streets in Venice with no agenda or destination. Just hours spent wandering instead.

It could easily have filled an entire day and it nearly did. Walking with only an open mind and a camera. Amazing how perspective changes when there is nowhere to go and nothing specific to do. Just walking and looking. Nothing more.

I imagine this is what it might be like to retire someday. Afternoons unencumbered by things needing to get done. Letting the eye and the camera lead the way instead of a timeframe or outcome. It feels like the more natural way to shoot. Capturing pictures as they happen without direction from the photographer. Observing rather than manipulating. Not using the camera to sell something for once. Instead, using it as a different type of tool. The ultimate tool.

One that gives a day meaning, releasing the mind, and fills the creative soul.