Raising the camera to my eye, I pressed the shutter and made a picture. Capturing the view of the sun sinking lazily in an umber sky from the balcony of our 24th-floor high-rise apartment, I wanted to remember my time in Shanghai that was coming to an end. Eventually, I would leave this incredible city of contrasts, most probably never to return. I wanted to capture the moment, that little slice of time. It’s the primary reason I carry a camera: to remember.
It’s said, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Over the years filled with many travels and experiences, I’ve found that to be so true. Nothing brings back a moment like a well-timed photograph. There is a certain satisfaction to be had from perusing images taken earlier journeys, adventures, or special moments while sipping a dram of Scotch or glass of mulled wine deep in a stormy winter’s night. Faded pictures easily coax faded memories to the present.
Travel to explore, experience, then shoot to document, to remember. Carry a camera. Make pictures. Give yourself a precious gift in the future. You will thank yourself you did.
Capture the moment. Save a memory.