Sketches

Even after spending many years as a professional photographer, I rarely bring a camera with me when traveling for fun. Instead, I chose my sketchbook for capturing memories of the places I visit. There’s something deeply satisfying about sketching—it forces me to slow down and fully immerse myself in my surroundings.

When I sketch, it’s not about rushing from one landmark to the next or trying to tick items off a list. It’s about finding a spot that feels just right and settling in for a while. I take time to notice the details: the shifting light, the interplay of shapes, the richness of colors around me. If everything feels in harmony, that’s when I pull out my sketchbook, along with my pastels or pens, and begin. My goal isn’t to produce a perfect, precise drawing but to capture the spirit of a place—the mood, the atmosphere, the things that make it unique. (I’ll admit, this approach also makes for a handy excuse when I’m out of practice and my lines are anything but straight or level!)

Sketching opens up a different kind of space for me, one that feels contemplative and deeply personal. It’s more than just drawing; it’s about feeling my way into the essence of a place. I try to capture not just what I see but also what I hear, smell, and sense—the rustle of leaves in the breeze, the distant hum of voices, or the way sunlight warms the wall I’m often sitting on.

No matter where I am in the world, sketching connects me more deeply to my environment. It turns every destination into an experience, one that’s richer and more textured because I’ve taken the time to truly observe, reflect, and engage with it on my own terms. For me, this process isn’t just about creating art; it’s about creating memories that feel as vivid and alive as the moment I first experienced them.