Welcome to Softer Focus

28 Jul, 2026

This blog is about mindful photography and how to cultivate care through it. It explores the intersections between photography, philosophy, psychology, poetry, self-care, empathy, conviviality, and community. Connecting with one's self through photography, and connecting with the environment and with others.

I want to encourage photographers, amateur or otherwise, to work from a philosophy of care and mindfulness toward both self- and communal improvement. Bettering the self while bettering society.

I took the photo above in Mexico City. Behind me, there was a large protest of teachers fighting for better wages. Meanwhile, a man was cleaning his tour bus, almost oblivious to the fuss around him. I snapped this on a digicam I've had to hold together with duct tape. An unfussy tool. Just point and shoot it.

There was far more action and excitement behind me. But what caught my attention was how purposefully this man was moving while he cleaned his bus. A simple camera for a simple photo. The image still brings me back there, and it still makes me happy.

This is softer focus: mindful in and of the moment and sharing it (sometimes secretly) with a place, a time, or a subject. This is how a photograph becomes a poem. This is how a photograph can heal and express care in such a valuable way. I hope, as this blog and I evolve, you will join me for the ride. Like a tourist on a tour bus, come along with me and be sure to have a good time.