As a general rule, I think technology has made it far more difficult to be present in nature and present in the small, beautiful moments. There is one convenience that I think is actually the exception to this rule, and it’s the fact that we all walk around with cameras in our pockets.

Have you ever witnessed a scene so beautiful that you didn’t ever want to leave? I know I certainly have. Now, whenever I come across a stunning sunset, a calm low tide, or another beautiful scene I always snap a photo of it. But here’s the important part…

Don’t stand there as the sun is setting and watch it happen through the screen on your phone. That’s a great way to completely miss the moment. There are a few options. For one, you can just take a quick photo and then put your phone away to enjoy the moment. One thing I love to do is set up a tripod or find somewhere to rest my phone. I can take a video or time lapse without having to stare at the screen once the shot it set up, sometimes I even bring my bluetooth remote out with me so I can click photos continuously without being right next to my phone.

If those options aren’t going to cut it for you, then just set up your shot, brace your arms, and click away blindly. But make sure you keep your eyes on the sky, literally, and not on your phone.