Today was the perfect day to test out my new Nikon 35mm f/1.4 lens. It’s the first of November, and Florida finally got what we like to call a “cool front.” The morning started at a crisp 48 degrees and warmed into the low 70s—absolutely ideal weather. I took advantage of it by heading out to Fort De Soto Park for a walk with my dog and some time behind the camera.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f3.5, 1/800
Even though I started the walk right in the middle of the day—definitely not the best lighting for photos—I made the most of it. Once I got a feel for the new lens, it wasn’t long before I traded focusing on camera settings for focusing on my favorite walking buddy, my senior pup Kai. She’s a hound and German Shepherd mix, full of love (and a little extra fluff). Kai happily soaked up attention from every stranger we passed on the trail, her tail wagging the whole way around the park.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f2.0, 1/5000
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f2.0, 1/3000
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f1.4 1/4000
After our little photo session, Kai’s attention turned to the nearby wildflowers. She took her time sniffing around, curious but gentle, careful not to bother the honey bees that drifted in and out of the blooms. It was one of those quiet moments that reminded me why I love bringing my camera on these walks—there’s always something beautiful to notice if you slow down long enough.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f1.4 1/8000
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f1.4 1/8000
After photographing the flowers, I noticed a few trees along the coastline with seashells dangling from their branches. I couldn’t tell if someone had placed them there intentionally or if they were left behind by high surge levels from the last hurricane season. Either way, it was such an interesting sight—delicate shells swaying in the breeze—so I couldn’t resist taking a few photos of the scene.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f3.2 1/1250
Walking along the trails, I couldn’t help but admire the trees lining the edge of the water—especially the mangroves, with their roots weaving into the shoreline. These paths wind along the south side of the Manatee River near its mouth, and across the water, you can see Emerson Point in Palmetto—a spot I often visit to kayak and fish. The trees here twist and bend in shapes unlike anything I’ve seen before. With a cool breeze drifting through the branches and the water shimmering a clear blue, it was the perfect day for a hike. I couldn’t have asked for better weather or better company.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f10 1/125
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f11 1/125
Near the end of the trail, I came across two monuments—an obelisk and a towering cross that rises high into the sky. The site is owned by the Catholic Diocese of Venice, and the Memorial Cross was erected in 1995 to honor all priests of Florida, especially the twelve original priests and friars who sailed with De Soto on his expedition. After taking a few photos of the site, I wrapped up what had been an amazing walk. I loved every bit of it—the scenery, the light, and of course, the time spent with Kai. On the way home, we made one last stop for her well-earned pup cup, because she truly deserves it.
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f2.2 1/5000
35mm f1.4 – ISO 100, f10 1/400
Days like this remind me why I love photography—it’s not just about testing new gear or chasing perfect light. It’s about slowing down, noticing the little things, and capturing the moments that make life feel full. From the crisp morning air to Kai’s happy face and the quiet beauty of the trails, everything about today felt like a reminder to appreciate the simple joys that surround us.
