I prompted this image to illustrate the sheer volume of small and large camera stores in Osaka. They seem omnipresent so it wouldn’t really surprise me if there actually was a vending machine selling cameras.

Having owned dozens of camera bodies and lenses over the years – mostly bought back in Sweden or at B&H in New York – my mindset when walking into these stores is now: will this actually enhance my photography, or is it just GAS (gear acquisition syndrome) shouting in my ear?

I haven’t suffered from GAS in years, yet every visit to a store in Osaka or Kyoto brings back that old temptation. Yesterday, I came within seconds of buying a new lens. Standing in line to pay, I hesitated at the very last moment and walked out empty-handed – feeling nothing but relief.

Today is daughter Elle’s 26th birthday. Desite the time difference, we’ve spoken, laughed and sung to celebrate her.