Can't access pics from Broken Screen on Nexus 6; no USB debugging :(

hi...

i've been researching this issue frantically and am about to bite the bullet and cough up the $150-$200 to get a new screen and hope and pray that it works but before i do i just wanted to reach out to the community and see if anyone has any advice for a last-minute fix...

- the screen is completely black and non-responsive
- phone works fine otherwise... phone rings, but can't answer; can't shut off alarms...
- bluetooth is off
- i don't have usb debugging on
- stock android (whatever came with the phone when i bought new in april 2016, i think marshmallow)
- the pics aren't backed up anywhere
- "ok google" doesn't work
- i downloaded the android developer's kit to use ADB to try to connect and perhaps enable USB debugging but was unsuccessful

i tried everything people are saying on the forums... here are some threads i've referenced...
http://ift.tt/2eIhXR9

http://ift.tt/2eIfvdf

this thread suggests i try using a usb-micro-hdmi converter w/a usb mouse to control phone but in order to try this the phone has to support mhl which it doesn't... can anyone validate?
How-to Recover Photos with a Cracked Android Screen

thanks all for any responses.