Mindful Photography

What is mind·ful·ness?

"A mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique."

Steps to Mindfulness

With phone cameras providing high quality images, photography has never been more accessible. We carry our phones with us most places and can use our cameras to slow down, be in the moment and appreciate our surroundings.

Mindful photography is an activity that helps promote all 5 steps to mental wellbeing:

Pay attention to the present moment

Photography is a tool to help us to be in the moment and connect with the world around us, thoughts and feelings.

Be physically active

A walk in a park or on a trail is nourishing for your body, spending time in nature is refreshing and can help to positively change your mood.

Learning a new skill

Discover how to use your camera in new ways, boost your self-confidence, learn from peers and connect with others.

Connect with other people

Photography is an activity that can be shared in a group, go for a walk or meet up and share your pictures.

Give to others

Sharing your pictures and experiences with others contributes to positive feelings of giving back and supporting those around us.

These steps are based on the NHS 5 steps details at www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/

Sessions

Mindful photography can be offered in a variety of ways, below are a few examples of how it can be delivered in your community or organization:

Locations

• Outdoors in a park , beach or green space

• City or urban landscape

• Event venue, hotel or resort

• Indoors with access to a variety of spaces

Duration

• 60-90 minute intro sessions

• Half or full-day in-depth sessions (indoor and outdoor locations needed for full-day)

Equipment

• Most participants will use their cellphone camera to participate

• I have a 5 digital cameras I can loan to participants who do not have a device or camera

• For longer sessions we will print out images and have time for discussions

Connect