METHODOLOGY

What is Therapeutic Photography?

What is Mindful Photography?

What is it?

Mindfulness and Photography

By bring two learned crafts: the ancient practice of Mindfulness involves being aware in the present moment, without judgement. Mindfulness can be practiced through a variety of activities, including meditation, eating, conversation and of course Photography.

Mindful Photography has been studied and now forms part of a wider process called Therapeutic Photography where you can explore more about yourself in a safe and structured way. Workshops and sessions are a way to increase self-knowledge, self-esteem, self-efficacy and resilience in an effective and accessible way as Mary has followed through the Neil Gibson Therapeutic Photography programme (formerly accredited via the Robert Gordon University).

Mindful Photography is a wonderful way to slow down, take notice and nurture your awareness on your journey with image making. The beauty of Mindful photography is that you are the one in control, guided through Mary and other participants you can nurture your creativity and curiosity (with a child-like openess).

Mindful Photography, sometimes known as contemplative photography, allows you to take some time out and focus on yourself and your surroundings. Previous participants feedback noted their anxiety levels reduce, they become more patient and motivated in their daily lives. Once learnt, this technique can be practiced when you feel the need to have some reflective time to yourself.

Accessibility

The beauty of Mindful photography is that it is accessible to everyone. Spending time in nature is beneficial because it allows you to become more grounded, relaxed and re-energised. We provide a welcoming environment that offers you the chance to try a new technique. Using the five natural senses we explore the connections between well-being and nature in a safe environment.

Happy Out

Personally Mary is happer when outside as the opportunities are endless, no matter what the season. Photographing nature whilst moving (mindful motion) - so whether rambling or walking the dog and stopping, breathing in the fresh air and taking moments to reflect and focus on the ordinary - it is here that we can find those extraordinary moments captured within the frame of our eyes and cameras.

Mary has worked over the course with a range of clients and groups; and acknowledged the need for creativity and time to 'be'. It has becone even more important as life can become exhausting with commitments, particularly after the Lockdown period and for those who are facing difficult journeys and would like to take control of their own mental health outside of medication and/or professional therapy.

Focus Workshops are bespoke and formulated through co-creation with Look Again and Therapeutic Photography programmes whereby the participants will acknowledge objectives and achieve goals without pressure, judgement or competition.

Why call it Therapeutic and Mindful Photography?
Mary's working life has always been community based as a social photographer with deadlines and orders to achieve. However, it was during Lockdown that she needed more than work or a hobby and found that to go back to basics and combine photography with wellbeing more. Mary learned and experimented with different activities and courses/programmes and has seen so many people benefit from this approach to wellbeing.

On a personal level Mary found that Mindful Photography allowed the time to process thoughts and feelings in a positive way. She enjoys working to encourage people to share photos and thoughts if they want to, whilst building self-esteem and resilience, therefore reducing social isolation within communities, which is needed more than ever after Covid and Lockdowns. Mindful Photography builds long term skills and is ongoing but not commital. Focus support people in learning new skills and enjoy helping them develop their own coping strategies for the future. It also promotes independence outside of working within groups.

Feedback and support continue even after the workshops are completed, as small groups bond over time and enjoy sharing work in closed online forums. This builds motivation to continue using Mindful Photography as a tool, continuing to build confidence independently but with with the support and understanding of other participants

What Camera shall I use?

There is a saying: 'the best camera is the one you have on you'. Our eyes are our cameras, we are locking in images moment by moment but to hone in on the subject or content you want to frame/record- any camera will do. Mary will guide you on composition, lighting etc but if you have a smartphone or camera then you are ready to try Mindful Photography!

Whether you want to learn more about the principles of Mindful Photography; slowing down and taking more notice of your surroundings, share the process with your friends and family or you just want to meet new people and connect with your environment, these courses can help.

Photos from the Workshops to view....

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