- Play Hard
- 9th Apr 2025
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- 0 minute
Fresh air, free time and a better mood: Mindful photo walks are having a moment
By Sarah Johnson
Ever feel like you’re always on the go, and slowing down isn’t on your to-do list?
Well, what if I told you that a piece of mindfulness magic might already be in your hands – or rather, in your bag? As a personal branding photographer who’s pretty much obsessed with capturing the perfect moments, I’ve discovered that photography is my favourite way to chill out and get mindful.
Setting the scene
So, how do you start a mindful photography session? First, find your spot. It’s not just about gorgeous sunsets or funky backdrops (though those are great, too); it’s about finding a place where you can just be. When I’m adjusting my camera settings and picking the right lens, I’m also clearing my head of all the day’s clutter. It’s like stepping into a quiet room after a noisy day. This preparation isn’t just about the technical setup – it’s about getting into a mental state where the outside noise fades away, and you’re left with just your senses and the scene in front of you. Even just with your mobile phone, take a moment to clean your lens, compose the photograph and find the right angle.
The art of seeing
Photography has totally changed the way I look at the world. It’s not about snapping a thousand pics for a few good ones. It’s about really seeing – noticing how the light plays on someone’s face or how the wind makes the leaves dance. This way of seeing things is what mindfulness is all about – soaking up the simplicity of the moment and finding the calm in the commonplace. It’s about appreciating the little things like the way morning dew sits on a spider web or the smile of a stranger passing by.
Capturing the moment
Taking a photo is my kind of meditation. Every time I line up a shot and press the shutter, it’s like everything comes into focus, literally and figuratively. It’s about being here, right now, and capturing that shot in one click. This focus is super calming and way more fun than sitting still and trying to clear your mind. The click of the camera is a reminder to breathe and be present, capturing not just a photo but a moment of real, raw life.
The power of patience
One big lesson we get from photography is that patience always pays off. It’s about waiting for that perfect moment when everything lines up just right. That kind of patience – waiting without fussing – is something we can all use a little more of, whether we’re behind the camera or just living our lives. It teaches us to slow down and wait for the right moment rather than forcing things to happen.
Reflection through the lens
After I pack up and head home, I love looking through my shots. But it’s not just about checking out what worked and what didn’t. Each photo brings back how I felt in that moment, what caught my eye, or what made me smile. This kind of reflection is a simple way to connect the dots between what I see and what I feel. It’s a personal debrief where I get to relive and understand my experiences, seeing how far I’ve come and where I might go next.
Sharing the journey
And the best part? Sharing those snaps and the stories behind them. Each picture starts a new conversation, sparks a connection, or just gets a ‘wow’ from someone else. It turns my solo hobby into a shared adventure, spreading the joy of mindful moments. Through workshops and social media, I’ve connected with so many people who are now trying out mindful photography, each finding their own peace and perspective through the lens.
Mixing photography with mindfulness has been a game-changer for me, turning every shoot into a mini-retreat. It’s not just about the photos; it’s about feeling more tuned in and alive. This practice has taught me to appreciate the now, making each day richer, more colourful, and more mindful.
Why not give it a whirl? Grab your camera or your phone, take a leisurely walk, and see where the moment takes you. Snap some pics and share them. You might be surprised at how much fun being mindful can be. Dive into this creative journey and watch as your everyday moments transform into sources of joy and mindfulness.
Sarah has a free Facebook Group with a weekly theme for a prompt for photography projects, and a live stream every week to answer anyone’s questions.
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