How Does Mindful Photography Differ From Regular Photography?
In today's world, where distractions are ever-present, it's easy to miss out on the beauty of the present moment. Traditional photography often focuses on capturing visually appealing images, while mindful photography goes beyond aesthetics to embrace the moment fully. Here, we'll explore the differences between mindful photography and regular photography, and how this practice can bring inner peace through our most powerful sense.
1) Focus on Body and Surroundings
Mindful photography begins with grounding yourself. Turn your smartphone into a camera by switching to airplane mode to avoid distractions. Place your hand on your heart, take three deep belly breaths, and become aware of your surroundings. This step helps you transition from the thinking state to a mindful state, where you can observe your environment with a fresh perspective.
Just take a moment to pause. Pat your heart in a supportive way. Feel your body sensations. We’re going to stay in touch with those through the practice.
Imagine you’re standing in a bustling park. Your kids are playing, dogs are running around, and the sun is shining. Instead of being lost in thoughts about your to-do list, you start focusing on the present. You feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, hear the laughter of the children, and see the vibrant colors of the flowers. This is a moment you want to capture.
What’s the Difference?
Photographing Mindfully
Creating for Connection
Focused on 5 Senses
Lost in Creation
Present
Aware
Photographing Non-Mindfully
Creating for Likes
Detached from Reality
Lost in Thought
Hurried
Asleep
2) Capture the Present Moment
Take a wide shot of the park they are in. Then get in there with them, start moving, and shoot some zany close-ups of the little rascals horsing around. Become a kid right there with them.
The essence of mindful photography is not about taking perfect photos but about capturing the present moment. Think about how kids approach photography. They don't worry about the perfect shot; they capture what they find interesting and move on. This childlike wonder is what mindful photography is all about.
Imagine a child taking photos of things they are grateful for—completely absorbed in the process without worrying about perfection. This is the heart of mindful photography. As you capture images, focus on what attracts you, what feels good, and let your body sensations guide you.
Remember when you were a child at the beach? The feeling of sand between your toes, the sound of waves crashing, and the smell of salt in the air? When you take a photo mindfully, you capture not just the visual aspect but the entire experience. Your photos become a window into that moment, full of life and presence. It’s a moment void of burdens.
Editing Mindfully
You’re not editing to “get” better at photography or to “get” likes. You lack nothing. So there’s nothing to “get.” You are editing for the same reason as you shoot: to capture the present moment. Get absorbed in the photos you are editing.
As judgment and fear creep in, keep noting your level of peace and coming back to the editing at hand. Marvel at your creative gift of capturing the now. When you use your camera as an instrument of gratitude, whatever you create is a masterpiece. Pronounce your favorite few shots “finished!” and give thanks for your creative gifts. This will help affirm the healing effects of exercising your talents.
Now, it’s time to get ruthless. Delete the remaining photos. That’s right. Gone for good. Go to your “Deleted” folder and delete those photos permanently. You are aiming to keep a few of the most moment-capturing shots that you will preserve for future reminders of peace presence. This is part of “wanting what we have” versus “having what we want.” From here forward, your photo library is going to look more like a pristine, curated gallery and less like a hoarder’s reality show.
Put your culled shots in a folder and name the folder something that’s meaningful to you.
Once again, take time to check your level of inner peace. Put your hand on your heart after you have made those hard decisions to tidy up. What does it feel like to declutter? How is your level of inner peace now?
Don’t let go of your heart just yet. It’s getting ready to guide you on your next assignment. It’s time to shine your beautiful light and to feel the deep, lasting presence found in blessing others with your gifts.
3) Shine Your Light on Someone
Imagine becoming familiar with your greatest gifts and using them to bless others. We are designed to help one another. Putting a smile on the cashier’s face is service. Spending time with mom is service. Helping an alcoholic find a meeting is service.
Service is love. Love puts you in the highest state of mindfulness. Love is what you are designed to do.
The third step of shining our light on someone creates the loving presence that each of us so desperately wants. This is where we truly bless someone with what we’ve created, without fishing for compliments.
Sharing your mindful photos is a way to extend the peace and presence you experienced to others. Send a photo to a loved one with a heartfelt message, or use your images to encourage and uplift someone. This act of sharing connects you with others and reinforces the positive impact of mindful photography.
Imagine you’ve taken a beautiful photo of a sunrise. You felt at peace while capturing it, and now you want to share that peace. You send the photo to a friend who’s having a tough time, with a message that says, “Thinking of you this morning. May this sunrise bring you a little peace today.” Your friend feels a bit of that tranquility you experienced. That’s the power of shining your light.
The Essence of Photography Therapy
Mindful photography transforms your smartphone into a tool for mindfulness and inner peace. It’s not about the fancy equipment or the perfect shot. It’s about being present, connecting with the moment, and sharing that connection with others.
Consider the journey of taking a photo from start to finish. You begin by focusing on your surroundings, becoming fully aware of your senses. You capture the moment, not for likes or approval, but for the sheer joy of being present. Finally, you share that moment, spreading a little light and peace to others. This is the essence of photography therapy.
The Impact of Mindful Photography on Mental Health
Mindful photography has a profound impact on mental health. By focusing on the present moment and engaging our senses, we can break free from the cycle of negative thoughts and find a sense of calm and clarity.
During my battle with depression, mindful photography was a lifeline. It gave me a way to step out of my mind and into the world, to see beauty where I once saw only darkness. The act of capturing moments of peace and joy helped me heal and find a new perspective on life.
Practical Tips for Mindful Photography
Start Small: Begin with short, mindful photography sessions. Even five minutes can make a difference.
Focus on the Process: Don’t worry about the outcome. Enjoy the act of taking photos and being present.
Use Your Senses: Engage all your senses as you take photos. Notice what you see, hear, smell, and feel.
Share Your Photos: Share your mindful photos with others. It’s a way to spread joy and connect with people.
Mindful photography is more than just taking photos; it’s a way to experience life fully and find peace in the present moment.
By focusing on your surroundings, capturing the essence of the moment, and sharing your light with others, you can transform your photography practice into a powerful tool for mindfulness and mental health.
For more practices and insights, grab a copy of The Mindful Photography Field Guide: 15 Smartphone Photography Practices for Inner Peace. Visit JoeVanWyk.com and MindfulPhotography.org for vlogs, coaching, and more resources on mindful photography.
Start your mindful photography journey today.
Transform your smartphone into a tool for inner peace and connection. Embrace the present moment and share your light with the world.
Blessings,
Joe
PS:
If you found this post helpful, you'll love my book, The Mindful Photography Field Guide: 15 Smartphone Photography Practices for Inner Peace. It’s packed with practical tips and inspiring stories. Ready to dive deeper? I also offer one-on-one coaching to help you master mindfulness through photography. Reach out to me via my contact form. Let's connect and transform your journey together!
