Who is in Control? (Hint: It ain’t you or me.)

Do you think this beat up Blue Spruce clinging to a dry creek bank is fretting about the next flood?

Three Mindful Photography Practices that Remind Us: God is in Control

In case you haven’t noticed, there is a wee bit of uncertainty in the air. Over the upcoming days and weeks, when our thoughts spiral into fear and judgment, we possess the power to refocus on God’s presence and peace. Through mindful photography, we can return our attention to God’s sovereignty, drawing strength and assurance from His love.

1. Focus: Trusting That Our Story Is Already Written

Proclaim this life-altering verse from Psalm 139:

God, you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Mindful smartphone photography begins with focus—intentionally grounding ourselves in the present moment. When we take a mindful photo, we’re not only framing the image but also affirming that God has already framed our lives. He knows our path in full detail, and every aspect of who we are is known and loved. Before you take your next photo, pause and remember that you’re seen, known, and loved by the One who holds all things in His hands.

Go figure. This simple video is taking off on my YouTube channel. No commentary; just me walking up to a lonely aspen tree in fall.

2. Capture: Finding Peace in Nature’s Rhythm

Walking in nature, we see how creation follows its natural rhythm without our intervention. Nature’s unstoppable cycles—like the changing seasons or rising sun—reflect God’s sovereignty and bring us peace. On your next walk, take your smartphone along, switch it to airplane mode, and capture moments that reflect this natural peace, whether it’s the gentle curve of a fallen leaf or the grandeur of a mountain sunset. Seek out shots that represent God’s perfect timing.

Mindful photography in nature reminds us that life, too, has a rhythm we cannot control. Just as nature’s rhythms are governed by God’s hand, our lives are as well. In the stillness of a captured moment, let yourself sink into the knowledge that the God who cares for creation cares for you even more deeply. By photographing moments that reflect this peace, we become witnesses to the rhythm and timing of God’s love.

3. Shine: Casting Out Fear with Love

“Perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18). As we reflect on God as that perfect love, we remember that His love is more powerful than any fear. When we capture light in our photos, it serves as a reminder of God’s light shining into our darkest fears. Sharing a photo or kind word becomes a way to pass on God’s love and offer hope to others.

Through mindful photography, we let our light shine by spreading His peace in a world that’s often desperate for genuine connection and true love. When we share a photo or even a moment of encouragement, we’re participating in the kind of love that casts out fear and replaces it with peace. It’s through these simple acts of sharing that we reflect God’s presence to others.

Takeaway: Embracing God’s Presence Through Mindful Photography

During times of uncertainty, we’re invited to center ourselves in God’s love rather than getting lost in fear. Mindful smartphone photography provides a practical, spiritual way to refocus on His presence, reminding us of who truly holds our lives. When you next feel the urge to reach for your phone, let it become a tool for grounding yourself in God’s peace. Through focus, capture, and shine, may we each experience a little more calm, a little more hope, and a lot more of His love.

Shine Your Light,
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 mindful photography training to help you master skills that lead to inner peace. Reach out to me via my contact form and let’s connect.