Photography as Meditation
“All the technique in the world doesn’t compensate for the inability to notice”
Photography, often seen as just a means of capturing moments, can transform into a meditative practice, offering a unique way to connect with the present moment, our surroundings, and our inner selves. It’s something I practice daily and share on my Instagram page and in this Substack.
I’ve found complete peace through my practice. After struggling with anxiety for years, it was walking and taking photos which finally helped to settle my mind. I had little interest in the photography technique; I was more interested in finding scenes and objects which I found beautiful and capturing them to look at when I got home. I then found great pleasure in sharing my finds with others, to enjoy.
Photography as meditation begins with the art of seeing. My favourite photography quote comes from Elliott Erwitt, who passed away on November 29:
“All the technique in the world doesn’t compensate for the inability to notice”
Unlike casual snapping of pictures or searching for the “ideal shot”, mindful photography requires us to slow down and truly observe our environment. This practice is similar to mindfulness meditation, which focuses on being fully present and aware. By looking through the lens with intention, we can begin to notice details, patterns, and beauty in ordinary scenes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
As breathing is the cornerstone of meditation, inhaling, composing, focusing, and clicking the shutter can become meditative rhythms. You can create a calming and focused rhythm by aligning your breath with your actions. It helps us as photographers to focus on the moment, let go of distractions and fully immerse ourselves in the process.
Many photographers, myself included, find their meditative stride in nature. Nature photography not only provides stunning subjects but also offers an environment conducive to mindfulness. The natural world operates at a different, more serene pace. Spending time outdoors with a camera heightens my awareness of the subtle nuances of light, the intricacies of textures, and the symphony of sounds, from the rustle of leaves to the gentle flow of a stream.
Photography often involves moments of solitude, a vital component of meditation. In these moments of solitude, we can delve deeper into our thoughts and emotions. This introspective journey can lead to self-discovery and a deeper understanding of your worldview. The act of framing a shot and deciding what to include and leave out is comparable to focusing your mind in meditation, filtering out the noise to find clarity.
Photography also teaches the art of waiting in a world where instant gratification is the norm. Waiting for the perfect moment, for the subject to reveal itself, requires patience and perseverance, which are essential in photography and meditation. Taking a meaningful photograph that resonates with your vision and emotions is deeply rewarding. It's a moment of achievement when your mind, eyes, and heart align to capture a moment.
Photography as meditation is a journey towards mindfulness and inner peace. It's about finding joy in the process, being present in the moment, and connecting with the world in a profound way. Whether you're a professional photographer or someone with a smartphone camera, the path of photography as meditation is open to us all.
I would love to see your mindful photography. Please get in touch and share your work with me.
In peace and mindfulness,
Ellie xx