If you’re looking for a simple way to reconnect with yourself and the world around you, try a mindful photo walk!
Life moves fast these days and we could all use a few more well-being tools to help us stay calm and grounded. You know, something enjoyable that provides a mini-getaway for the brain & body.
But, have you ever considered using your camera as a way to stay grounded in the present?
Indeed, a mindful photo walk is a wonderful way be present through the medium of photography.
It’s an enjoyable way to bring your attention to the present moment, experience awe, & give your stressed-out brain a break. All you need is a smartphone or camera, a few minutes, and presto… you have yourself a simple tool for better well-being.
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As an enthusiastic wellness advocate and travel coach, I think mindful photo walks hit the sweet spot for a self-care practice.
They incorporate multiple elements of well-being, you can do it just about anywhere and it involves photography. Which is a hobby so many of us love!
Fancy a go? Let’s dive in!
What is Mindful Photography?
Mindfulness is about slowing down and using your senses to be in the present moment.
It can be brought to any daily activity and mindful photography is about incorporating mindfulness into the medium of photography.
Think of it as an approach that aligns more with being present for the process, than worrying about the technical aspects of photography or being set on a certain outcome.
Mindful photo walks are something I’ve been doing for years. Except, well… I never called them that, until recently.
I love wandering with my camera, so photography is often on my travel agenda. Over time, these walks have become an essential self-care tool, simply born out of practice.
In some ways it was intentional. As a photography lover, photo walks are an easy way to find my happy place.
In addition, it suits my wellness travel style by keeping me active.
Yet, as the mindfulness movement grew and I learned more about myself, it became clear there was more to these walks than met the eye.
Taking a deep dive into photography as a tool for self-care, well-being, & personal growth, I learned that therapeutic photography was something that could be a part of anyone’s daily journey.
The Benefits of a Mindful Photo Walk
A mindful photo walk combines three basic elements: walking, mindfulness and photography. Making it an ideal way to tend to your mental & physical health. It also allows to to tap into your creativity and embrace the novelty of being somewhere new, which is engaging and fun!
Walking is great for the mind & body. Mindfulness keeps you engaged with the moment. And photography is an ideal way to experience flow, an awesome natural high!
It’s also worthy to note that studies show mindful photography can lead to increased meaning, appreciation and happiness. Sweetening the deal even more.
People often ask me about mindful photography. As an educator & coach, I enthusiastically encourage everyone to explore it for themselves, to see how it resonates with them.
So, in this post I want to share a simple 5 step process for taking a mindful photo walk.
That way, you can take it with you on your next adventure and explore for yourself.
What You Need for a Mindful Photo Walk
Here’s all you need for a walk:
- A camera, any camera. Even a phone camera will do. But, take the camera you are most comfortable with, that way you don’t get caught up in worrying about settings. And opt for just one lens, it helps you to stay more focused on the experience.
- Minimize Distractions: If you are shooting with your cell phone or even have one with you, set it to airplane mode. That way you won’t get distracted or interrupted and you can relax into your flow.
- Pack Light: Only bring what you will need for the time and place you’ve chosen. It makes it that much easier to be present. You can even keep a go-to bag ready with your essentials.
- You, yourself and an open mind: You may have a general route in mind, or you may choose to wander without agenda. Maybe you bring some company or go solo. Either way, just allow the process unfold and definitely let the photos find you.
Where to Take a Mindful Walk
So, where is the perfect place for a photo walk? Honestly, anywhere you want!
Spending time in nature is a good choice as it naturally elevates well-being.
Yet, you can take a mindful photo walk anywhere. Even in a big city like London or Rome, mindfulness is within reach.
I take them anywhere and everywhere I roam, and in all four seasons…with my camera or smartphone. Mindful photo walks are a fundamental part of my wellness travel lifestyle.
Keep in mind that there is no set time for taking a mindful photo walk, so you can choose a time and place that interests you and works for your schedule.
You can choose a general route, explore a hiking trail or go where the wind blows, it’s up to you.
Just remember, even a 5 minute walk is enough to clear your head and bring you joy!
Step 1: Anchor Yourself with Stillness
It’s good to sync the mind and body before you begin your photo walk. So start by taking a few minutes of quiet time to anchor yourself in the moment.
Take a few deep breaths or give thanks for the opportunity to explore and be present with your experiences. Just relax and be with the beauty of the world.
Life is a gift, make it count.
Step 2: Engage Your Senses
Engaging your senses is the best way to get out of your head and be present in the moment.
Start by observing…look and then look again.
What do you see, hear or feel? Climb high or sink down low to change your perspective and get a different view. Above all, let your intuition guide you.
While mindful photography is visually driven, the experience is enhanced by using your other senses. So, just think of using your senses as the path to mindfulness.
Step 3: Wander with Curiosity
Creativity helps us on our journey of self-discovery and well-being, so follow your curiosity and see where it leads!
These cows in The Cotswolds seemed more curious about me than I was about them!
Being curious can lead to creativity. Which then leads to flow, an enjoyable state where we are more mindful and relaxed.
Curiosity is also strongly associated with life satisfaction and meaning. Both of which are tied into well-being.
So, find your story, the one that is waiting to be told.
Step 4: Be Intentional
Capture your moments with intention.
Digital photography gives you lots of room to play and experiment. Yet, you don’t want to get caught up on autopilot mode and take hundreds of photographs.
Take a moment and frame your shot.
At this point, I often will take a slow breathe before press the button. It helps me better sink into the experience and savor the moment.
In addition, I wait and review the photos later.
Why you ask? It helps me to stay better connected with the moment and then I get to really enjoy reminiscing later. But, experiment and see what works for you.
Step 5: Reflect & Journal
Mindful activities give your brain the space to discover itself.
When you’re done, notice how you feel. Write about your experiences and consider what you enjoyed about the process.
Personally, I like to combine this part with my favorite morning self-care ritual, cappuccino!
In the end, the more we practice mindfulness, the more self-aware we become. Ultimately, this awareness contributes to well-being by leading us to be more confident & proactive in our lives.
The Bonus Step: Joyfully Share
Photography is inspiring.
So share your photos and get that goodness into the world.
This photo below is a favorite capture of mine from a trip to Oxford. I love using my LensBaby Velvet for mindful photo walks, the soft glowing effect brings the awe of nature to life.
Looking for more insights about what mindful photo walks might look like on the road? Try these articles:
- Winter in Warsaw: A Mindful Photo Walk
- A Mindful Photo Walk of Dublin’s Colorful Doors
- Richmond Park in January: A Mindful Photo Walk
So, are you ready to give mindful photography a whirl?
Wherever you roam, may you be reenergized and refreshed by the world around you!
until the next time…
…live well-travel well-be well
More Inspiration…
- 100 Iconic Things to Photograph in London
- A Mindful Oxford Day Trip: Me, My Camera, & No Agenda
- 7 Mindful Photography Locations in Glasgow
- The Secrets to Being Mindfully Present in Travel
- Mindful Travel in Italy: 7 Ways to Be Present & Find Bliss
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