The Benefits of Photography for Mind and Soul

branchoutretreats
Jan 14
4 min read

Updated: Jan 14

From left to right, an old Homestead in the Golden Triangle District outside of Newstead. My beloved fifteen-year-old Goldfish. An ancient Peppercorn Tree that has told a thousand tales.

PASSION

I don't recall how old I was when photography became my happy place. Capturing the beguiling, twisted arms of the Ghost Gum in mum's backyard, or the haunting images of the blue-stone stables in Glenormiston South, were amongst my favourite things to shoot. Every family Christmas gathering I'd cherish the moments that I would capture the cousin's and aunt's, along with mum and nanna. Those members of the family who hated getting their photograph taken would groan, 'Oh no, here comes Mickey and her bloody camera'!

Of course, over the years everyone was grateful I flittered about with my bloody camera, as many of our treasured family members are no longer with us. Thank goodness for the miracle of capturing an image that can last forever with the right care.

From individuals to the natural world and its creatures. A paddock lined with majestic trees to a freshly blossomed flower offering its nectar to a Bee. When I come across an ancient structure, I feel lucky to witness its history and imagine the people from the past who once walked in its shadows. Every element has a story to tell and to capture that and share with loved ones is a treasure.

Left to right, Volcanic rock used as dry stone walls at Mount Noorat, in Noorat near Lover's Lane. The Boathouse in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, along with the original castles tower that overlooks the Loch.

How Photography can Sharpen our Attention to Nature

When I'm in nature, whether it's my lively, lush garden, I take my time to appreciate the beauty surrounding me. This experience alone fills me with a deep gratitude for the world I observe. Nature holds no flaws—only pure, unrefined beauty. The intricate patterns of leaves, the way light transforms a puddle into a reflective mirror, and the graceful movements of birds, butterflies, and Bees.

Heightened observation: Photography trains our eyes to see subtle colours, textures, and shapes. I especially love being at the Frankston foreshore, relaxing with the vibe as the waves roll and gather under the pier. The sunlight kissing the horizon and brightening space across the water.
Slowing down: I often daydream when exploring the bush, and appreciate the glorious scent of eucalyptus, especially after the rain. Listening to the mournful cry of a Black Cockatoo, or the cheerful chitter of the Fairy-Wrens fills my soul-cup. Observing the beauty around us, being mindful of the little things; a patch of bright native flowers. A twisted tree trunk with an observant owl sitting quietly above us. An Echidna burrowing off to the side of the overgrown path. Little moments that can fill our human spirit with joy if we just allow ourselves a mindful moment.
Deeper connection: Closely observing nature enhances our appreciation and respect for the environment. This connection to Mother Earth, along with the urge to nurture and safeguard this delicate ecosystem, engages our senses, fostering admiration and awakening our inherent love for nature and life. It reminds us that we are part of a larger system, which helps reduce stress, encourages positive emotions, and cultivates a desire to protect our beloved planet.

From left to right. Cape Shank Light House. The Loddon River running through the Golden Triangle and the Frankston Pier.

Photography as a Mindfulness Practice

My husband, Jade, and I have been bemused at the quirky habits we've picked up as we've aged together. We've always been the mindful type, but now we practically launch ourselves out the back door like we're on a scene of bird-watching mission impossible, every time a flock of Corellas swoops by, or a Currawong sings. We've turned into 'those' bird-loving folks who get all Zen and grateful at the mere sound of a chirp. Who knew mindfulness came with feathers?

Embracing the present allows our hearts to fully savor these mindful moments, sometimes outshining the impulse to capture an image. Practicing mindfulness is all about letting ourselves truly feel in the moment. Observing and nurturing.

From left to right, a tea leaf reading promotional shot. Roadside daisies that frame St Augustine's Anglican church in Inglewood. My poppy nurturing the Bees in my backyard.
I truly love preparing for a shoot to capture the spirit of Branch Out Retreats, including heartfelt promotional images. A tea leaf reading with fragrant Lady Grey Tea, and fresh poppies from the garden to remind me that my beloved Mama in Heaven is always close to me.
From left to right, a perfect raindrop nestled in a nasturtium leaf. A pylon with moss, under the Frankston pier. An ancient oak at the Anglican Community of the Holly Name in Cheltenham.
One morning after rain fall, I was heading out to my writing studio through the garden when I noticed the nasturtium cradling little spheres of rain drops. Marveling at the gentle gift that is Mother Earth, I was in awe and needed to capture the delicate droplets that immediately made me feel present and calm.

Mindfulness is about being fully engaged in the present, and nature photography naturally encourages this state of mind. Creating a photograph, being immersed in a moment with nature diverts our attention from worries or distractions, subtly boosting our wellbeing.

Reduces stress: Focusing on the scene in front of us calms the mind.
Encourages patience: Waiting for the right moment, like a bird landing, or the sun breaking through clouds, or trying to capture that next flash of lightening teaches patience.
Promotes gratitude: Capturing beauty reminds us of the world’s wonders.

From left to right, Frodo our adorable Chihuahua. A view from a cottage window in Westport, Ireland. Our twelve-year-old Hakuna, AKA Konnie, our darling Ragdoll cross Siamese.

Similar to other creative pursuits, photography enables us to fully engage with a moment, bringing a sense of peace. It allows us to be thrilled, astonished, and captivated by the world surrounding us, including everything in our own surroundings, regardless of its scale.
Branch Out Retreats eagerly anticipates capturing magic moments, smiles, connections, and memories for our cherished retreat guests, allowing them to take home and treasure the journey that nourishes souls and honours friendships formed.