Finding an activity that gets you into a ‘flow state’ (i.e. you are so engaged in what you are doing, time goes by unfeasibly quickly), and indulging in this activity regularly, is important for well-being. For me, photography is totally absorbing. I like taking photos of nature when I’m out on a walk in a local park or greenspace. Going out with the intention of taking photos helps you to take notice and be in the present. It gets you out of ruminating about the past or worrying about the future. You are simply in the here and now and enjoying your surroundings. You’re constantly looking for things of interest to take a photo of – the right subject or view, the right angle, good light, colour, texture and contrast…
Mobile phones have made photography more accessible than ever. Many of us walk around with a phone in our pocket with a remarkably good camera integrated into it. However, when did you last go out for a walk in a local park or greenspace with the sole intention of taking some photos? Why not give it a go?
Try to go out on a good day, preferably when the sun is out. Good light always lifts a picture. Find a greenspace or park that has a good variety of vegetation or habitats and interest. Just go for a wander round and see what you find. Don’t be afraid to experiment. You can always delete photos on your phone if they don’t work out. You might find you are drawn to taking landscapes, or photos of plants, or insects, or interesting textures in nature. Whatever it is, experiment with zooming right in to your subject or taking photos from different angles. Try looking up as well as down. Above all, enjoy giving it a go! You might find it gives you a whole different perspective on your local greenspace.
'This is a wonderful day. I have never seen this one before.' – Maya Angelou
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