Mindful Photography in Nature
A different way of being, looking and connecting with nature. With or without a camera.
Our Mindful Photography in Nature workshops explore the concepts of mindfulness and mindful photography for wellbeing. Together, we practise being present in nature, exploring different ways of looking and allowing details to appear to us.
Allowing ourselves to look differently
Mindfulness involves paying attention to our present experience with curiosity and without rushing to judge it. In these sessions, we explore what that can mean in practice, and how mindful photography can offer a creative way to approach it.
Rather than always searching for a subject, we experiment with letting our attention settle and noticing what comes into view. A shifting shadow, the texture of bark, a pattern in a leaf. There is room to explore how we look, as well as what we see.
We play with light, colour and texture, and enjoy the process together. There is no pressure to produce a perfect photograph or to feel a particular way.
What happens in a workshop?
Guided activities, creative exploration and time to practise in ways that work for you.
Exploring mindfulness and mindful photography
We introduce the concepts of mindfulness and mindful photography, exploring their relationship with wellbeing. Through discussion and practical activities, we consider attention, curiosity and how we respond to what we notice.
This is a chance to explore a different way of being in nature, with space to ask questions and try things out.
Practising with and without a camera
We begin with looking and experiencing. Simple prompts help us pause, explore our surroundings and allow things to catch our attention, without needing to capture them.
We also practise with camera phones or cameras, exploring how making an image can change our attention. You can take part in the mindfulness and looking activities without taking photographs.
Playing with light, textures and perspective
We explore light and shadow, colour, textures and patterns. Changing our position, taking a closer look or seeing a familiar detail from another angle can open up different possibilities.
There is space to experiment, follow your curiosity and discover what interests you.
Photography skills and creative support
Sessions are supported by an experienced photographer and artist from our team. Alongside the mindful activities, they can help you explore photography skills such as framing, composition and working with light, if that interests you.
No specialist equipment is required. A camera phone is enough, and previous experience is not needed.
Reflection and everyday practice
We make time to reflect on the experience and, if we want to, look at photographs together. Nobody is asked to share personal stories.
We explore ways to carry this practice into everyday life, whether on a woodland walk or spending time in a familiar green space.
In the woods and around Gower
We run sessions at Penllergare Woodlands and in and around Gower, shaping the activities around the group and setting.
We have also delivered adapted indoor sessions for people with mobility needs and residents in independent living accommodation. Nature can remain part of the experience through natural materials, photographs and activities suited to the space.
Making sessions accessible
We work with participants and community partners to understand what helps people take part. This includes mobility, sensory and confidence needs, the location and practical support with a phone or camera.
Contact us to discuss access needs, equipment or an adapted session for your group.
Workshops and partnership delivery
We offer standalone workshops and mindful photography activities within wider nature and wellbeing programmes. We work with partners to agree a format and setting that fit their community.
Session dates, places and funding vary. Contact us to ask about upcoming opportunities.
Interested in Mindful Photography in Nature?
Contact us to ask about upcoming workshops or explore a session for your community group.