Capturing Calm: A Mindful Photography Podcast Ellie Macdonald

Welcome to another episode of our exploration into mindful photography. Today, I’m with Becky Cross, whose journey from capturing moments of joy to delving into the profound impacts of the environment on memory and identity offers a tale of discovery, healing, and artistic evolution.
You can find out more about Becky and her work on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/beckyrootsshootsphotography/
And on Substack:
https://substack.com/@rebeccacross1
Join the conversation and share your mindful photography experiences on Instagram with #capturingcalm.
For more insights and inspiration, follow me on Instagram or visit my Substack at www.capturingcalm.substack.com.


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Through my personal struggles with panic attacks and anxiety, I discovered mindful photography as a vital tool for managing anxiety, creating a connection with the present by capturing the little things on walks that I’d usually not notice.
The studies cited in this episode are:
* Effectiveness of Coloring Mandala Designs to Reduce Anxiety in Graduate Counseling Students
* Psychosocial and Biological Outcomes of Immersive, Mindfulness-Based Treks in Nature for Groups of Young Adults and Caregivers Affected by Cancer
* The mechanisms of nature-based therapy on depression, anxiety, stress, and life satisfaction
* Group Nature-Based Mindfulness Interventions: Nature-Based Mindfulness Training for College Students with Anxiety
For those eager to embark on their mindful photography journey, start with intentionality and curiosity. To truly integrate mindful photography into your life, consider these exercises:
* The Five Senses Exercise
* Gratitude Scavenger Hunt
* Colour Walk
If you'd like to join me on a daily mindfulness practice, check out the Mindfulness Association's free daily practices:
https://www.mindfulnessassociation.net/free-daily-online-mindfulness-meditation/
Join the conversation and share your mindful photography experiences on Instagram with #capturingcalm.
For more insights and inspiration, follow me on Instagram or visit my Substack at www.capturingcalm.substack.com.


Get full access to Capturing Calm at capturingcalm.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to a special edition of Capturing Calm. Today, I am thrilled to share an extraordinary conversation I had with Tracy Anderson, a remarkable woman whose story not only inspires but also sheds light on the profound impact photography can have on mental health.
Tracy is a therapeutic photographer based in Glasgow, dedicating her time to volunteering at charity Quarriers. Through her work, she helps others discover the positive effects of photography on mental well-being.
Tracy's journey into the world of photography was born out of a personal struggle with anxiety and depression, which intensified following the birth of her first child. Describing her experience as being trapped in "the never-ending darkness," Tracy faced numerous challenges, including adverse reactions to medication that led to self-harm and suicidal thoughts.
However, it was the act of stepping outside and eventually enrolling in a photography course that ignited a spark of hope and transformation in her life.
Despite facing renewed challenges after the birth of her second child, Tracy found solace and strength in photography once again, supported by Quarriers. This Scottish social care charity played a pivotal role in her recovery.
Driven by her own experiences and the support she received, Tracy is now passionately giving back to the community. She runs a Therapeutic Photography Group for new mothers facing mental health challenges, providing a safe and supportive space for healing and self-expression through the lens of a camera.
Tracy Anderson's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of photography as a therapeutic tool. Her journey from darkness to light, from isolation to community, exemplifies how creative expression can aid in navigating the complexities of mental health.
I hope Tracy's story inspires you as much as it has inspired me. To find more of her work, follow her Instagram here: @mental_photography_blog
And her blog is here: https://mentalphotographyblog.wordpress.com/
For more insights and inspiration, follow me on Instagram or visit my Substack at www.capturingcalm.substack.com.



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In this insightful episode, host Ellie Macdonald shares how photographers can capture emotions and feelings in their creative process.
Intention's Role: The episode emphasises setting a clear intention behind each photograph, guiding the narrative and emotional depth of the image.
Emotions vs. Feelings: Distinguishing between these, Ellie offers insights into how photographers can more profoundly explore and convey the human condition through their work.
Connect with Ellie: Follow @capturing.calm on Instagram and subscribe to her Substack for more insights into mindful photography.


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This week, I’m pleased to share a walking meditation that you can use before you set out for a mindful photography session.
So many of you have asked for this so that you can use it each time you head out. I hope you like it.


If you’d like to hear more mindful meditation practices, sign up for a paid subscription, and you’ll get access to lots more over the coming weeks.
Find me online on Instagram: @capturing.calm, or on Substack: www.capturingcalm.substack.com.




Get full access to Capturing Calm at capturingcalm.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, I wanted to share with you seven great ways you can use your camera for mindful photography.
Therapeutic photography has been found to have numerous benefits for mental health and in helping people with mental health issues. It offers a creative outlet for people to express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences, providing a form of catharsis and self-reflection.
Here are seven easy therapeutic photography techniques you can try this week:
1. Self-Portraits: Explore your identity and emotions.
2. A Day in Your Life: Find beauty in everyday moments.
3. Observe Nature: Connect with nature's calming influence.
4. Daily Theme: Focus your attention with a daily photo theme.
5. Capture Joyful Moments: Embrace the present with each click.
6. Photo Series: Tell a story through a subject's evolution.
7. Weekly Assignment: Challenge yourself to see the world differently.
For some inspiration, take a look at this wonderful Instagram account following a tree and field throughout the seasons:
https://www.instagram.com/onetreefieldsg/
If you enjoyed today's discussion, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Connect with me on social media and share your mindful photography moments using the hashtag #capturingcalm.
Stay mindful, stay creative, and remember that every photograph can be a window to inner peace.


Get full access to Capturing Calm at capturingcalm.substack.com/subscribe