What does it mean to be mindful? How will mindfulness help make better images? These are valid questions and in my opinion mindfulness can take your photography to the next level. Mindfulness is a technique most famously used by Buddhist monks. The concept is simple but the practice is anything but easy. In a nutshell mindfulness is defined as the trait of staying aware of (paying close attention to) your responsibilities. The sights, smells, feeling, taste, and sounds of our surroundings are often taken for granted.
How do we incorporate this into our photography? When you reach a location, take a few moments to notice the smells, sights, feelings. Don’t generalize these feelings, be specific! If your mind wanders, and it will, bring it back to the moment. This will help you notice things you may have not noticed before. It will help add emotion to your images. It will help tell your story and how you interpret the scene. Try it out and let me know how it worked for you.
This weeks post image was taken at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. I spent several minutes examining the scene. I had the image in my minds eye and all I had to do is wait for the action to happen. The final result is what you see below.
5D III 16-35mm at 16mm f22 @ 1/6th sec ISO 50
I absolutely agree! When you are out taking photos, you become much more aware. In that awareness you are mindful of all the details of everything you see. It is very meditative.
Very well said Ashley! Thanks for sharing your experience!