Photo: Ruth Davey
Look Again’s mindful photography methodology
The Look Again process uses an experiential, low-tech, and accessible process. It uses tried and tested content whilst remaining flexible and adaptable to suit the needs of participants and each context and setting. It is suitable for almost everyone, whatever their background, age or ability. All people need is a smartphone or camera.
The Look Again methodology uses a combination of the following:
“Mindful photography is using our sight and the lens of a camera or smartphone as an anchor to help us become more consciously aware of the present moment. It is experiencing the process of creating photographs in a non-judgmental, compassionate way.”
Slowing down and having time for quiet and stillness.
Connecting with nature.
The Five Ways to Wellbeing: Be active, Connect, Keep learning, Give, Take notice (Developed by the New Economics Foundation).
Secular mindfulness practices, focusing on the key attitudes of mindfulness: the beginners mind, curiosity, gratitude, acceptance, patience, trust, non judging, compassion, non striving, letting go.
The Look Again framework: the ‘7Cs+’, the ‘7Is’ and the ‘7Hs’
Creative, therapeutic, and participatory approaches to photography.
Visualisation and visual story telling techniques.
An exploration of themes that encourage creativity and insight.
The duty of care to ourselves, others and the planet.
Conversation, feedback, reflection, and action.
Preparing to create a photo
Find a quiet place.
Be still and quiet for a few minutes.
You may want to close your eyes or simply lower your gaze and focus on the floor. This will help to still your mind and get into a more creative headspace.
Use what you see as an opportunity to be curious, to take notice of your surroundings, wherever you are. Try to imagine you are seeing it all for the very first time, as a young child might.
Use your eyes to become more appreciative and grateful for what you have.
Creating your photo
Slow down, breathe, look and look again.
Take your time to look and really see. There is no rush.
Enjoy the process of allowing yourself to be in the moment.
Decide what you’d like in the frame and what you choose to leave out.
Breathe again…
When you are ready consciously create your photo. This is the opposite of snapping away.
Note: Keep things simple - this is not about the tech!
“I have learnt that there is hope, there is more than you can see, to calm down and not let my head get fuzzy and clouded.”
— Paddy Doyle