One thing that I’ve noticed with nature or landscape photography is that it’s really hard to be depressed or in a sour mood when you are focusing on what you see through your camera lens. There is a reason people say, ‘Take time to smell the roses’. The same could be said of our sense of sight. Take time to focus on the good.
We can all get quite overwhelmed by the daily struggles and expectations in life. It’s challenging when you have a busy schedule and are working against the clock to complete tasks. Add to that trials or sickness and it becomes easy to head to the woe-is-me pit, which at times seems too deep to climb out of.
Focus On Your Blessings
Instead of getting burdened by the daily grind, the Bible tells us, in various ways, to count our blessings. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -think about such things”. That’s exactly what we need to do. Although there are plenty of ways to change our thinking to focus on the good, a great way to put it into action is with a camera.
When you put your eye to the camera, you are forced to see what the lens is focused on. With that comes a deep appreciation and awe for what you take in. God’s creation is amazing! It can be easy to look past all of that beauty or take it for granted, even when you are fully immersed in it, because your mind is too busy. Going on a photography excursion is a perfect way to slow the mind down and enjoy the beauty all around you.
How can you not see God’s power and majesty when you gaze upon the mountains or the ocean? Or, marvel at his intricate designs of all the birds and animals. These are blessings to be appreciated.
Over the years, I have developed such a deep appreciation for the beauty around me. Even in unlikely places, I can find something artistic to focus on.
An old boat full of tools needed for lobster trapping intrigues me and I see the charm and story that they tell. Of course, when you see a scene like this, you can be thankful that someone’s hard work affords you a nice lobster dinner at a fine restaurant! However, it can also create a longing for a simpler life where you can spend a day on the water instead of an office or factory. Whatever emotion presents itself, there is a blessing to be thankful for and appreciate.
Focusing on what’s around you also takes your mind off yourself and your problems. Quite often, especially with landscape photography, your focus goes not only to your surroundings but ultimately to the maker Himself. We see how tiny we are in this vast world and it’s comforting to know that we are cared and provided for by such an amazing God.
