In this episode, Kim speaks with Kat Mahale about how photographing herself completely changed her life. The conversation explores the deep connection between photography and mental health, and the ongoing process of self-discovery, growth and healing through self-portraiture. The discussion also highlights the subjective nature of photography and the different ways joy and happiness can be expressed.

Connect with Kat:
Website: https://www.feelmorecreative.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feelmorecreative/
Kat's Book: https://www.feelmorecreative.org/whatnow

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Stephen Hatch; a contemplative teacher, thinker, photographer, and writer, as he shares his deep connection with nature and how photography can help us connect with the oneness of life.  He emphasises the importance of silence and beauty in nature and how it can inspire interior love and joy. Much of Stephen's inspiration came from from John Muir, leading him down a path of spirituality and healing in nature. He emphasises the need for a two-way relationship with the natural world and how it can provide support and healing during difficult times, as well as his photographic process, involving immersing himself in the landscape and creating images that make the viewer feel like they are inside nature.

Takeaways

• Nature has the power to inspire and connect us with the oneness of the world.
• Silence and beauty in nature can help cultivate a deep sense of awareness and transcendence.
• Disconnecting from technology and slowing down is essential to truly connect with nature.
• Contemplative photography allows the landscape to capture us and express itself through us. Contemplative photography involves listening to what the landscape wants to say through the camera and journaling.
• Nature provides support and healing during difficult times and can be a source of connection and inspiration.
• Immersing oneself in the landscape and capturing images that make the viewer feel inside nature can create a sense of depth and immersion.
• Men can benefit from finding their place in nature and developing a deeper sense of the beloved, which can help them connect with their emotions and find strength.
• Beauty is the harmony of contrasts, and nature can help us tap into our playful and emotional sides.

Connect with Stephen:
Website: https://www.resourcesforspiritualgrowth.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestephenhatchoutlook

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

In this conversation, Kim Grant speaks with Ellie MacDonald, as she shares her journey into mindful photography and how it has transformed her life. She discusses the practice of mindful photography, the benefits it offers, and the connection between mindfulness and photography. Ellie also talks about her studies in mindfulness and compassion, her new podcast called Capturing Calm, and her dreams for the future of mindful photography. The conversation explores the use of photography in therapy and the potential benefits of incorporating it into mindfulness practices. It also highlights the importance of exploring different styles of therapy and finding one that works for each individual.

Takeaways

• Mindful photography is a practice of paying attention on purpose in the present moment, non-judgmentally.
• Mindful photography can increase emotional well-being and self-compassion.
• Photography can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and exploring emotions.
• Mindful photography is accessible to everyone, regardless of technical knowledge or equipment.
• Sharing stories and experiences through photography can create connections and inspire others. Photography can be a valuable tool in therapy and mindfulness practices.
• There are various styles of therapy available, and it's important to find one that aligns with individual preferences and needs.
• Therapy and mindfulness can be taken outside of traditional settings and explored in imaginative ways.

Connect with Ellie:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capturing.calm/
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xIfd2XltkhMxqIuSUbpc4

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

In the first episode of season two, Kim Grant shares her excitement about recording more episodes for the podcast and discusses some changes she's making. She emphasises the importance of freedom and creativity in her work and announces that she will no longer have a set schedule for releasing episodes. Kim also talks about her decision to spend less time on social media and explains that she will no longer upload podcast episodes to YouTube. Instead, she encourages listeners to listen to the podcast while engaging in other activities. She also mentions that she plans to incorporate more variety into the podcast, including episodes where she speaks directly to the audience and explores certain themes in depth. Kim expresses her desire to offer self-inquiry and self-development opportunities through the podcast and the Photographic Connections community. She concludes by highlighting the importance of exploring the human experience through photography and expressing her excitement for the upcoming episodes.

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Cody Schultz, an American photographer with a love for black and white large format photography. Cody shares his journey into photography and how he was deeply inspired by other photographers, such as Ben Horne and Simon Baxter. He discusses his connection with nature and interest in black and white photography, as well as the challenges and rewards it brings. He also talks about his transition to large format photography and the impact it had on his creative process, before ending by emphasising the healing power of nature photography. 

Topics covered

• Photography can serve as a powerful creative outlet during difficult times.
• Connecting with nature can provide healing and inspiration for photographers.
• Black and white photography offers unique challenges and opportunities for creative expression.
• Transitioning to large format photography can slow down the creative process and deepen the connection with the subject matter.
• Reaching out to others and building genuine connections can lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations.
• Creating a community and sharing resources can enhance the photography experience for both creators and viewers.
• Nature has a profound healing power that should be appreciated and prioritized in photography.
• The future of photography should focus on authenticity, genuine connections, and a slower, more intentional approach.
• Taking risks and reaching out to others can lead to personal and professional growth in the photography world.

Connect with Cody
Website: codyschultz.com
Nature Photographers Network: naturephotographers.network

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

In this weeks episode, Kim Grant speaks with Sarah Marino. Sarah shares the concept of conservation photography and finding a mission-oriented focus in her work, as well as the challenges she faced in transitioning to photography as a career. She highlights the importance of teaching and bringing skills from her previous career into her photography business.  She also discusses the combination of writing and photography and the empowerment of self-publishing. Finally, Sarah shares her experience as the co-founder of the Nature First Photography Alliance, sharing the importance of responsible nature photography. She explains how the organisation developed seven principles to guide photographers in being more mindful of their impact on the environment. 

Topics Discussed

• How photography can be a meditative practice that helps to relieve stress and bring a sense of calm and joy.
• The benefits of bringing skills and experiences from our previous career with us when transitioning to photography as a profession.
• How finding a unique niche and being authentic in your work can help you stand out in the photography industry.
• The power of self-publishing and how it allows photographers to have more control over their work and reach their audience directly. 
• How we can practice nature photography responsibly with the seven principles created by Nature First alliance to help guide photographers in being mindful of their impact on the environment.
• How being curiosity and learning about the natural world can enhance our photography experience and generate a lifelong pursuit of exploration of creative practice.

Connection with Sarah:
Website: smallscenes.com
Instagram: instagram.com/sarahmarinophoto
YouTube: youtube.com/SarahMarinoPhoto

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Canadian photographer Randy Bullerwell. Randy shares how he was introduced to photography by a friend and further deepened his connection to it through mentors he met along the way, leading him to to learn contemplative and mindful ways to use his camera. Through this he has been able to find great release and a tool to channel his emotions through episodes of depression. Randy now shares his experience with photography to support and guide others.

Topics Covered

Journey into photography
Battling depression and alcohol addiction
Others influence in him taking up photography
Finding inspiration from others
Being a child at heart
Working with and learning from children
Discovering mindful photography
His love for running
His love for self-discovery and the world around him
Appreciating the small things in life
How photography and nature helps his mental health 17.30
Creating images in her minds eye
Becoming a more contemplative photographer
Learning how to do photography
Why he saves all of his images
How he feels when he’s doing nature photography
Celebrating the beauty of nature
Seeing his depression in his images
Creating exhibitions of his photos
His vision for the future of his photography work
The power of writing

Connect with Randy:
Website: https://www.randybullerwellphotography.com/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Orkney based photographer Nicki Gwynn-Jones. Nicki creates images from a place of flow and movement and shares how her love for wild swimming and dance helps her with creating her images. She also speaks about the joys of being free to create images in whatever way we wish and how she taps into the magic of the natural world. 

• Journey into photography 
• Sharing the beauty of the world through photography
• Her decision to move to Orkney 
• The joys of living in Orkney 
• Feeling into stillness in order to find images 
• Seeing myths and legends in the waves 
• The incredible light and magic in Orkney
• Her love for the light around the solstices 
• Photographing textures and patterns in nature 
• How she feels when photographing huge waves 
• Finding herself again
• Not being allowed to experiment as a child 
• Being pushed out of her comfort zone when she moved to Orkney 
• Putting flow and movement in her photos
• Seeing her bird photography like ballet 
• Her love for photographing arctic terns
• The importance of music in her life 
• Her love for creating etherial photos
• The freedom to express ourselves and create 
• Learning how to use her camera 
• The best advise she has ever received from a fellow photographer
• Learning to break the rules in photography
• Experimenting with her camera 
• Making the best out of what you have 
• Creating photos on her phone 
• Making photography accessible 
• Her love for open water swimming 
• Swimming relays in the English Channel

Connect with Nicki:
Website: https://nickigwynnjones.zenfolio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickigwynnjones/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicki.gwynnjones/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Scottish based scientist and photographer Matthew Whelan. Matt shares how he combines his science interest and his creative expression to help him understand life and channel his emotions following the loss of a close friend to suicide.

Topics Covered

Journey into photography
Using photography as a tool to express ourself
Losing a friend to suicide
Exploring our feelings through photography
Photography as therapy
Studying science as a foundation to understanding the world
How art allows for subjective experiences
Connecting our images with previous experiences
Experimenting with the camera
Poetry as a way to explore our internal world
Exploring ourselves and sharing with others
Art created from the heart
Having a sense of curiosity for the world
Being interested in spiritual development
Exploring our internal feelings and thoughts
Writing in a journal
Looking at our life objectively
Combining photography with other creative outlets
The power of writing
The never-ending discovery of creativity and healing 
The power of sharing our story with the world
Learning from other photographers through sharing
Finding genuine human connection
The future of AI and photography
Connecting with others through stories 

Connect with Matt:
Website: https://talesofperception.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewtwhelan/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Gill is a landscape photographer based in Surrey in the UK. She shares how her fond childhood memories of nature, photography and sailing inspired her to do what she is doing now. She also shares how she loves to bring feelings of calm into her images and why her local area speaks so deeply to her. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography 
• Her love for sailing
• Using photography as a means to escape 
• How her childhood inspired her adult ventures
• Her love for being in nature
• How using camera helps us see the world differently 7.30
• How photography helps with mental wellbeing 
• Using all our senses to create photographs 
• Her calm, romantic image style 
• Bringing feelings into our photography 
• Finding balance in our photography
• Running her photography business 
• Her love for the Suffolk coast
• Observing the world to improve our photography 17
• Running photography workshops
• Learning from others
• Doing sketchbook photowalks 21
• Getting to know our local areas 23 and 24
• Her love for showing others the places she loves to photograph 
• Self publishing photo books
• Her love for writing 
• Encouraging others to share their stories about Suffolk 
• The importance of connecting to the landscape
• Her interest in nature conservation 

Connect with Gill:
Website: https://gillmoon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gillmoonphotography/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with contemplative photographer Paul Sanders. Paul began his photography career as a news photographer. He shares how, despite achieving everything he'd dreamt of in his career, he was left feeling unfulfilled and battling mental and physical health issues. Since then he has been on a journey of self discovery, resulting in him adopting a more mindful and contemplative approach to his photography. Paul's words are very thought provoking and may change how you see and engage with your photography moving forwards. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Working in news photography 
• Feeling empty after getting his dream job
• Losing sight of who he was
• Trying to be a landscape photographer 
• Battling his mental health 
• Photographing what brings him beauty 
• Finding his soul through photography
• The exhaustion of not being yourself
• Developing genuine relationships
• The strength of being vulnerable
• The language around photography
• Photography and gratitude 
• Being still and listening to your heart
• The transience of our subjects 
• Collaborating with our subjects 
• Learning to give more 
• Getting to know ourselves 
• Talking and listening to our subjects 
• Practicing seeing 
• Letting go of attachment to material things
• The feeling you get when seeing your image in print

Connect with Paul
Website: https://www.discoverstill.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/discover_still/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/discoverstill/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Ruth Davey, the founder of Look Again Photography. Ruth is a mindful photography practitioner and trainer based in England. She shares how her own battles with mental health led her on a path to discovering mindfulness and photography. From this experience, she began to create her own photographic vision, leading her on to help and teach others ways of using their camera as a way to coping with theirs. She also shares her passion for making photography accessible to all and her love for spending time in solitude.  

Takeaways

• The Look Again training program offers a transformative experience for personal and professional growth in mindful photography.
• Solitude is essential for self-reflection, rest, and refuge, while loneliness can be reframed through photography and connection.
• Living authentically and slowing down are key to building resilience and taking action in creating the future we want.
• Community and collaboration are vital in the photography world to support each other and create positive change. Photography can be a powerful tool for self-expression and healing.
• Creating safe spaces for vulnerability allows individuals to explore their emotions and experiences through photography.
• Photography has a positive impact on mental health, providing a creative outlet and promoting self-reflection.
• Connecting with others through art can foster a sense of community and support.

Connect with Ruth:
Website: https://www.look-again.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lookagainmindfulphotography/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lookagainmindfulphotography

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

In this conversation, Kim Grant interviews Robert Clark about his personal journey into photography and how it helped him overcome alcohol addiction. They discuss the connection between yoga and photography, as well as the creation of Robert's website, Impressionography.org, which showcases ICM (Intentional Camera Movement) photography. Robert emphasises the importance of providing a platform for ICM artists to display their work without judgment.  Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of photography and the value of community in the creative process.

Takeaways

• Photography can be a transformative tool for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
• The practice of yoga can enhance the experience of photography, particularly in the realm of intentional camera movement.
• Creating a platform for artists to showcase their work without judgment is essential for fostering creativity and community.
• Open exhibitions provide opportunities for photographers to share their best work and connect with like-minded individuals.

Connect with Robert:
Website: https://impressionography.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impressionography_org/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Sarah is a self portrait and landscape photographer based in Canada, who is well known for photographing herself wearing a yellow dress in nature. She shares how her challenging upbringing lead her on a deep journey of self exploration and healing, which she now uses as a catalyst to share her life openly with the world online, through her photography and Youtube videos. She also shares the importance of mindset and genuine human connection, and what her dreams are for the future.

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Her love for editing and creating images in photoshop 
• The Yellow Dress story 
• Going through divorce
• Going to therapy and healing from our past
• Changing our mindset to progress forwards
• Openly sharing our journey with the world 
• Why she started her YouTube channel 
• How a message from Nigel Danson encouraged her to share her story 
• The power of encouragement 
• Sharing her life openly with the world 
• Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable 
• Sharing our story to help others 
• How photographing herself helped her through her healing
• Why yellow speaks to her so deeply 
• Building her photography brand 
• Working everyday towards her dreams 
• The emotional impact of colour 
• What her dresses resemble for her 
• Her interest in femininity and how this will play into her work in the future
• Having deep conversations with others
• Her dream to get married again 
• Making our pain into our purpose
• Her dream photo created in the centre of London 
• Helping other people though our careers
• Being clear in our intentions in life 
• Being constant in our dreams
• Being and entrepreneur

Connect with Sarah
Website: https://www.sarahlyndsayphotography.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC73iAchNebceqyF3I0qskiA
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sarahlyndsayphotography/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Christopher James Hall is a portrait, wedding and events photographer based in England who discovered photography during a period of homelessness. He found photography gave him connection allowing him to photograph other people and tell meaningful stories through him imagery.  He now uses his love for photography to help others who are experiencing challenging times and has set up his own foundation, where he works with various charities and organisations to do so. Christopher’s story is really inspiring, being a real example of how photography can not only change our lives, but the lives of those around us too. 

Takeaways

• Photography can be a powerful tool for storytelling and raising awareness of social issues.
• Breaking stereotypes and raising awareness of homelessness is important to challenge misconceptions.
• Photography can provide therapeutic benefits and help individuals express themselves.
• Inspiring and helping even one person can have a ripple effect and make a difference in their lives.
• Providing training and career paths can empower individuals to pursue their passions and create a better future.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

04:19
Starting a Photography Business

08:15
Unexpectedly Doing Wedding Photography

12:32
The Power of Photographing People

17:36
Breaking Stereotypes of Homelessness

23:14
The Christopher James Hall Foundation

28:07
The Impact of Photography

29:12
Photography as Therapy

33:09
Working with Charities and Organizations

37:02
Providing Training and Career Paths

38:27
Inspiring and Helping Others

39:25
Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Christopher
Website: https://christopherjameshall.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherjameshall/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopherjameshallphotography

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Jessy is an artistic photographer based in Adelaide, Australia, who creates beautiful artistic images using intentional camera movement. She finds creative photography very healing, offering her the chance to have some me time and develop a greater appreciation for the world that surrounds her. Intentional camera movement has offered her the freedom to express herself in a way that she’d never found with other creative hobbies or photographic styles. If you don’t already do ICM, Jess’s infectious enthusiasm may just inspire you to give it a go.

Topics Covered

• How moving to Australia inspired her to begin photography
• Discovering ICM photography
• Moving from landscape photography to ICM
• Her previous love for painting 
• Creating painterly images with her camera
• Her love for being in nature
• Making hundreds of images in one trip
• The unpredictability of ICM photography
• Growing up surrounded by nature in Bulgaria 
• How photography got her through her husband’s illness 
• Practicing mindfulness through photography 
• The healing power of photography
• How we are part of nature 
• How photography helped her learn to really see
• Why she prefers to photograph on her own
• How photography is like meditation
• Allowing time for me time in life
• The joys of having photography as a hobby 
• How healthy outdoor photography is 
• How she edits her images
• How photography gives her everything she needs
• How ICM allows creative expression 
• Being authentic in her work and expression 
• How ICM gave her freedom in her photography 
• Doing photography for ourselves 
• The fantasy side of ICM photography 
• Her love to be unique in her photography 

Connect with Jessy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessy_willemse/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Alister is a Scottish landscape photographer well known for his honest and open discussions about the artistic world of photography. Alister love to empower people to use their cameras to authentic express themselves and on this episode he shares his personal journey with us including his life changing trip to the Gobi Desert and how he now dedicates his working lifer to helping others tap into their creative self through photography. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Playing with a camera
• Travelling the world for work 
• Moving from play into professional photography
• Publishing his first E-Book
• Being an emotional and empathetic child 
• What travel can teach us about ourselves
• Being happy with our own photography
• What art can do for us
• His love for bird and bird photography
• Pointing your camera at stuff you think is cool
• Creating our own stories and relationships in the images we see
• A period of hating his photography
• The life changing trip to the Gobi Desert 
• His book Out of Darkness
• Suffering from depression and anxiety 
• Creating images using our emotions
• Being open to our full potential 
• How art can be passports for a better future for ourselves 
• Helping others find themselves through photography
• The power of collaboration 
• Leaving behind the generic form of photography 
• The importance of being authentic 
• The subjectivity of photography
• Using creativity to tap into who we are 
• The need for a release 

Connect with Alister
Website: https://expressive.photography/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alister_benn/

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Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Valerie is a nature photographer and video creator based in Melbourne, Australia. She shares how having an academic upbringing brought her to suppress her creativity for many years, and how reconnecting with this side of herself through photography, has allowed her to find a release from life's stresses and find some balance from her day job in the corporate world. She also shares why nature in particular is of great inspiration to her and why she decided to start sharing her vision and photography on YouTube. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography 
• Reevaluating her life following the passing of her beloved dog 
• The need for an outlet 
• Her love for nature photography 
• Having an academic upbringing 
• The stress of working in a coroporate environment 
• Finding balance and freedom in life  
• Tapping into her creative side    
• Her love for drawing and painting as a child 
• Her love for post-processing artistically 
• What photography gives her compared to painting 
• The societal belief around the starving artist 
• How photography has helped her mental wellbeing 
• The peace that comes with photography
• Being in the present moment 
• Her love for the natural world
• Benefits of being in nature 
• Modern day distractions 
• Physical and mental health benefits of being in nature 
• How photography helps her care more about nature
• Her interest in nature conservation 
• Starting her YouTube channel 
• Sharing her experiences with others through video

Connect with Valerie
Website: https://www.valeriemisa.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ValerieMisa1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemisaphotography/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Sean is a photographer, film maker and author best known for his YouTube videos and book “ The Meaning in the Making”. While Sean is a very skilled photographer technically, he also adds much depth and philosophical questions to his work, which makes he approach unique and loved by many. In this episode he shares how navigates life as an introvert, how we can be truly authentic In our creative work and the real value for taking time for ourselves. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography 
• Starting again at 30 years old
• His love for film making
• Beginning in food and product photography 
• Starting his YouTube channel 
• Using photography to speak about important things
• His desire to help people
• What brings him deep joy 
• Bringing meaning into his work
• Balancing the technicalities of photography with creativity 
• His love for making documentaries about others 
• The importance of getting different points of view 
• Life as an introvert
• Being authentic in our creative work
• The process of discovering ourselves 
• Choosing to do things his way
• The value of taking time out for ourselves
• Hosting retreats in Italy
• Creating offerings that are really aligned with us
• How walking and reading helps him ground
• Learning how to see the world 

Connect with Sean:
Website: https://www.seantucker.photography/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@seantuckd
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seantuck

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Mary Anne is an American wildlife photographer, best known for her bird images photographed at the Great Salt lake. She shares why birds are of particular interest to her, how she immerses herself in the scene when creating her images, as well as how she has developed empathy for her subjects. Mary Anne is on a mission to use her photography to raise awareness about the importance of the lake for migrating birds and how the changing climate is very quickly decreasing it's water level. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Her love for wildlife photography 
• Enjoying activities in nature
• Seeing ourselves in animals 
• Why she photographs birds particularly 
• Photographing what’s readily available to her
• Photographing the Great Salt Lake 
• Noticing climate change within the lake
• The importance of the Great Salt Lake for birds
• Immersing herself in the lake to make her images
• How therapeutic she finds it being at the lake
• The adventure of wildlife photography 
• Taking students out to the lake 
• Nothing makes her stop and observe more than photography 
• How photography gives her a greater appreciation for nature
• Her camera being being a tool to help her connect 
• Why she loves using a telephoto lens
• Photographing birds personalities 
• Having empathy with her subjects
• Why she wants to save the lake
• Local action to raise awareness about the lake 
• Why she never gets bored of photographing the same place
• The excitement of never knowing what you’ll see
• Learning to create videos to complement her photos 

Connect with Mary Anne:
Website: https://www.maryannekarren.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makarrenphotos/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Dan Ruffles onto the podcast. Dan is a landscape photographer based in Suffolk, England. He has a deep love and connection with his local area and finds beauty to photograph all around. We speak about how being by the coast and in solitude helps him so feel calm, how he combines his photography with different concepts by writing reflective pieces on his website journal and how using a film camera really enables him to slow down.

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Seeing details in the landscape 
• Why the Suffolk coast really speaks to him 
• Learning to read the landscape
• Getting his inspiration from big skies 
• How being at the coast and in solitude helps him to feel calm
• Immersing himself in the landscape
• His love for being alone and in his own thoughts 
• How mindfulness plays a role in his photography 
• How slowing down helps him to connect with the landscape
• His love for being out at sunrise
• Having a positive start to the day
• Seeing photography as a tool to getting out and exploring 
• Not putting to much pressure on ourselves 
• How his photography is a visual love letter to Suffolk 
• Writing a journal on his website - combining writing with his photography 
• Joining local photo walks 
• Thinking differently about what he’s photographing through concepts 
• Expanding how he views his surroundings
• Seeing photo opportunities everywhere
• Creating photos based on our emotions on the day
• The joys of photographing locally 
• Using abstract photography to find new opportunities 
• How using a film camera helps him to slow down 
• Winning the coastal category in the LPOTY 2023
• Having a personal connection to your images 

Connect with Dan:
Website: https://www.danielianphotography.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielianphotography

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Anna is a landscape photographer originally from the UK and now living in British Columbia. She shared how her background as a veterinarian and interest in ecological conservation has played a big role in influencing how she sees the natural world and creates her images. We also speak about the importance of slowing down, how we can invite questions through the photos create and how photography has helped her discover who she is.

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography 
• Her love for art
• Working as a veterinarian 
• Bringing ecological concepts into her imagery 
• Being self-reflection into her image creation 
• Her interest in conservation 
• Having a connection to nature as a child
• Why landscape photography speaks to her more than wildlife 
• Seeing the full ecological picture
• Scotland’s landscape and Peter Cairns
• Scotland’s ecology compared to Canada’s ecology 
• How photography helps us tell our stories
• Inviting questions though our photography 
• The role mindfulness plays in her photography 
• Slowing down being present to create her images
• Letting go and enjoying the moment 
• Observing what’s going on around us 
• Connecting in the moment without expectations 
• “Photography is the vehicle into the journey of being”
• Getting to know yourself 
• How photography has helped her discover who she is 
• How our childhood experiences and society shapes our outlook 
• How moving from London to British Columbia affected her photography 
• How our life experiences feed back into our photography 

Connect with Anna:
Website: https://www.annamorgan.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annamorganphotographer

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim as she speaks with New York based documentary photography Kamal X. Kamal began his photographic journey following the passing of his best friend. Trough travel and self discovery, he found his love for connecting with others and documenting the world around him. This lead him to creating his latest book "Black Astronaut" which documents the real side of life in New York during both the pandemic and Black Lives Matters movement. 

• Journey into photography 
• Coping with the passing of his best friend 
• Travelling the world
• His love for documentary photography 
• The importance of honesty 
• How documentary photography help us connect with people 
• Being a student and learning about the photography world
• Only photographing what moves him 
• Finding his voice and freedom 
• Being our true authentic self
• Pre-visualising his photographs 
• Connecting with those he photographs 
• How living in New York helps his photography
• Living in a city surrounded by diversity and opportunities 
• His new book - Black astronaut
• Feeling isolated and afraid during the pandemic 
• Documenting the real side of life 
• Photographing a civil rights movement 
• Putting every part of him into his book 
• Going into the unknown
• Your voice matters 
• Finding your reason for doing something 
• We all have a story 
• Designing his own book 

Connect with Kamal:
Website: https://www.iamkamalx.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkamalx/
Buy Black Astronaut Book 

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim as she speaks with British landscape photographer and YouTuber Courtney Victoria. She shares her creative story and how she felt when she discovered the world of photography and video. She also talk about her time living in South Korea and how YouTube has given her a safe space to be herself. Courtney also has a very deep connection to nature and her local area, allowing her to share some ideas and exercises for you to try in your own local locations. 

• Journey into photography 
• Trying different creative outlets 
• Why she fell in love with photography 
• Moving to South Korea and how this inspired her photography 
• Enjoying the process of experimenting with photography 
• Her fine art background 
• The subjectivity of art and photography 
• Enjoying the journey
• How YouTube is her safe space allowing her to be herself 
• Going through a personal journey off camera 
• Why she started her YouTube channel 
• Her video making process
• Her love for music and dance 
• Being an introvert and struggling to be herself 
• Her YouTube allows her to be herself 
• Her connection to nature growing up 
• How nature connection has helped her with her mental health
• Embarking on her own spiritual journey 
• Her love for woodland and waterfalls 
• Why she loves to revisit the same locations 
• Seeing beauty in the smallest of things 
• Her love for her local area 
• Her macro photography has helped deepen her connection to the forest 
• Taking the time to develop a connection to the woodland 
• Exercises to help us hone in and see things 
• How she approaches her photography 
• How our mindset can effect our creative process 
• Reconnecting with our inner child 
• Enjoying the experience of life 

Connect with Courtney:
Website: https://www.courtneyvictoriaphotography.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtneyvictoria
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtney_victoriaphotography/

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Join Kim as she speaks with Norwegian photographer Klaus Axelsen. Klaus is a landscape photographer who loves creating calming images of nature. He shares how reconnecting with nature and discovering photography gave him relief from stress and panic attacks and how he adopts a mindful approach to creating his images. 

Topics Covered

• Journey into photography
• Reconnecting with nature 
• How photography helped him through stress 
• Experiencing panic attacks 
• Being calmed down by photography and nature
• Being introduced to mindfulness and meditation
• How photography helped him connect with mindfulness 
• Experiencing a connection to nature 
• Why he photographs nature and landscapes 
• Having a connection to nature in childhood 
• Rediscovering himself through nature 
• How photography and nature had a positive impact on the rest of his life
• His photographic process
• How his approach differs between local locations and travel 
• Slowing down and getting to know a location
• What speaks to him the most in nature
• How our photographic process changes over time
• Putting emotion and feeling into his images 
• His love for minimal photography 
• How simple images can really speak to us 
• Evolving as a photographer
• Creating images with a sense of calm
• Enjoying photography projects
• His vision for his photography work
• How going new places can give us inspiration 

Connect with Klaus:
Website: https://www.kaxelsenfoto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/klausaxelsenphoto

---

Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/

5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation

Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends

Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections

Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography

Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic