Mindful Photography

Remember when photography was fun?

Take the competition out of your photography, and find the calm and the captivating. Go back to that place when photography was fun.

Join any time

Work at your own pace – you'll have access to the lessons for as long as Emma is in business. Every April there is a group run-through for those who prefer to work together: you can join in this every year if you want to.

Recharge your mental batteries

The course gives you space to devote to yourself: your journey, your creativity, your vision.

What if I don’t like it?

If you join the course and decide it is not for you, there is a no-questions-asked money back guarantee for the first 30 days.

Due to the number of students taking part Emma is no longer able to provide individual feedback on images and the price of the course has been reduced to reflect this. Photo School staff will be on hand for administrative help but no live teaching takes place.


This course gave me so many insights as to how and why I approach my photography and actually my approach to life in general. There were so many useful ideas and suggestions. I found it very logical but also very insightful. Thank you Emma!
— Julie

What's included?

  1. 14 lessons with a photography or journalling project to complete for each.

  2. Private community group.

  3. No individual feedback is given on photos - this is a non-critical course.

  4. Group run-through once a year; next start 4 April 2024. Join any time to work at your own pace.

Curriculum

  • Part 1: Enjoy the journey

  • Part 2: Focus

  • Part 3: Space to be creative

  • Part 4: Self

  • Part 5: Becoming less predictable

  • Part 6: Strength in vulnerability

  • Part 7: Glass half full? 

Excellent course for giving budding photographers the ability to spend time with their photography, to understand that the shots they like taking are theirs, and that there is no ‘right or wrong’. It enables the learner to appreciate the beauty or photographic opportunity within all things.
— Carole

FAQ

What gear do I need?

Any camera at all, including a phone camera. There is no technical tuition in this course, so no need for off-auto modes, or different lenses. You'll also need a degree of curiosity, and some open mindedness.

What is mindful photography?

Mindful photography is a way of taking photographs that focusses on the journey rather than the destination. You will learn to give each moment your full attention, rather than worrying about shots you are missing, or the kit you don't have.

Is it spiritual?

No: this course has no spiritual component.

What will I learn?

The exercises and projects will give you clarity and boost your confidence. You will find new ideas popping up and your creativity will take off. You will start to operate at peak performance faster. You will stop worrying about what others are doing or thinking, and be able to focus on yourself and the moment you are in.

Do I need to live near a beach or be in nature?

Absolutely not. Mindful photography is not about being at one with nature. It is about being present in the moment you find yourself in, wherever that may be. You can practise mindful photography anywhere at all: in the middle of a city, in a field, in your kitchen, in a crowd or on your own.

Is it hard work?

Yes, but you will enjoy every minute. The course is not just sitting on a cushion waiting for inspiration to arrive - you will need to do a lot of thinking, some writing, and plenty of photography.

How long will it take?

Some lessons will take 2-3 hours or longer to sink in, others will take less than 15 minutes. You will have access to the course for as long as Emma is in business. You can work at your own pace, or come back and repeat any lessons at any time.

What if I don’t like it?

If you join the course and decide it is not for you, there is a no-questions-asked money back guarantee for the first 30 days.

Is feedback included?

There is no instructor feedback in this course. It is not a course that involves criticism. Moderators are on hand to help you navigate the community.

The lessons are well written, and the videos, literature references are wonderful. I was surprised how much my perception of myself has changed in a positive way.
— Gisela

Your instructor: Photographer Emma Davies was a Travel Photographer of the Year finalist in 2017 and has been shortlisted (2016) and highly commended (2018) in International Garden Photographer of the Year. She is published by The Telegraph, Gardens Illustrated, Outdoor Photography and Digital Photography Magazines and by the BBC. She wrote the Amazon #1 bestselling book A Year With My Camera.

MSc Psychology (2013)

MA Photography (2023)


I have enjoyed the journey of this course since it challenges me to look inside, rather than through the lens, to find the inspiration for my photography.

Thank you, Emma, for the thoughtful crafting of this course and the great reference materials along with your thoughts on your own journey.
— Gloria