Photography is one of the many hobbies that can foster happiness. While this practice used to be expensive during the time of film cameras, camera phones have made it significantly more accessible. But how exactly do photos bring us more joy? Let’s find out.
Fosters Creativity
Creative activities like painting, pottery, and music can be very expressive. They can help reduce stress and anxiety and make us generally happier. Photography is another one of these practices that can help those creative juices flow.
A good challenge to keep you active is to take or post one picture a day. It pushes us to find something worth capturing every day. “When you challenge yourself to learn a new skill, you are building your intellectual health. People who pay attention to their intellectual wellness often find that they have better concentration, improved memory, and better critical thinking skills,” says Marjie L. Roddick, MA, NCC, LMHC.
Acts As A Journal Or Diary
Another expressive activity is journaling. Alison Stone, LCSW states that “Journaling is great for enhancing self-awareness through helping us detect and track patterns of behavior, thoughts, and feelings.”However, not everyone is fond of or comfortable with writing. As an alternative, a visual diary can help you document memories and special occasions.
On days where we feel a bit down, our photo journals can remind us of better times. Even pictures of everyday life activities can boost our mood. Our collection of photographs can also serve as something we can share with others.
Reminds Us Of The Things We Love
As many people say, nothing is truly permanent. Our loved ones will pass, events will end, and memories can fade. However, a photograph can be somewhat more lasting. Even when we graduate from school, move to a new city, or find a new job, our photos will remain unchanged.
While it does not bode well to cling to the past, looking back helps us remember the good moments. Moreover, it helps us realize how far we’ve come since then.
Connects You To Others
If you’re looking to get into photography, you’ll be glad to know that the community is vast and very welcoming. From online groups to neighborhood gatherings, you’re sure to find people who are always willing to share.
Many participants find that the community provides a sense of belongingness. You can exchange tips on how to take better photographs and even collaborate on shoots. This social aspect of the hobby allows people to feel more connected to others and, thus, happier as a whole.
Makes Us More Engaged And Attentive
Most people say that those who frequently take photos aren’t “living in the moment.” However, according to a study from the University Of Southern Carolina Marshall School Of Business, photography can create a better experience.
During their research, they asked two tour groups not to use their phones. Then, they encouraged a different set of participants to take photos. They observed the latter explored and looked at museum exhibits longer. Likewise, the third group also felt more “immersed” in their meals during lunch.
Researchers say that asking people to take photos makes them actively look for things they want to document. In this way, they can find things that make them happy and want to hang onto. As Roya R. Rad, MA, PsyD advises, “Give yourself permission to do some serious emotional healing to become your happiest self and remember, it is a process more than a destination.”
Seeing a camera can often prompt a smile from the person who has their picture taken. However, we don’t always get to see the person behind the lens. Photography doesn’t just bring happiness to those in the front of the camera but also the photographer. Taking pictures can bring about greater creativity and remind us of things that bring us joy. It connects us with others and keeps us engaged with life. By looking through the lens of a camera, we capture moments, memories, and happiness.