Capturing moments through photography boosts personal well-being, focusing solely on the art and the lens.
In a world where the fast-paced rhythm of life often leaves little room for reflection, renowned photographer Sebastian Oakley has found solace in the slower, more contemplative rhythm of photography. For nearly two decades, Oakley has been internationally published, specializing in equestrianism, but it's his recent foray into Street/Documentary photography that has rekindled his passion for the craft.
Photography, for Oakley, is no longer about chasing the perfect shot or seeking validation from clients or commissions. Instead, it has become a deeply personal hobby, a way to process the world, express feelings, and reconnect with the moment. Shooting for oneself brings a kind of honesty to the frame, free from the pressure of pleasing others.
Oakley, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and a Master of Arts in Publishing, now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E or Leica M2. He finds joy in the simple act of picking up a camera and creating, without an audience or a specific purpose.
The freedom to shoot what he loves, how he feels, without constraint, is where the joy in photography lies for Oakley. Photowalks have become his way to reset, whether in quiet woodland, unfamiliar towns, or local parks. The camera gives purpose to the walk, making the mundane interesting through a lens.
Personal photography, as a form of therapy and self-expression, offers several significant benefits. Engaging with personal photos can stimulate the brain, encouraging neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, improving quality of life, particularly for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. It promotes self-awareness, reduces stress and anxiety, and fosters creativity and personal expression.
Moreover, photography can act as a powerful tool for telling personal stories and creating metaphors that help people process trauma or complex emotions. It offers a safe space to distance oneself from difficult topics while still engaging with them in a meaningful way. For individuals who might find verbal communication challenging, photography offers a safe and personal language of expression, fostering emotional awareness, connection, and self-understanding.
In summary, personal photography combines cognitive stimulation, emotional expression, and creative exploration, making it a versatile and empowering therapeutic tool for diverse populations. It reduces isolation, enhances mental well-being, and helps individuals communicate and process their experiences visually. For Sebastian Oakley, this newfound love for personal photography has brought a sense of peace and a renewed appreciation for the art form.
[1] [Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association](http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07421656.2016.1169119) [2] [The Arts in Psychotherapy](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01974556.2017.1303811) [3] [Creative Arts Therapies](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10520605.2017.1320272) [4] [Autism: The International Journal of Research and Practice](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1524845617728302)
- In his pursuit of peace and self-expression, renowned photographer Sebastian Oakley frequently employs a mirrorless drone camera, capturing unique perspectives of travel and home-and-garden scenes.
- During a recent review of the latest mirrorless camera models, Oakley found himself drawn to a compact Sony mirrorless camera with an impressive shutter speed, perfect for capturing the swift movements of his equestrian subjects.
- Oakley's newfound appreciation for personal photography extends to capturing video footage as well, with the latest mirrorless cameras offering superior video quality in a lightweight, travel-friendly body.
- As he delves deeper into the world of personal photography, Sebastian Oakley writes news articles about the latest camera technology, sharing his insights and experiences with a wider audience, inspiring others to find joy in the simple act of creating.
- In the realm of lifestyle and photography, Oakley's focus on personal growth and self-expression resonates with a generation seeking authenticity, promoting the idea that even in a fast-paced world, one can find peace through the contemplative act of photography.
- Oakley's passion for photography extends beyond the realms of traditional still-life photography, engaging in home-and-garden photography that showcases the beauty in everyday life through a unique lens, reflecting an avant-garde approach to mirrorless camera craftsmanship.
