CAN THE PHOTO BE USED AS A THERAPY FORM?
Photography is not only a form of art; it is also a means of expression and a way of conveying thoughts and feelings. One photograph can tell hundreds of different stories. This is one of the reasons why some people perceive photography as a hobby, and others as a form of therapy.
Photography can be a good form of psychological treatment for people who need to “get back on track,” or those who are in the process of recovering from a tragic or sad incident in life. Photos have a healing effect on many people. At times, expressing emotions in words becomes too difficult; and this is exactly the moment when photography can help. In a world saturated with media, where people spend more and more time looking at screens, one would think that picking up a camera to recover from mental trauma is illogical, but scientific research proves the opposite.
Can I use photography as a form of therapy?
In 2010, scientists analyzed and reported more than 100 studies on the effects of art on physical and psychological health in The Connection Between Art, Healing, and Public Health: The Connection Between Art, Healing, and Public Health: A Review of Current Literature). The results were clear. Photography not only allows a person to express themselves, but also helps to focus on positive life experiences, increases self-esteem and reduces the level of stress hormone – cortisol.
Have you ever heard of the scientific concept of flow? Flow is a mental state in which a person performing an action is completely immersed in a sense of concentrated attention, absolute awareness. Whether it’s cooking, dancing or photographing, the flow often arises when you are passionate about some kind of creative task. Time disappears, you forget and become part of something more.
The whole process of shooting – from choosing an object to opening new angles and controlling light – requires absolute attention. This observation process is inherently a meditative task that brings you to a calm and peaceful state.
Two types of photography
There are two types of photography that are considered effective forms of therapy: therapeutic photography and phototherapy. Both types do not require special photographic skills, training or in-depth knowledge in this area.
Can I use photography as a form of therapy?
Therapeutic Photography
Methods of therapeutic photography are photographic practices whose goal is to achieve positive changes, improve well-being, and reduce social isolation in individuals, couples, or families.
The technique includes independent photo-events on their own initiative, where a person, or group of people, is engaged in photography as a form of psychological treatment. In such situations, there is no professional consultant or therapist working with a person or persons in need of therapy. In principle, no actual therapy session has a place to be; only photographs and the activity itself provide its entire process. However, it is important to note that therapeutic photography is not limited to photography alone. It also includes viewing photos, posing for taking pictures, discussing photos, as well as the process of imagining or visualizing various frames.
Most people who engage in therapeutic photography often join groups such as cameramen or adventure clubs.
