Stay Inspired, Stay Creative

My friend Dan mentioned that he hadn’t seen my macro photography recently. I realized I haven’t shared much about this part of my life, so I thought I’d open up about what’s been happening. 

Truth be told, I’ve been in a bit of a photography rut lately. For those who don’t know, my macro photography is more than just a passion—it’s a crucial part of my mental health management. Several years ago, I turned to macro photography as a form of therapy, and it has become a vital tool in my journey toward better mental health. 

I’ve always been cautious about the conventional route of managing mental health issues, particularly when it comes to medications. It’s a personal choice, but I’ve found that for me, many doctors tend to be quick to prescribe pills. While medication is a lifesaver for some, I’ve been striving to manage my well-being through other means whenever possible. 

Photography challenges me to focus on the small, intricate details of the world around us, which helps shift my mind away from heavier thoughts and provides a peaceful refuge from the daily grind. The level of focus and mindfulness required in macro photography allows me to practice being present, channelling my energy into capturing the beauty found in the minutiae of life. 

But like anyone, I hit lows sometimes. The creative block hits and can feel like a cycle where not being able to shoot feeds into my down moods, which feeds the block. Recognizing this pattern is the first step in breaking it, and I’m working on finding that spark again. 

For anyone else feeling the weight, whether you’re a fellow photographer or not, finding that thing—your version of macro photography—that helps you manage the rough patches is so important. It’s about finding balance, managing stress, and staying connected to what brings us joy and meaning beyond the quick fixes. 

Thanks for letting me share this piece of my journey. Let’s keep the conversation about mental health open. It’s OK to have tough days, and it’s OK to talk about them. More importantly, seeking help in a way that feels right for you is OK.

 Stay focused, stay inspired.