About the workshop

Mindful photography workshops offer an opportunity to step away from the every day and to discover a different perspective. A chance to pause, to connect with the world around you and use photography as a means to explore how you feel in that moment. Photographic workshops by Paul Sanders are an immersive and transformative experience that have the power to shift your outlook on life.

Combining this with the practice of Forest Bathing guided by Tansy Jane Dowman, offers an opportunity to deepen your connection with Nature first and then see what arises within those moments and asks to be captured in a photograph. Forest Bathing is a fast growing wellbeing practice that simply means ' to bathe in the atmosphere of the Forest' and to invite the environment in through all of your senses so that you can access a connection and experience not solely from the analytical mind.

During the workshop you will be guided by Tansy to connect to the forest and offered invitations that support the process with ease and deep relaxation. Paul will then offer guidance on the photography allowing the 2 elements to merge together so that your photography reflects your inner state of feeling and being.

This wonderfully insightful workshop will offer an opportunity for both deep learning and relaxation and will include a tea ceremony to close.

Please note: It is not necessary to have a professional camera for this workshop and smart phones are absolutely fine to use. You also do not need to have any experience of photography so all levels are welcome.

About Paul Sanders

Paul’s approach to landscape photography is one of mindful connection. His images are created in response to his emotional and spiritual reactions to the locations he visits. Many of his images are created using long exposure techniques to reflect the sense of calm he feels when watching the clouds blow in over the coast or waves moving against the shoreline. Landscape photography started as a form of therapy for Paul, as he struggled to cope with the pressure and stress of his previous role as Picture Editor of The Times. Looking at nearly 20,000 images every day and the associated responsibilities left him suffering with stress, depression, insomnia and anxiety. Through his photography, he was able to express himself where words failed him.

Paul holds regular Mindful photography workshops and retreats in the UK and abroad.

About Tansy Jane Dowman

Tansy is a People Walker and Nature Connector. She believes deeply that connection to Mother Nature is a direct pathway of reconnection with your soul, your inner wild self and your true nature. As a certified Shinrin Yoku Guide and Natural Mindfulness Teacher, she is driven by a purpose to reignite our relationship with this majestic planet we inhabit. To return to our place of origin and discover a sense of belonging that is waiting for us when we are ready to acknowledge and embrace our deeper connection to the wild.

Also an outdoor empowerment coach for women, Tansy walks alongside her clients on their journey of personal evolution. Nature connection is at the core of her work, her passion, even her name which is a wild flower.

Tansy holds a variety of workshops, retreats and walks all centred around finding a connection to Nature and the self.

About Staffhurst Wood

Staffhurst wood is an ancient woodland dated over 1000 years old. Located on the border of Kent and Surrey it is a beautiful peaceful woodland that does not get overrun with visitors due to being off the beaten track. The woodland is home to ancient Beech and yew trees with plenty of Oak and Hornbeam. In Spring it hosts a lush carpet of Bluebells, making it a sacred and protected piece of land. It is a perfect location for both Forest Bathing and Mindful Photography with huge character and a deeply relaxing presence.

Details of the day

- Upon booking you will be sent a booking form to fill out and will be sent full location details and what to bring etc.

- A separate camera is not a requirement for this workshop but are welcome. Smart phones are also good to bring.

- Sensible clothes and footwear are required.

- Tea and healthy snack will be served. Please bring your own water and feel free to bring additional snacks if you wish.