During this early stage of development I decided to photograph my immediate surroundings, in Ashton under Hill. This is a well trodden area, a place I find myself in almost daily. I wonder whether it might offer up some inspiration to me. Does it hold significance in relation to my theme? As its so familiar to me, do I really ‘see’ the surroundings or am I complacent? I do very much enjoy this area of woodland but since there is a recent history of access restriction, because the woodland came under new ownership in 2020, I have felt less at ease here. Hopefully this might change over time, but I wonder if I can realistically find what I am seeking in the short term.

Whilst I like many of the images here, I don’t think they have the depth I am trying to portray. I also think that because it is summertime and the light is strong, it has proven difficult to create enough atmosphere and show the textures of the environment in the way I ordinarily would. The colours feel too jarring and the photographs unremarkable, for what I am after.

I feel some frustration at this early stage at not having a clear idea of what I am trying to present, however, this does start me thinking about the psychology of what I am doing and reminding myself of how I feel most ‘at home’ with a more immersive, slower approach to making work. With this in mind, I will research aspects of mindfulness in photography in more detail, to see if this might help to guide me.

Link to original files: 7800 IMAGES