Today (I wrote this text on the 21st of November, 2023), I will write about the healing power of street photography and how this sportive and creative activity can improve one’s mental health.
Why, in my case, is street photography a sport? Because while doing street photography, I am on the move. I walk. I do it because I love strolling. For me, walking is one of the most underrated activities. Walking improves our health and general well-being. It heals our bodies, minds, and souls. While I walk, I often contemplate many things. I feel like the outside world is in me. On the other hand, while photographing surrounding mundane reality, I feel like my inside worldview is out. I was inspired to write the last sentences thanks to one of the most marvelous Beatles songs (from the so-called “White Album”), “Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey.”
Undoubtedly, I will write some words about this tune in the future.
The possibility of expressing oneself thanks to street photography is another proof of its healing power. Doing street photography is right, and it makes sense. It does not matter how, when, or where you do it. If you desire to photograph your surroundings, do it for yourself and for millions of other people who, perhaps, will watch these photographs with you. The older I am, the more I feel street photography is a neverending topic, full of neverending inspirations that happen every day near all of us. Practice it only if you desire to do it, my Dear Friend. Walking and photographing your surroundings will strengthen your mental health. It will make you more powerful and confident. If only the law in your country allows photographing public places, do not be afraid of other people’s reactions and opinions. Do it to increase your mental power.
