Behind the Lens Friday: How Photography Becomes a Meditative Flow

Photography and how it mirrors the mindfulness of meditation.

All the photos below were taken today while I walked around my backyard.

Over the years, I’ve learned that finding moments of tranquility in our fast-paced world can be challenging if you’re not intentional about your time and selective about your energy.

Photography has become somewhat of a sanctuary for me; whether wandering around with my camera or working on an assignment, it is a meditative practice that allows me to immerse myself fully in the present moment.

When I am behind the lens, the noise of daily life fades.

I’m not thinking about before or after; my mind is only on the right now, the present moment, as that’s what I have, and the expectant moment is the one I prepare for.

The camera extends my awareness, guiding me into a state of ‘flow’ where time seems to stand still. This experience is akin to meditation, fostering a deep connection between the subject and myself.

Here, we have my dog Apollo, and while he was focused elsewhere, I watched him.

It was cold out, but I remember that while watching him, I couldn’t feel the cold; I couldn’t feel anything. I was just focused on watching what he was doing and ready to snap the picture when I saw what I wanted to share.

This mindful approach enables me to capture authentic moments, revealing the true essence of my subjects. Whether it’s the determination in an athlete’s eyes or the joy of families together, these genuine emotions are what my work is built on.

I use the tagline "Emotion in Motion" and if you follow my visual storytelling on Instagram at @ZPhotographyandMedia, you’ll see that each image reflects a moment of mindful presence. 

As I track an athlete's movement on the court or frame the perfect portrait under natural light, my mind syncs with the moment. Even watching the bushes sway slightly in the breeze, frozen in time due to the weather, as was the case above, I still am connected to everything I see.

In those instances, I focus on the composition, lighting, and emotion unfolding before me. This deep concentration fuels creativity and sharpens my instincts, allowing me to anticipate and capture the most powerful, fleeting moments.

In this state of flow, I feel most alive, connected not just to my work but to the people and stories I’m capturing.

Photography brings me joy, makes me money, brings joy to other people’s lives, and reminds me to slow down and just “be present.” I hope everyone finds their version of an art that does the same for them.

- Zac Small

PS: If you want me to capture your special moments, consider booking a session with Z Photography and Media. Together, we can create lasting memories through a mindful approach to photography.