Tree, Myself and Eye: Nature Photography as Therapy
Workshop Overview
Spending time in nature has countless health benefits, but to be immersed in the study of it through a camera lens opens us up to a new level of awe and wonder. In this workshop, we will explore questions about what elements of nature we are drawn to and why, how nature images reflect back our personal experiences, and how the act of photographing serves as a mindfulness practice. In addition to deepening our relationship to nature and ourselves, this ADA-accessible workshop is inclusive of **all skill levels** and includes technical skill instruction, therapeutic guidance, and professional image editing support.
Program Schedule and Locations:
Saturday, April 05, 2025: This 3-hour Workshop will be held from 9:00am - 12:00pm on the grounds of Rose Hill Manor and Children's Museum (1611 N Market Street, Frederick MD). All registered attendees are asked to meet at the benches adjacent to the outdoor restrooms.
Tuesday, April 08, 2025: Participants are invited to attend a follow up Virtual Showcase and Discussion to share their professionally-edited images, solicit feedback from their peers, and discuss the emotional content and personal choices behind their artwork.
"When I step back from the world and behind the lens, I actually feel more connected to it. There is a calm to nature photography. It’s made me more patient. For example, if I take the picture now, it might look good. But if I wait twenty minutes, it might be a piece of art.” – Martin Kyle
Martin Kyle Photography
Workshop Facilitators
Martin Kyle is an award-winning photographer and author of Poetry Through an Autistic Eye. He grew up in Northern Ireland during The Troubles in the 1980s and 1990s and relocated to the United States as a teenager. Shortly after arriving in Maryland in 2002, he developed a passion for photography after capturing an image of pine cones against a sunset at Sugarloaf Mountain. His career includes product photography for the spirits and beauty industries and numerous awards for his fine photography which has been curated for galleries and stores throughout the mid-Atlantic. Martin is excited to share his technical skills, the therapeutic influence of photography in his personal journey, and proud to contribute to mental health initiatives as a member of the neurodivergent community.
Kris Bajgier, LCSW-C, MEd is a clinical social worker and member of the Wilderness Guides Council. She has certifications in Nature-Informed Therapy and Wilderness First Aid. She is a creative spirit with a love of hiking, foraging, and personal development. She will will co-facilitate with Martin to provide gentle guidance for participants to explore their relationship to nature, the lens, and the self through mindfulness and embodiment practices. Read More >>
Participant Preparation
Participants are asked to bring water, dress appropriately for the weather, and to bring the image-capturing device of their choice. Cell phones, point-and-shoot cameras and more professional grade photography equipment are permitted. A limited number of cameras for loan will be made available to participants in need upon request.
Program Costs
Workshop registration is $60/person. Fee includes:
* 3-hour in-person group experience involving foundational photography instruction
* Guided nature photography prompts for self reflection and nature contemplation
* Free professional editing of images captured and curated by participants
* Free digital resources for ongoing learning and self discovery
* Access to the 90-min Virtual Showcase and Discussion
Registration
If you have questions before registering or would like to inquire about scholarships available to persons experiencing financial hardship, please reach out to Kris at krista@outdoortherapeutics.com to discuss options.