I like this photo very much in color, but I feel this black and white version accomplishes more of what I was trying to do as I'm reading Eyes of the Heart, Photography as a Christian Contemplative Practice by Christine Valters Paintner.
Paintner presents photography as a way to slow down, gaze deeply, and become so present to what is being gazed upon that all sense of time is lost and a sense of gratitude is found.
For use as a contemplative tool, she suggests selecting the image that "is calling for more time to dwell within it." This black and white version of the beautiful Kousa Dogwood blossom is that image for me.
Lovely image, Janet. Your comment intrigues me greatly. I've become interested in mindfulness and contemplative meditation/prayer this summer and have been doing a lot of reading on it. I want to use mindfulness with my kindergarten students this coming school year as a tool to help them focus. The application will be secular since I teach in a public school, but as a Christian I'm definitely interested in the spiritual side for my own benefit. Will have to read the book you mentioned! Thank you!
Thank you, Julie! What a wonderful idea for your students! I began the book over the weekend, and I am really enjoying it so far. Today was the first day I set out with camera to put the author's suggestions to use; and I truly loved my outing. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I do. Good luck with your endeavors!
I think you have truly accomplished your goal here. This shot calls to be looked at carefully and for those who's faith is an important part of their life, it does add the meditative aspect in to the viewing. I am intrigued by this book and will have to track it down as I often speak on photography and the art of seeing in relation to my Christian faith! It sounds like something I would thoroughly enjoy. Right now I am reading God is at Eye Level by Jan Phillips. You might enjoy that one too. Thanks so much for the follow! And I'm waving hello from the eastern side of Pa! Maybe some day we can meet in the middle! God Bless!!
@olivetreeann Thank you, Ann! I'm glad you were able to pick up on my intentions with this photo. I am only a few chapters into Eyes of the Heart, and I already love it. I also read God is at Eye Level a few weeks ago and loved it as well. I found both books to be very thought-provoking, and they have most definitely changed my approach to photography and increased my awareness of the blessings each day holds. God is so good! I hoping you're enjoying Summer in beautiful Pennsylvania!
