Ep53 - Stephen Hatch: Spiritual Growth Through Nature Photography

Photographic Connections

Join Kim Grant as she speaks with Stephen Hatch; a contemplative teacher, thinker, photographer, and writer, as he shares his deep connection with nature and how photography can help us connect with the oneness of life. He emphasises the importance of silence and beauty in nature and how it can inspire interior love and joy. Much of Stephen's inspiration came from from John Muir, leading him down a path of spirituality and healing in nature. He emphasises the need for a two-way relationship with the natural world and how it can provide support and healing during difficult times, as well as his photographic process, involving immersing himself in the landscape and creating images that make the viewer feel like they are inside nature.
Takeaways

• Nature has the power to inspire and connect us with the oneness of the world.
• Silence and beauty in nature can help cultivate a deep sense of awareness and transcendence.
• Disconnecting from technology and slowing down is essential to truly connect with nature.
• Contemplative photography allows the landscape to capture us and express itself through us. Contemplative photography involves listening to what the landscape wants to say through the camera and journaling.
• Nature provides support and healing during difficult times and can be a source of connection and inspiration.
• Immersing oneself in the landscape and capturing images that make the viewer feel inside nature can create a sense of depth and immersion.
• Men can benefit from finding their place in nature and developing a deeper sense of the beloved, which can help them connect with their emotions and find strength.
• Beauty is the harmony of contrasts, and nature can help us tap into our playful and emotional sides.

Connect with Stephen:
Website: https://www.resourcesforspiritualgrowth.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestephenhatchoutlook

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Website: https://www.photographicconnections.com/
5 Senses Activation: https://www.photographicconnections.com/five-senses-activation
Immersive Photography Weekends in Scotland:
https://www.photographicconnections.com/photographyweekends
Follow the journey
Instagram: http:/www.instagram.com/photographicconnections
Follow Kim's photography journey and offerings
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@kimgrantphotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/kimgrantphotography
Music by Mark Robinson
Song: A Thousand Lifetimes
Website: http:/www.markrobinsonmusic.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkRobinsonMusic

Chapters

1. Introduction and Background (00:00:00)

2. Stephen's Journey into Photography (00:03:05)

3. Stephen's Deep Connection to Nature (00:05:28)

4. Inspiration from John Muir (00:08:23)

5. Studying Philosophy, Religion, and Mysticism (00:11:03)

6. The Power of Silence in Nature (00:13:27)

7. The Beauty of Nature and Transcendence (00:14:52)

8. Contemplative Photography and Nature's Expression (00:22:36)

9. Embracing Emotions and Softness (00:26:19)

10. Nature as Support and Healing (00:29:47)

11. Creating Immersive Photographs (00:33:02)

12. Earth-Based Spirituality (00:35:27)

13. Men's Issues and Sacred Masculinity (00:43:29)

14. Embracing Emotions and Softness (00:46:19)