Going on an excursion is a great way to break from the pressures of busy daily life, clear your head and set the right frame of mind for a creative endeavour. There are many types of excursion you can take: a mindful meditation, listening to a favourite music track, or simply going for stroll in the park.

A photo walk is one of the most creatively stimulating excursions.

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Explore 5 ways to get your creative juices flowing and overcome creative blocks, including The Photo Walk.

How to go on a photo walk?

Take 5-10 minutes to go for a walk with your smartphone or camera. This can be in the countryside or busy city streets – and is best done individually or small groups of two or three. It’s good to have an idea of the route you want to take but be open to changing direction if the mood takes you.

Be sure to pace yourself, walking slowly with comfortable regular steps. As you start to walk, focus first the broad environment or landscape around you. Take some pictures that set the scene, that show the big picture view. As you move forward, notice the temperature, the shape of trees or buildings, the wind, the shifting light and shadows. Capture them in photos.

Continue to walk slowly. Take note of colours, of forms and their functions. If something catches your eye, let your focus fall on it. Observe it, analyse it, try to take in its details. Take some pictures to capture what appealed to you. Then move on. Walking calmly, noticing and observing, taking photos of anything – or anyone – interesting along the way.

At the end of your walk take a few minutes with your group to reflect on the journey: how did you feel? What did you like? Share the images that most caught your attention and discuss what made them stand out.