Thomas M. Brady American Legion Post 45 is rolling out another veteran-focused program for free designed to help deal with mental health. The concept of mindfulness has been accepted by VA and other mental health agencies as a productive method of getting veterans to focus themselves on a single topic. In this case, we are looking to get the veterans focused using the concept of mindful photography, noted Jim LIndenmayer, service officer and sponsor of this program.
The FRESH EYES program recently received a $10,000 grant from the National Endowment from the Arts, which will provide funding for photography classes taught by professional photographers free of charge to veterans and significant others. No camera other than a cellphone is needed for any of the classes described below:
Designed for beginners, this course introduces participants to the techniques of taking well-exposed and well-composed photos of whatever content interests them. Subjects include: How to manually control shutter speed, f/stop (diaphragm) and ISO (sensor sensitivity) to achieve well-exposed photographs. How to control depth of field for artistic effects, photos, setting camera to achieve desired effects and lens selection. Participants complete “HomeFun” assignments, and photos are discussed in class to encourage engagement and constructive feedback.
PHOTO II: PHOTOGRAPHY AS ART
This course is for veterans who have understand the basic manual exposure controls and basic rules of composition. Topics include:
* Composition principles such as leading lines, symmetry and patterns
* Recognizing and using different qualities of light
* Storytelling through images
* Learning from photographic masters
At the conclusion, they share selected images and reflect on their work with the group and prepare their work for an exhibition.
Martin is a professional photographer has taught the Photo I and II classes at Kennesaw State University for the past eight years.
MINDFUL PHOTOGRAPHY
Six consecutive weekly two-hour sessions
Mindful photography is mindfulness practiced through the lens of a camera. Participants are guided to:
* Slow down and become fully present
* Focus non-judgmentally on visual qualities such as color, texture, shape, light, reflections and contrast
* Engage intentionally with their surroundings
Participants receive simple assignments that direct their attention to specific themes (e.g., texture, light or “opposites”). After careful observation, they take photographs that capture what drew their attention. Group members are invited to share their photographs and reflect on what they noticed or experienced.
ALAN BERNHARDT AND MARK MALONEY
Alan is a psychologist with 23 years' experience working for the VA Healthcare System and is a lifelong lover of photography. Mark was a Vietnam combat photographer, is a successful entrepreneur in orthopedics industry, and an avid photographer, artist and poet.
