Slow Photography 2022: A Manifesto

“Like a lighthouse beam, focused yet illuminating all horizons,
our slow photography process is bright, outwardly directed
and keeps our journey on a steady course.” 
Jim Austin 

Saint Augustine Light, Copyright 2022.

7 Point Slow Photography Manifesto
by Jimages


1. Slow photography is a way of thinking. Our photographs become meaningful when we see what others see but visualize them uniquely. Doing slow photography, we do not need any special gear, camera, lens or filter.

2. Let the scene's meaning emerge gradually. Our brain's visual system requires time to slow down and compose in context. ​A camera may have a light speed computer, but in the human brain, thought takes time.

3.  Slow photographers practice compassionate ethics. We try to make our moves and actions compassionate and "full of mind." We avoid putting others, animals, nature
or ourselves at risk.

4. Sit down, be quiet, take a visual inventory.

Last bubble on ironshore, Bahamas, Copyright 2022.

​5. Go back again, and photograph again. The meaning of a place, and your place in it, will deepen over repeated visits. 

6. A slow photographer visits fewer places but lets each one fill her vision.
She stays longer, explores one area and its residents, and then recharges her mind. Sleep is essential to make creative work. A well-rested photographer makes better images than a hyper-caffeinated one. Don't run on fumes.

7. If circumstances make us rush, we pause. Speed kills. Don't chase your subject; return to it. Find where no tripod holes have been, stay still, listen, watch.

Note: This declaration and viewpoint are my opinion and perspective only,
not intended as facts or advice.
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Happy hour on the Salty Paws catamaran solar panel, copyright 2022.