There’s a particular kind of attention that happens when we slow down with a camera in hand. We stop scanning for the next thing and start noticing what’s already here: the way morning light catches the edge of a leaf, the pattern of bark on an old oak, the shape of bare branches against a November sky. Photography becomes less about getting the shot and more about the seeing itself.
This is the heart of the Sage Photography Project, which Melissa Maillett and I have been nurturing over the past year and a half. We’ve found that when we bring curiosity and presence to what we photograph, the image teaches us something about our inner landscapes. The camera becomes a self-discovery tool. We’ve seen this unfold again and again in the Sage Photography retreats we’ve led together.
Now we’re ready to grow this into a community.
What we’re offering
We’ll be guiding free Sage Photography walks in Northern Virginia from time to time. These are 90-minute outings where we wander, pause, and practice looking more closely together. No experience or special equipment needed. A phone camera and a curious eye are plenty.
Each month we also share a photo prompt on Instagram at @the_sage_photography_project. November’s prompt is Bare Branches, an invitation to notice the structure and quiet beauty that winter reveals as the leaves fall away. We’d love to see what you find. Share your images with #TheSagePhotographyProject.
And when we plan future Sage Photography retreats and gatherings, community members will be the first to know.
Join us
If this calls to you, add your name to our community list and we’ll let you know when the next walk is scheduled.
Join the Sage Photography community here
We look forward to seeing with you!
