Experiments in Looking - Abney Park Cemetery


Details
Join us for a mindful photography walk! This isn't just another photography meetup - it's an invitation to slow down, get curious and notice with fresh eyes.
What to Expect
We will be using playful prompt cards to heighten our awareness and experiment with ways of looking. Our cameras become the perfect sidekicks. The beauty of doing this as a group is that we can inspire each other to look in fresh new ways. We focus on different themes each time we meet โ this time will be about noticing the web of life.
Location:
Abney Park is a cemetery for the adventurous sort who likes to step off the beaten path. Despite the grand Egyptian revival entrance and the Gothic chapel in the centre, Abney Park feels truly wild in parts. It was founded in 1840 as a non-denominational resting place and became Londonโs foremost burial ground for Dissenters, or those who practised their religion outside of the established church. It maintains an air of rebellion even now, with tiny winding routes leading to dead ends, haphazardly-placed monuments, and graves so weathered that the names are illegible. Itโs an inspiring place for a walk
Vibe:
- Notice your own attentional biases
- Practice beginner's mind in what you see
- Work with three experiment cards
- Create images and push your boudaries
- Be inspired by others
Everyone is welcome:
- Beginners, experienced pros - all are welcome.
- You can walk a little or a lot: we start and finish in the same place.
- No technical expertise required - this is about the mindful process, not perfect pictures.
Equipment:
- Camera or smartphone
- Fully charged battery and spare if possible
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Small plastic bag to sit or kneel on
- Tripods not needed
- Water bottle and light snacks
Your Guide
Menka Sanghvi is the creator of Just Looking: a project to celebrate slowness and curiosity in the everyday. She is an experienced photographer and facilitator and, since 2017, has been hosting mindful photography walks and workshops.
What about the weather?
The walk goes ahead rain or shine, unless there are severe weather warnings. (Blue skies are boring, anyway!)
โHow to find each other?
A phone number will be sent to all ahead of event, for emergencies.
*Most importantly - Please be on time as it can be hard to find each other once the walk starts.
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Experiments in Looking - Abney Park Cemetery