How Photography Helps Me Escape

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Hope you guys enjoyed my VO. I'm thinking of a new career as professional Voice Over artist 😂. Also, my calendar is now available to pre-order: bit.ly/2Kp2jYx

[@shahzebnasir4692]

Do you ship worldwide?

[@Ericbjohnston5150]

Non people photography gives me a chance to leave everyone and go find peace and quite. No photo, no problem. And with our type of photography the subject cannot complain about the image like a living model can and does.

[@shahzebnasir4692]

Also with the quality of your images, your calendar should easily be like twice the price!

[@gregorsnell]

Thomas Heaton Finally a British VO that doesn’t sound like David Attenborough.

[@clivesouffe5423]

Thomas Heaton definetly i enjoy it 👌👌

[@jonglass]

like the use of ambient sound instead of music.

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Thanks, it just made sense with this one.

[@zippywalker6406]

Agree.

[@philg6757]

I live on the coast in Oz,I go for a 5am morning walk everyday. People ask me why so early? It`s so quiet with only the sounds of the ocean and the wind in my ears. Great way to kick the day off.

[@TheArneSaknussemm]

I don't have a dog...my camera often serves the same function...I've been known to call "walkies" to my D810...and I might not even take a picture when I'm out...sometimes the D810 even stops off for a pint...

[@HenryPiffpaff]

Love your humor! :D

[@FranzFridl]

I do the same, I take my camera for a walk and I don't shot with it

[@masaytaka]

"...it's so calm, there's so much going around..." Perfect summary of being mindful in such a place :)

[@alltheshotsphotography1014]

Landscape photography is food for the soul. I love it, no good at it but love it. I'll never stop shooting for myself. The me time is absolutely priceless.

[@tales8855]

You inspire me, I'm not a professional photographer but going out with a camera, thinking of my next shot has made me explore places I would never have thought of exploring. I realized it wasn't only the perfect shot us photographers get at the end of the day. It's about experiencing those moments that are truly only unique to us giving us a sense of serenity.

[@georgehamzik8275]

I totally agree that photography is an escape. After 35 years of being a firefighter/paramedic with over 30,000 emergency calls, removing myself from the city has been a blessing. You are so right that just being there makes the weight fall off my shoulders. Thanks for sharing.

[@AsheshRajbansh]

This is the truth, photography helps us escape from every uncomfortable feelings we're suffering, just go our and do it. The best advice. Thank you so much for showing the way to live better.

[@5seadog]

Thomas absolutely NOT boring. This might in fact be my favorite of your vlogs. Know exactly how you feel. Living in the middle of the US I have no coast, but the Mississippi River calls. Most often you will find me on a Sunday afternoon sitting by the confluence of the Mississippi and Kaskaskia Rivers--helps me to mentally prepare for a new week by giving me time to just be and not worry about doing. Hanging a hammock and letting the breeze and water sing me to sleep for a short nap before trying to create a few images is the best way I know to bring peace into my life.

[@plazmacraft]

i think the photography is the best cure for mental health, plenty mindfulness and the calming effect especially in isolated landscape places where there's flowing water.

[@keithlinforth4585]

Love the coast, if its wild and remote even better, nothing refreshes the soul better than a few hours with crashing waves, smell of seaweed and the calls of the gulls to settle your thoughts to what is important in life....

[@chriseastty2874]

And this is why I love seascapes , working for the NHS in my role is stressful, getting out with the camera to the coast is so so relaxing and peaceful,

[@richardbixler5718]

Had to say Tom, I absolutely understand. I have a day job I have to work around, so I'm by no means a "professional" photographer, but I greatly enjoy pushing myself for better pictures and love the hobby because it does play right into something else I love. Being out there in a beautiful place, away from it all, soaking in the experience. No better medicine for the soul.

[@wcifapwtw]

Love the quiet, reflective honesty of this ‘slow’ video - so relatable and inspiring.

[@IANREA]

Couldn't agree more, I just like going out, looking, listening and appreciating what's around me. I take photos for pleasure, a challenge. It's good for the soul, and proven to help in ones health. Continue the good work

[@photosbykads9650]

Really feeling this one. Photography keeps me accountable. It promotes movement of my body, exploration, and creativity. Journals were always something that interested me, but I never could quite get into it. I realized 10 years ago that what really helped me document and remember little parts of my life and my day were the photos I took. I can look at a photo I took and remember exactly how I was feeling, what I was doing in my life, who I was with, etc. Landscape photography helps me in so many beautiful ways, and this video really helps me feel that today. Thank you.

[@MikeJamesMedia]

I do the same thing, here in Alaska. If I wanted to keep in shape by simply saying "I'm going to walk at least a couple of miles each day.", that wouldn't motivate me enough. But, strap a camera backpack on, and then I'll go out every day, whether it's hot, cold, rainy, snowy, or whatever. And while planning for great photos is important, I've also found some of my best ones by simply "being there", and bumping into a moose, an interesting sunset, time-lapse opportunity, or macro shot. As the saying goes, "Luck comes to those who are searching for something." And... the peace and quiet is indeed beautiful to experience. Your work shows all the benefits of these attitudes, and it's why I enjoy your work. Carry on, and have fun!

[@alancrossland3292]

Photography is the best therapy, my escape from the stress of work and daily life!

[@reganmccarthy8409]

I LOVE this video. The reason I enjoy your content so much is because you seem to get what landscape photography is all about. I talk to friends and family about it being my passion and they frankly don’t understand what it’s all about. It’s almost a spiritual experience, it’s just you and nature, it’s calming, it’s emotional, it’s beautiful. You see the small details in the world that I think the majority of people never see due to regular life. Since starting landscape photography my outlook on the world has completely changed. It’s my escape from regular life and the stresses of everyday work. It is just, simply... beautiful.

[@photografiaaustralis2131]

Time truly fly's when you enjoy doing what you're doing. Spot on Thomas. It clears the head and it's food for the soul. Greg

[@medwynroberts]

Totally agree with your sentiments about the summer months, roll on Autumn..shorter days, nice crisp light, perfect.

[@Mcguppy]

Thomas, I understand so well what you bring across in this video. Nine years ago had a very busy job, and I loved it, but I suddenly got taken away by a illness (neuro-sarcoidosis). I bought my first DSLR as an excuse to go out. Shooting landscapes and being out in nature, helped me keep sane and to put everything in perspective. It’s such a great way clear you head and really enjoy everything around you. I’m also lucky because I live on the coast. Thanks again, and looking forward to the calendar

[@willparsons32]

Always good to see what you're up to.. I think it's the salty air and the tranquility of being next to the sea that makes being there so relaxing. A place to definitely let your mind wonder and be at peace with yourself.

[@richardlangonne2964]

You are so right, Thomas. This is also what photography is about (for me massively!).

[@tobaldy]

Thomas, as a father of 3 with a full time job, photography is much more to me than just the image. There are times when I go on location and come home without a shot, but I don't find that time to be a waste. Instead, I look at it as an opportunity to better my craft, enjoy whatever location I am on, and recharge my batteries. Again, kudos of your honest and authenticity.

[@exploringsoutheastarizona2167]

Understand how you feel when you say photography helps you escape. I live in SE AZ. Love sitting in a chair by my car and watching the monsoon storms build, hearing the thunder and seeing the lightning. Also like exploring new areas backroads, dirtroads, mountains, desert, etc.....

[@marigrim312]

I don't live anywhere near ocean or mountains, so I love getting to see the peaceful gorgeous landscapes in your videos.

[@davidbruceod]

Thank you Thomas for waffling on! We all need to stop and think about why we do what we do. It is all to easy to chase ideals only to find out later some of those things we chased did not bring the richness to life like we thought they would.

[@smithcon]

@4:10 Yep, I realized long ago that although I let myself think I am working to improve my photography; it really is that the photography that is working to improve me.

[@johnjackson9601]

Hi Thomas, it's good to hear you struggle with your photography and life at time too. It my refuge from the daily grind and stress. Thanks for helping us stay focused.

[@quentinseidel]

That's the point ! Going outside and enjoy mother nature. I do it all the time to release the pressure. I really do appreciate your videos and your work in general. Keep doing what you like.

[@bringonthemonsters]

After a crazy day or if I'm feeling a bit stressed, you're videos have a calming affect on me. Thank you for that.

[@xiaomaophotography]

Hi Thomas, you're absolutely right to say "its not only for the image". when i go to our very natural coastline at the baltic sea i always come also to relax and enjoy nature. and i take my images without any pressure and all the time i need and have. so i like this image very much cause you give a very important fact - its not for the image - its for your own soul. please keep your great work and stay so real like you are! Greetings from northern germany

[@cytomatrix]

Use of ambient noise suits really well with the video. Serene and peaceful after last weeks crazy weather.

I feel some of the same, as I have been chronic sick with ME/CFS for the last 7 years. One of the only things that get me of the sofa and outdoors, is my camera. And when I'm lying flat on my sofa, your channel is one of few I love to follow. Thank you for your videos, keep up the good work!!

[@raiz3375]

I loved this vid no music blasting in no over narration just a simple talk the sounds of the location and some good old photography love the content keep it up!

[@Hugh1927]

We are so lucky to live so close to the Northumberland coastline. I am long overdue a visit to Rumbling Kern and this video has reminded me of what I have been missing.

[@analog_presencing]

Totally recognize that the photography motivates me to go to secluded places I would normally would not go and enjoy the sound of nature on my own.

[@PaulGJohnsonphotography]

Great video and was something I was going to do . I lost my dad yesterday pal and when things get on top of you enjoy your photography but most of all , enjoy your family and friends . Everything else is just wallpaper x peace xx

[@natasjakoole3601]

Paul G Johnson condolences on losing your father.

[@JohnHaswellPhotography]

Shit man, sorry to hear that. Hope you're ok

[@ThomasHeatonPhoto]

Sorry to hear that, Paul.

[@paultaylorphotography9499]

Sorry for your loss Paul

[@philipsmith4967]

condolences to you and all your family

[@philbraithwaite1316]

Loved it Thomas. I have much the same sentiments. Lost my job earlier this year and instead of embracing my enforced rest (after 29 years of graft) I've been worrying myself sick. My coastal photography has kept my head above water.

[@alex_nita]

Mister Heaton. You maybe don't realize how important are you for my journey in the photography world. Every time when I am not happy about my gear and locations and composition - I am starting to hate myself. A LOT. Then I came to your channel. Watch some videos. There are some particular videos that I rewatch but your entire channel is... is pure inspiration. I really do appreciate that you don't have titles and videos like "are DSRLs dead?" or "why mirrorless is important" or "switch from this to that". Thank you.

[@ashzhu3085]

Love this one! It is your personality, your style of life, and your ways of thoughts that make this channel really standing out among other photography channels on KZbin. Thank you Thomas!

[@geoffbutton3544]

Many thanks for showing us your 'quiet side', I am a hobby photographer, had a dslr for 3 years now and I can honestly say that your videos are a tremendous inspiration, guide and tutor all in one go. Please keep them coming, one day I might take an image as good as yours, many thanks again.

[@matthiasdietrich7761]

Hello Thomas, i really love this quiet video. It´s a pleasure to hear all the sound of the nature without distracting music.

[@ArnaudPecqueriePhotographie]

I agree with one of your comments. I would never see so much beauty of nature if I wasn’t outisde with my camera. Photography is good activity to relief the stress and appreciate area we are living. Not always needed to go far.

[@JelleBakkerMedia]

I feel you, I often get awai in to the woods with my camera and hammock. Just to unstressed and have a nice time at a calm place

[@PIXEL-cw1ko]

I love this video, it shows how you need to relax from time to time. I do it my self.

[@GeorgeLoch]

Really dig the style of this presentation, Thomas. The natural sounds, the b-roll that isn't just a transition, and the real talk. Very refreshing. Hear hear for camera-driven exploration!

[@davidburn9472]

Thanks for the Northumberland coast fix! Stuck at sea & feeling a bit homesick, wish I could head up to Howick to relax for a bit. Hopefully soon.

[@donniewhitaker6267]

I struggle in the summer too. I love shooting a sunset but don't like having to wait until 8:30 in the evening to do so which is one reason I do more sunrise than sunset during the summer months. Then here in the US where I live the beaches are crowded with tourist and about the only time you will kind or sort of get a spot to yourself is for sunrise in the morning but even then having a spot to yourself like you do in the video would be rare.

[@allandixon8105]

I can totally relate to that Thomas. I've got a favourite beach, with a favourite castle, that have been photographed thousands of times. A lot of times; it's not about the light, it's not about the picture: it's about standing on the beach listening to the waves.

[@DavidDrage]

I spent a week on the Northumberland coast in early July. It blew me away, it was awe inspiring. I will certainly be returning in the near future. As for your video, I think it is so important for us all to take time in the landscape to really appreciate our surroundings. It is good for everyones mental state to spend time just being there...

[@TubeKean]

Thank you for bringing us along and letting us feel this too. Just ambient sounds. It was perfectly calm and refreshing for me as a viewer as well

[@JoseJimenez-nr7tm]

Thomas, thank you for this inspiring video. Like you I have a passion for photography and use it as my mental therapy from my 40 hour plus work schedule. I do live about two hours from the coast and when I feel the need to get away I head for the shores or for the hills to decompress and regroup. This also allows me to time to take some pictures as well. Thank you for all you do and please keep your videos coming.

[@joelmspencer]

Exactly the same here Thomas, and a beautiful video. In December 2016 I went to shoot my first sunrise at the top of Mam Tor and it was the first time, as sad as it sounds, that I think I've ever watched the sun rise. It was an overwhelmingly beautiful moment, the feeling of seeing the sun rise above the horizon and the light hitting the land, with a beautiful side light in my composition, it's a feeling that gives me goosebumps just typing about it now. The feeling of connectivity to nature, and even the Universe in those magical moments can't really be described adequately with words, and the ability to photograph those moments is what makes photography so so special. It's my escape too, a few months ago I packed in 7 years of learning music, with no proper reward to show for it so that I could spend more time doing what I love the most - photography.

[@JohnHaswellPhotography]

I need to do that piece of beach myself with the scar and the fence to nowhere. I love seeing your local videos. Reminds me of your older stuff

[@douglasladowski6342]

Thomas your ability to clearly communicate your thoughts and ideas makes me look forward to the next video regardless of topic.

[@rvboondocker2559]

Totally true! I struggle to get up at 2am for astrophotography but once I’m out there it’s hard to go home! Peacefully beautiful serenity...

[@DanielRWomack]

I grew up taking summer camping trips along the Northern California coast with my Dad. The feeling I got watching this video reminded me of those trips and I realize how much I miss it. Life is good in surroundings like this. Thank you, Thomas!

[@cziko1989]

Your channel is literally the only one on KZbin I receive notifications from. You're such an inspiration! Keep up the good work, you are the best. Greetings from Berlin

[@tracyreaves8839]

Although have been watching your videos for a long time, this is the first time I wanted to comment. Thank you! I am also in the process of packing up a house, scaling down and about to enter a life of travel with my husband and the stress is starting to wear us both down. So tonight I will head to the beach with my camera and just enjoy being outside, getting good images or not, and remember why I love photography.

[@PMCN53]

A dramatic change to the last episode in the storm! I agree, just going out to the coast, looking, listening to the gentle wave movement is good for the sole. Loved last years calendar and now looking forward to the 2019. Moving is never fun, hope to goes well and to plan, Cheers!

[@MikeJones-eo8qz]

This is the most enjoyable video of yours that I've seen in a while. Pure Thomas Heaton out in nature doing what he loves and talking to the viewer in an attempt to convey the mood. Wonderful stuff.

[@peterosborne9802]

I like a quiet time myself, and i agree photography helps me chill out. Even if i do end up deleting most of it theres always one or two that are alright or better and thats a good feeling when that happens, spontaneous snapping i call it, dont think of landscape street or events just carry your camera bag and see what happens. Nice to know im not the only one who does this. Enjoy.

[@luismaxb]

This video pretty much summed up my evening today, I was having a stressful week and decided to bike to the coast to shoot some photos... didn't get any good image but it didn't matter because as you said in the video it completely refreshed me and helped me escape for a while. Very good content as always Thomas!

[@zvenzzon00]

What a nice location! Just the thought about how the sea has moved all those rocks back and forth for thousands and thousands of years, by everyday weather and countless number of storms to the grade that all loose rocks have been polished to it's round shapes and the cliffs has become so soft in it's shape. Gives some perspective of time. It's mindblowing...

[@ursulavanderriet7011]

I really enjoyed your video...so peaceful and calm at the seaside. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us. All the best with the move!

[@robcarr1899]

Lovely shots Tom. I find that having a stressful week driving buses around Manchester i take my camera out for a walk is so calming. I go to my caravan in wales and chill for a couple of days with Mr Canon. So peaceful.

[@HarneyPhoto]

Know exactly what you mean. I feel the same when I jump into the ocean with my camera for sunrise and sunsets. Just bobbing around in the waves is healing and calming. I can enter the water with physical pains and the moment I'm in the pain have gone. Suffering severe depression and anxiety all my life (50+ years), the ocean and camera are my saviour, literally. it'sd at that point you are one with your environment and camera

[@johncampbell335]

Photography is a great tool for coping with depression. Every day, I set out to find just one beautiful thing. Even if it's just a dandelion growing through a crack in the sidewalk. Cheers.

[@erinwiebe7026]

Thomas, you are so fortunate to live in an area with so much natural beauty to escape to!

[@LWOOBReggie]

Last week I had an interesting experience I want to share with you. I wanted to go hiking in the middle of the night to shoot the sunrise at 5am. I REALLY wanted to push myself to get up so early and do the hard work to get a nice photo. However, my anxiety stopped me and I felt super bad the day after when I didn't go. I think this experience reminded me of how important it is for photography to be enjoyable. Maybe I should've pushed myself, do the dirty work, if I wanted to be professional. But thats not really a goal for me. Photography is fun, relaxing and stimulating in itself. I almost forgot that the other day when I almost did something I really didn't want to do. Keep up the good work Tom, and thanks for reminding us all about the peace and happiness photography brings us!

[@diyatrandom1217]

Tom, you are great at what you do. This video is so true as well. I actually work for a water department, but in my free time i love photography. My method is a bit different, and i live in the us by the southern end lake michigan, but the forests have the same effect as the coast does for you Tom. It relaxes me taking a stroll through the woods with a camera.

[@jesse113553]

This reminds me of “the sound of landscape photography” video. It’s quiet beautiful.

[@LukeypJ]

I could watch this video with only the sounds of the sea and still be inspired. Love it!

[@larryselvidge901]

We were so relaxed after this. Thank you for the reminder that the camera can just be the excuse we need to get away.

[@LeRoiTV]

Thanks Thomas for all your amazing work, this video is one of the most relatable things i've seen in a while. I'm also learning so much about composition, simplicity and loads of other stuff from just watching your channel. Calendar has been pre-ordered!

[@jpvankranenburg8339]

I also recognize that in myself, I regularly leave the city because the pressure in me. Amazing video again!

[@therightfoot81]

Great video. I've lost the urge for getting out lately and when that happens, I just watch good ole Tom Heaton, then my bag is packed and I'm off. Such an inspirational chap. Cheers Tom.

[@ScottBohaty]

I really liked the easy going pace and relaxed nature of this video. I think one of your best.

[@anildamodaran]

You really took your time with this video calmly setting up compositions and talking through the scenes. Loved it. Thanks Thomas!

[@markhyde1970]

Nature has its own pace but everything still gets done.

[@joe.burdett]

July, August, September are also great for milkyway and astro photography. Being out gazing up at the stars on a clear night for me is just as calming as being by the sea. Give it a go !

[@JoDaniels]

I very much enjoyed this video. I realy like the way you emphasized to take the best out of the places/ moments where your camera leads you to. For me that is the best way to have photpgrapy being a part of your lifestyle! Thanks for this Video Thomas

[@Yamanotefy]

Great tranquil (and therefore refreshing) episode, where nature gives you sound and views. I remember, last year you also said, that in August you always feel the blues but photography keeps you moving on your mind and on your feet! Cheers Thomas!

[@simonbarnes7124]

I went through a very dark time in my life last October. It wasn’t until April that I was able to pick up a camera and get back out there. I had to become a carer for my wife for 7 months to help her back to recovery. The new lens I had bought a week before my wife was taken ill had to spend 7 months sat in my camera bag before I could use it. As you say Thomas, it’s about being there, absorbing the tranquility of a scene even if you don’t get the shot. It feeds the soul if you know what I mean. I like the solitude landscape photography brings me. It recharges my batteries. Good luck with the move.

[@ProjektSixten]

I appreciate all of your content but this, to me, resonates in a certain way. I like this 'slow' video and also that you speak openly about stress and your way of dealing with it. Can only imagine how stressful a combination it can be being self employed and moving house and what not, thanks for sharing.

[@ItsaCampingThing]

Your words here echoed how I feel about landscape photography. It’s a reason to get away from it all. To refocus the mind on the location, composition and settings. The untouched natural beauty that we try to capture the essence of with a camera. I know it helped me in difficult times before. I don’t think I would have visited anywhere near the places I have without a camera.

[@MichaelKire]

Your videos are always hugely appreciated Thomas. I too sometimes use landscape photographing as an excuse to get out and away and to relax from my otherwise quite busy schedule. Keep it up!

[@thomasphillips5850]

I really enjoy the coastline myself. The patterns in the sand,the lighting on the rocks and best of all the setting or rising sun on the water. This is coming to you from down east the coastline of Maine.U.S.A. Keep up the good work.

[@matsfotografi]

I really liked this video! The low pace and tranquility is what I'm after when I do landscape (or seascape) photography, If I push to hard it shows in the pictures I make.

[@weschilton]

Yeah, very nice lovely evening. We all need a break from the stress of day-to-day life and to get back in touch with nature.

[@thomasss7612]

I find it funny , you struggle with all being green in summer but I live in Spain and I get really excited when it rains and everything gets green and little rivers flows , I find that really inspiring . Great vid from Spain ,Thomas.

[@davebrown2047]

Thank you for a great video, I can really relate to it, I'm a full time carer for my disabled wife, I use photography as my stress relief, although living in the middle of a council estate near Mansfield Notts I'm finding that I'm travelling anything up to an hour to anywhere worth photographing, even then I'm only managing 1 night or morning a week due to my duties looking after the good lady, love watching your video's and am learning so much from them,

[@davidaylsworth8964]

Agreed with all your away time points. It’s a therapeutic escape. I’d like to recommend the Induro BHM2S ballhead to you. I’ve been using mine for the past two years in all conditions.

[@dan.p.8060]

Couldn't agree more. I know if I were not shooting landscapes I would certainly not be going out to beautiful wild places, at least not nearly as often. I liked the chill, quiet mood of this video. It allowed me to feel like I was there with you when hearing the birds, waves crashing etc. Lovely videos, keep at it!

[@videnteglobal]

Very enjoyable video, I am in my late sixties and can still relate to what you say about the relaxing effect of photography in this environment.

[@sirmulberry1327]

The quality of your audio is ABSOLUTELY STUNNING in this one! Your videos have always been excellent, but I can hear a marked improvement for audio. Thanks for everything you do!

[@ricki91you]

Just LOVE this video, love what you can convey to me. I just watch and learn, learn, learn..