Photography is my lifeline. Without it, I probably wouldn't be here

[@ledesclos5321]

Your outook is correct. May you find the peace and fulfillment without dependence. Your photography does not suffer for the depression. You stay focused and teach well.

[@AndyBanner]

Often, humans seem more creative when dealing with awful things. Thanks for your support as ever.

[@donjagoe]

The commenters are correct-you are not alone at all. There is a small army of us out here, with similar interests, motivations and indeed, concerns. Stay strong in the knowledge that you are doing sumptuous work and your videos are genuinely looked forward to. Peace.

[@warwickwinterbach6072]

I am holding your virtual hand Andrew......you helping some of us out here and you need to know, youre holding our hand. Strongz ❤

[@AndyBanner]

I appreciate that. Thank you, Warwick.

[@AntonyBall-h9g]

Hi Andrew I find photography as helped me so much over the years with my own depression moods etc I love the woods mushrooms etc you just reminded me of days out in the past with a camera which I should do more myself I pray to Jesus for you and hope your alright buddy it can be difficult at times I know your video was inspiring for me to get out there.......Tony

[@trevorfentiman5283]

Another very constructive and thought provoking video, thinking of you

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you.

[@brxee]

May the light soon return Andrew. In the meantime time keep consuming mother natures tonics, she knows best. Lovely photos.

[@Nnnuuk]

Lovely images. I remember being told a long time ago that life will never present us with anything that we can't overcome, no matter how bleak the situation looks at the time. Also that our problems come when we are trying to achieve a goal that we are not meant too. A hobby is incredibly important in helping us get through life, and getting out and about with a camera is one of the best, as is philosophy.

[@AndyBanner]

An interesting way of looking at a problem... I have a lot to learn.

[@nickwilliams1953]

Any day out in the countryside with a camera is going to be a good day. Keep looking forwards.

[@AndyBanner]

Looking forwards is no better than looking back at the moment. Appreciate the sentiment though. Cheers.

[@jeremyhalls9586]

Dragonfly sounds like a male Southern Hawker (Aeshna cyanea) from your description Andy.

[@AndyBanner]

I used to know a few dragonfly models, but whatever knowledge we rarely use gets lost.

[@swanseamale47]

Nice video mate. My thoughts are with you.

[@hartsphotography]

No matter how low you may be feeling I hope you take some comfort in the joy and inspiration you bring to some many others. Please keep up the great work I enjoy my Saturday night dose of your wonderful photography.

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you. Yes, it's nice to read all the comments. Andy

[@robertmeyerson1618]

Photo therapy always works for me. Helps me to refocus and recharge. Thanks for videos and your insights.

[@AndyBanner]

You're welcome

[@APlayerinVR]

Hi Andrew. I wish I could walk with you in the forest/woodland/plantation and try to take beautiful photos while talking about that strange, damn thing called life. Just listening to what bothers you, and have someone to listen to what bothers me. And maybe find a cool mushroom or an interesting stick to photograph. Can you believe, I have never, ever in my my life been in a forest? It is simply not something that is in abundance where I live. I see people like you take your cameras into beautiful, vast forests, and you inspire me and I take my camera and I go into my garden with just two trees and I stealthily search for inevitably nonexistent fauna and flora to photograph. Can you imagine, a dude with a camera, trying to experience a forest's photographic opportunities while having, basically, just a moved lawn under his feet. Anyway. You don't know me, I am just some forestless guy from somewhere in the world, but know that I listen and I hear you. I share great sadness, and no, time does not heal. But we continue. Because it is better than the alternative. It really is. And things change. We feel bad sometimes, we feel depressed. But that, too, passes. Ultimately the sadness never goes away completely. But, we manage. If you have a pet that you love and care for, then you are needed, and you need to continue. Or if your youtube videos can still cause someone to write a multiple paragraph response to try and make you feel better, then you are needed. Or if you can take a photograph and someone can say "DAMN!" (in a good way, not a Picasso way :), then you are needed. I have subscribed.

[@goranritterfeldt2608]

The geranium picture in all it’s gentleness was my favorite. But more important. Every time I see that you have posted a new video I am glad and always look at it just before I go to bed. Because it is always Instructing, inspirational and also give me a good perspective of what the life is about. I feel hardly about the problems you mentioned now and then. Understand that it has to do with the problems you had in the passed. And if there is a problem to get in contact with the person/persons I just wish that they could see and listen to your intro of this video… As always keep doing what you doing. That helps many of us. So good night and as always, take care Göran in Latvia

[@Wolf-6567]

Hello Andrew, beautiful photos as always. I love how you see so many things that many ignore, and how you explain this in a way that is very accessable. I know your path for depression my friend, I have walked this path to, you have friends and support and we all wish you well. Keep getting out, take your amazing photos and create Andrew we need your viewpoint in the discussion of art, and as a genuine person. Having some kind of structure, some kind of a need to go out.... these are really imortant, and really helped me at the time. Seeing the small and the beauty within have stayed with me, it helps me see the world differently and helps me create. Depression nearly put me out the window, that's not just said for here, I truly mean it. I'm on the otherside as it were, some dark days come back occaisionally like a rainy day but I feel like I have prevailed . My photography changed a lot. Keep going along, pick small achievable goals, a small routine, track your progress- you're not going to be a winner everyday, some will be down, but keep a list..I did, three positive things in a day - its an awesome day only one or a negative score.... well tomorrow is another day, and Monday is a whole new week. You need time to heal, you'll get there. When I get back to the UK, I will love to look you up. We can have a walk and a chat, some photos and maybbe a pub lunch. Have a great day Andrew.

[@stephendutch1760]

Fabulous photos as always Andrew.

[@AndyBanner]

Many thanks!

[@nigelthomas6813]

Take care Andrew, thank you so sharing 👍

[@AndyBanner]

Thanks, Nigel.

[@cliveturner6702]

I'm sorry for your obvious pain at this time Andrew, hope all ends well for you. As always a really interesting video with some wonderful images 👍

[@SeaAngMo23]

Wow, so beautifully human you are. I can appreciate your situation. I am an old seaman, and ship life is a cold and lonely life. I also am rekindling my friendship with my camera. you stay strong and don't neglect your emotional health. I'm cheering for you!

[@LabyrinthMiniMovies]

Nice video Andrew!

[@AndyBanner]

Hey, Thanks. Might catch up with you some time.

[@LabyrinthMiniMovies]

@@AndyBanner absolutely

[@simonpayne7994]

I really do like the bark shots Andrew has taken. The macro at 8:16 is very nice too. He found quite a few compositions worth having a go at and his video reminds me to get out into the nearby woods again and concentrate a bit more on details. Andrew gave us a good piece of advice too. * Sitting with your "bottom" in the leaves ... ( Exclusively for US readers present here, Brits please kindly look the other way: * Sitting with your "fanny".in the leaves ... ) ... is definitely better than sitting on the sofa watching TV. My feeble attempt to cheer Andrew up a little. 😊

[@AndyBanner]

Any attempt is valuable, Simon. Thanks.

[@Ricalex67]

I really feel for you Andrew and am wishing for you to come through this. Having unanswered questions to the horrible childhood I had still gets to me, it’ll never leave me, but time has shown me that I can live with it. It took years to learn that it wasn’t my fault and I have to be content with that even though the flashbacks I can have ( nightmares)are often horrendous. Your videos are bringing happiness to a lot of people out there, and even though all you see is a camera when making videos, it represents many people standing at your side ( I’m not very good at writing my thoughts so hope that makes sense). Already looking forward to the next video fella !

[@laplu1955]

Love your videos Andy, I wish I lived nearer would love to meet you and give you support. You are lovely soul and I send you love and healing Lyn x

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you.

[@eltinjones4542]

You can only deal with your depression your way, so keep up what you're doing and accept it. You'll be fine Lovely photos 👍📷👍

[@sophsaund304]

Oh bless you for being so open, so sorry ❤

[@AndyBanner]

ty

[@thelawonphotography]

You are not alone Andrew…. Life deals us a hand, it’s how you play it, sometimes a bad hand can make us question our life’s decisions, sometimes it intrigues us and pushes us through the depression, other times it gives us the most amazing positive energy and experience. If we stop and absorb the beauty of nature we connect with our thoughts and emotions….. photography has been a fantastic crutch in my life and I am grateful for it, I am sure your resolve and attitude will push you into a better mindset…… you are not in this alone…….💯🙏🏻

[@RicardoSantos-zh5uz]

I Andy. In my humble view, it takes an above average sensitivity to the world around you to see and photograph like you do. I often find that that same sensitivity makes us more vulnerable. It's a thin line between seeing beauty and chaos. I'm glad that you find an escape in photography and that it keeps you going. Keep up with the great work and for continuing to inspire a lot of us out here. Cheers!

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you, Ricardo.

[@Revup1]

Andrew, we love you. Stay safe. I have to disagree though, I do enjoy sitting on my backside....watching your videos. I even enjoyed the dragonfly bit. Time numbs, probably, but its also possible to grow and recover from the past. I can only speak from my own experience, but finding forgiveness, forgiving myself and others, was a massive step for me.

[@AndyBanner]

It's difficult. My problem is that our situation is unjust. Blame is entirely directed at me whilst those who direct it appear to refuse to have any introspection whatsoever. I am accused of something that didn't even happen for instance and the collateral damage is colossal but seemingly acceptable for those causing it.

[@Revup1]

@@AndyBanner I'm a veteran. For me it was about watching those I served with loose their lives, limbs and mental ability and living with it afterwards. I had to forgive myself for not being up to the task, and forgive the people whose decisions put us in those situations (some I've never met). I know that is entirely different, my sense of betrayal is shared, there are others who talk to me, and I talk to them. Its much less personal and isolating. So, I feel your pain, especially since it comes from those you love and want to still love. Forgiveness is not easy, the most difficult part of it is letting go of your right to justice, not making justice part of the outcome (it may happen it may not). What is great about you is that you are still creating and seeing beauty in the world around you, you haven't lost your hope, its still there. keep it up, you are brilliant.

[@saalikreynolds3064]

Another enjoyable video, Andy. I hope things look better for you, soon. I do have an idea of what you are going through.

[@AndyBanner]

Thanks. They will only look better when those that refuse to converse open their hearts and minds.

[@ericlundquist3466]

Thank you for sharing, Andrew. You're a good soul, and im glad you're here. Even though you keep flexing with that cool hat . Edit; i did buy one similar to that hat. It really does make a difference. Edit2: the secret to Dragonflys i find is if they nesstle on a plant, and get spooked they will fly back to that exact same spot . Thars when you take the photo. Sometimes thats the case.

[@AndyBanner]

You see, I am a trendsetter.... 25 years ago, I was walking besides the River Ouse in Cambridgeshire and there was the sound of a distant chain saw. But actually it was hundreds (and I mean lots and lots) of Dragonflies in a tree ahead of me. It was unbelievable. The tree was alive with these dinosaurs and I have no idea why. I don't have the patience to do wildlife photography. I guess if I could haul my backside out of bed early enough, I could do some insect photography whilst they're still conserving their energy in the overnight chill - but I can't see that happening either... :-)

[@ericlundquist3466]

@@AndyBanner dragonflys go further back than even the dinosaurs to their ancestors in the Paleozoic era. I'm glad those are not flying about though 😅. I understand not wanting to get up at 5am to start nature photography. I'm the same exact way, and normally stuck doing macro during harsh light / active bug times. I've been trying to change all that though. I contribute it all to lack of exercise and no drive these days, so I've been forcing myself into body/health transformation. I have a long way to go to get back to pre-covid health when I was actually fit and disciplined to enjoy getting out. Pretty much have to tell yourself "right. I'm done feeling like this , f it, I'm doing it for myself " and that's that.

[@toine1915]

Nice photos, Andy. Macro and close-ups always produce nice images. That purple flower is really beautiful. The focus stacking in your camera works really well, friend. And the forest is an environment for close-up and macro work for me. I rarely see large compositions in the forest. But that's my fault and not the forest. I think it's a shame that you feel so bad. I hope you can figure it out, friend. Antoine.

[@AndyBanner]

Woodland images are rarely easy. Making sense from a tangled mess is hard enough in 3D, but in a 2D static image, it's a real skill that needs a lot of practice. I mentioned "low-hanging-fruit" in another video recently and I guess that, for me, finding the intimate images is easier. It's not necessarily conducive to improvement though.

[@DaveEP]

I feel sad for you Andrew, and wish there were something we could all do, but realise that this video was inspiring on a day I was feeling uninspired, so thank you!

[@AndyBanner]

Thanks, Dave.

[@uncle0eric]

I also use photography as a sort of therapy. I think this is actually extremely common. Finding beauty and interest through photography is a way of finding loci of positivity. And research shows that spending time outdoors in nature can be as effective as antidepressants.

[@AndyBanner]

Being focused on something that's not killing me inside is useful and if I am being creative (indoors or out) then I can get through. Hope you're well.

[@mikeg2916]

I can definitely understand how you feel. I hope you are able to work through the emotions you are feeling. It's difficult to talk to people who don't listen, just give advice. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. ❤

[@AndyBanner]

It's not that they won't listen, they won't engage at all. Listening is way down the line.

[@angelathomas2117]

I love watching your videos keep doing them as they help me and other people as well. I hope you and Nicky a ok Take care of yourself 😊

[@johnchipperfield3367]

Great content as usual, depression is awful, I know I've been there, people don't understand what it's like that haven't gone through it, keep on pushing through, yes it's easy said than done, mate.

[@AndyBanner]

There's little or no support either.... Dunno how I have made it this far.

[@ggwildlife]

Your photography as always Andrew is exceptional and the explanations as to why is brilliant, i was just charging the batteries for the Olympus EM1 mkIII with 60mm macro when i saw you uploaded a new video, now i have my inspiration for tomorrow over my local nature reserve, thank you and god bless.

[@AndyBanner]

Thanks for your support - Hope you get some amazing images

[@ellenstoune8937]

Sending you all the love and strength. I think many of us artists can say that art, in whatever way it is created, has saved us more than once. And I am so glad I discovered your channel. I always come away from one of your videos having a new perspective and certainly inspiration. Plus there's you sense of humor which is always a delight.

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you so much! Not sure about the sense of humor (hoomer as pronounced in Norfolk dialect). :-)

[@timday]

I discovered your channel recently and really enjoy your thoughtful and intellectual approach, a true breath of fresh air. I trust you are feeling better now and I’m looking forward to watching more of your content.

[@AndyBanner]

Hi, Tim. Thanks for the support. My depression eases and worsens with regularity. I am rarely in a good space, but keep plodding and making images and videos. Take care. Andy

[@scottcosta7119]

Always here to listen to you, Andy. The photography is calming, creative, inspirational. And your presence enjoyable. Be well! ✌

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you, Scott. It's a shame my daughter's don't agree...

[@scottcosta7119]

@@AndyBanner Oh my. A shame indeed. I have a 10 year old daughter and we're constantly challenged by the balance of the push, pull, give and take as parents. Best wishes you all! Oh!! Please find some cheer in your own video of ICM and the exercise and dance moves you were doing ! I loved it ! ✌

[@sophsaund304]

also lovely macro shots, they have an under the sea quality to them!!

[@AndyBanner]

Yes, those real-close moss images could easily be underwater. I thought that too.

[@kevinbull6597]

Thanks for sharing Andrew. Stay strong.

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you, I will, hopefully.

[@agarriga]

Wonderful video, Andrew. I especially love the flower shot! Take care of yourself. Keep shooting. You are inspiring.

[@AndyBanner]

Thanks

[@agarriga]

@@AndyBanner You’re welcome

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

who knew watching a man watching a dragonfly could be so entertaining...

[@AndyBanner]

Not me, but then again, I knew what happened.... :-)

[@matprokowski]

Thank you, lots of strength, thoughts with you... And once again thank you for inspiration

[@AndyBanner]

You are so welcome

[@generalbeaker7515]

Time numbs. Love your photography and your teachings. Keep yourself strong and safe.

[@AndyBanner]

Numbs indeed. My mother passed over half a lifetime ago, but it still hurts. It's not an everyday thought any longer, but that took years. The pain of losing my family again is unbearable and all for a lie... (not mine).

[@generalbeaker7515]

My goto places for wellbeing are High Ash Farm and Bowthorpe Marsh.

[@laurielphotography1118]

Sorry your heart is hurting right now, Amdy. Sending good vibs of strength and inner peace your way. Ps. love all the captures in this video. You are an inspiration...even in what seems like your darkest hour. Be well~

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you. Hope you're doing well.

[@laurielphotography1118]

@@AndyBanner All is well here, Andy. Thank you!

[@glennseeary2819]

Great video Andrew from Melbourne, Australia. You are the guru of ICM for my camera club.

[@AndyBanner]

I'm just lucky with ICM. The master is Andy Gray. Check him out.

[@brendamilstein1062]

Thank goodness for photography I say, it gives so much pleasure, gets one out and focuses ones mind on nature and the beauty of simple uncomplicated things. Love your photos and the videos you make keep going you are appreciated.

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you.

[@frazerchapman7044]

Great video stay strong

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you

[@a.beckwith4576]

Thank you Andrew great video, sending a big hug and if I could I would hold your hand and walk with you. 😘

[@AndyBanner]

thank you.

[@dingo3718]

I feel your pain ,, depression is a silent killer you can have a line of people outside your front door and tell them all your issues,,it will deflect it for a while, but comes back with vengeance, I myself have taken up photography away from the crowds and get lost in the silence, it's so exhausting putting on a happy face while inside your dark soul is on a path of destruction, so when people say they understand truth is they can't and don't, every day is a struggle.i know this first hand and all the meds can only suppress it for so long, your images are great video is too, keep it up and it's almost macro season, take care.

[@AndyBanner]

Absolutely. I need to try and forget these problems, but as much as my children want to and have cut me off, I still love them and the pain of that is unbearable sometimes.

[@dingo3718]

@@AndyBanner know exactly how you feel.

[@daveeagle1559]

Hi Andrew, just stumbled across your channel, hugely enjoying the style and the content. Stay strong.

[@AndyBanner]

Thank you, Dave.

[@Arripa-777]

👍🏼💚🧡💚

[@christopherharrison3597]

Andrew , on a recent trip Whilst trying to shoot sea otters I looked at the sea wall and noticed a rusty chain hanging . Normally I would have ignored this but your constant inspiration I find on your channel made me frame it and shoot it. I now plan to print it and frame it. So thankyou Andy for simply being here helping so so many people 🙏

[@AndyBanner]

That's wonderful, Christopher. Thanks for putting a smile on my face.

[@duncanrae7504]

Photography is a great distraction , maybe you could offer tutorials to local amateur photographers ?

[@AndyBanner]

If only my anxiety and associated issues could allow this...

[@iaincphotography6051]

Take care, still the chatter of your mind.

[@SpudUna]

Nobody knows what it’s like to suffer from depression if they don’t suffer themselves. Well I’ve not met anyone. Compassionate yes, but they still don’t know. 26 years for me. Under control mostly. Replaced with impatience and or anger issues. I have a cannabis prescription. It definitely helped.

[@AndyBanner]

I think I get you, Spud.

[@scotskinner4350]

Because of my camera I go places and see things that I wouldn't have gone to or seen otherwise. I couldn't have been bothered. I'd have rather stayed at home in my comfortable space.

[@AndyBanner]

Yeah, for sure. If I didn't have this KZbin Channel, I would only leave the house when I had no other option.

[@jrgenwitved816]

❤🌹❤

[@DominikMarczuk]

Dear Lord, Andy, what's wrong with your camera's grip??? It looks like a bear's gnawed on it!

[@AndyBanner]

I fire that shutter about 120,000 times a year, I think it's doing quite well... Mind you, the camera is beginning to show more than just one or two signs of weariness - yesterday, the LCD screen started playing up. I need to save up for a replacement I think.

[@DominikMarczuk]

@@AndyBanner Get MPB to sponsor you. Also, 120k, wow. That's so much more than what I shoot.

[@AndyBanner]

MPB has been kind in the past when I reached out - maybe I will again.