Therapeutic Photography

Therapeutic photography means taking, choosing and reflecting on photographs for personal expression and connection. You can try it with a phone or photos you already have.

This guide is for individuals, teachers and community facilitators. Start with five free photography activities.

By Dre Erwin, RN(AAP), photographer and founder of the Pinehouse Photography Club. I no longer lead the club; I currently work as a nurse in Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan.

Girl lying in grass, taking and examining photos on a camera, engaging in therapeutic phot

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Portrait of a youth with long brown hair looking toward the camera.

A youth in a grey hoodie and green trousers with a camera on a neck strap.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth wearing a knitted hood.

A youth in a dark hoodie standing beside the lake.

Black-and-white portrait of a photographer in a cap holding a DSLR camera.

Black-and-white portrait of Dre Erwin wearing a baseball cap.

A youth making a peace sign beside their face.

A youth in a blue hoodie holding a camera up to photograph an open field.

A smiling youth wearing a dark jacket with a yellow collar.

Black-and-white portrait of a person covering their face with both hands.

A young photographer aiming a DSLR toward the viewer in black and white.

A youth holding a small puppy close to their face.

Close-up of a youth holding a Nikon camera with a green reflection in the lens.

Side view of a young photographer raising a camera outdoors.

A youth looking down at the controls on a DSLR camera.

Close-up portrait of a youth looking directly toward the camera.

A youth in a dark photography club jacket holding a camera beside the water.

A youth in a red hoodie photographing toward the viewer.

A youth making a playful expression against a dark background.

Black-and-white side portrait of a youth looking into the distance.

Close-up portrait of a youth wearing a baseball cap.

Two young photographers examining the controls on a DSLR camera in black and white.

A youth in a light hoodie aiming a DSLR camera outdoors.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth wearing a light-coloured hoodie.

A person seen from behind beneath green northern lights beside a lake.

A youth holding a DSLR camera toward the viewer during an outdoor outing.

Black-and-white photograph of a youth holding a trophy.

A speaker in glasses and a cap with an infinity symbol speaking into a microphone.

A man in sunglasses holding a baseball glove outdoors in a black-and-white photo.

Black-and-white portrait of a smiling woman wearing earrings.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of a smiling man.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with dark hair and a slight smile.

A youth wearing a baseball cap while seated inside a vehicle.

A youth with long hair standing outdoors beside green woodland.

A young photographer standing on an outdoor path in a black-and-white photo.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth making peace signs with both hands.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth holding a camera near their face.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with long hair wearing a dark hoodie.

A young photographer looking through a DSLR viewfinder among trees in black and white.

Black-and-white portrait of a man wearing a cap outdoors.

Black-and-white close-up of an older man wearing a baseball cap.

Silhouette of a photographer with a camera against a golden sunset.

A young photographer with long hair holding a DSLR toward the viewer.

Portrait of a small child with dark hair wearing a light purple shirt.

An older man in a cap seated beside a large wooden panel in a black-and-white photo.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of an older woman wearing earrings.

A smiling youth in a blue top against a dark portrait background.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth in glasses and a photography club shirt.

Black-and-white portrait of a smiling older woman wearing glasses.

A youth and an adult posing close together in a black-and-white outdoor portrait.

Black-and-white portrait of a smiling youth with long hair.

Black-and-white outdoor portrait of a smiling youth with windswept hair.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with side-swept hair.

Black-and-white side portrait of a young person in a baseball-style shirt.

A youth posing with a white feather boa in a black-and-white portrait.

A young photographer holding a camera beside a calm lake and green mountains.

Black-and-white close-up of a baby looking toward the camera.

Black-and-white portrait of an older woman wearing a patterned headscarf.

A youth wearing a dark hood against a black portrait background.

A young photographer holding a DSLR up to their face beside green woodland.

Black-and-white portrait of an older woman wearing glasses.

A youth in a patterned hood looking down at a camera.

A young man in a white photography club shirt holding a camera in a black-and-white photo.

A youth in a red hoodie holding a DSLR up to their face.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with glasses and long hair.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of a young child with short hair.

Photography club members posing together beside the club bus in black and white.

Two friends laughing together, one wearing sunglasses, in a black-and-white photo.

A person in a pink hoodie beside the water in warm evening light.

Two older men posing side by side, one wearing a baseball cap, in black and white.

A youth holding a camera with its screen turned outward in an autumn forest.

Colour portrait of a smiling youth with long dark hair against a dark background.

Black-and-white portrait of Dre Erwin wearing a New York Yankees cap.

A photographer in a light baseball cap crouching among autumn trees.

Black-and-white side view of a photographer with glasses taking a picture among trees.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth wearing glasses with their head tilted.

A youth wearing a white hood and dark winter jacket in a snowy outdoor setting.

A young photographer aiming a camera outdoors in a black-and-white photo.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of a smiling young child.

A photographer in sunglasses holding a camera in a snowy black-and-white scene.

A smiling youth wearing glasses and holding a small puppy.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth holding a camera against a dark background.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of a smiling youth with long hair.

A youth wearing a camera neck strap in a black-and-white portrait.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth wearing a backwards baseball cap.

Colour portrait of a youth with short dark hair wearing a teal top.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth wearing a photography club shirt and camera strap.

A youth with long hair and glasses standing against a dark background in black and white.

Colour portrait of a young child with shoulder-length dark hair.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with side-swept hair looking toward the camera.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with long hair and a slight smile.

Two youth posing beside a metal playground structure in black and white.

A youth in a blue baseball cap and light blue shirt standing among trees.

Three young photographers aiming their cameras toward the viewer in black and white.

Black-and-white close-up of hands holding a DSLR camera outdoors.

A youth in a green hood looking toward the light against a dark background.

Black-and-white close-up portrait of a smiling young man.

A youth in a baseball cap and dark jacket posing indoors.

A youth wrapped in a blue patterned blanket in a colour portrait.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth in a photography club shirt with a camera strap.

Silhouette of a photographer holding a camera with the sun shining beside their shoulder.

A young photographer in a fur-trimmed winter hood holding a DSLR camera.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth in a baseball cap making a playful open-mouth expression.

Black-and-white close-up of a youth wearing a baseball cap with their eyes closed.

Black-and-white side portrait of a youth with curly hair.

A photographer in sunglasses holding a camera and making a peace sign beside a lake.

Black-and-white portrait of a man wearing glasses with mountains in the background.

A photographer in a pink knitted hat and purple fleece aiming a camera among trees.

Silhouette of a long-haired photographer with a camera against a golden sky.

Black-and-white outdoor portrait of a youth with short dark hair.

Two youth indoors, with one holding up an illustrated book.

Black-and-white portrait of a smiling youth wearing a photography club hoodie.

A photographer in a light baseball cap holding a DSLR toward the viewer.

Black-and-white portrait of a youth with long dark hair looking directly toward the camera.

Black-and-white side view of a photographer with a ponytail using a camera outdoors.

Three youth standing together among trees during a Pinehouse Photography Club outing.

What is Therapeutic Photography

What is Therapeutic Photography?

Therapeutic photography uses taking, choosing and reflecting on photographs for personal expression and connection. It can be practised independently or with a group. In my own photography and nursing experience, I think of a meaningful image as a Visual Anchor—a reminder to pause, notice the moment and reflect on something that matters.

You can explore these activities with a phone, a camera or photographs you already have. Technical skill is optional: the image’s meaning to you matters more than a perfect result. This page focuses on creative reflection and community participation. PhotoTherapy, described below, takes place within a professional therapeutic relationship.

A Community Perspective

The benefits of this practice extend far beyond the individual. Following the Socio-Ecological Model, photography activities can include peers, families, Elders and local educators. Participants choose the stories they want to tell, and local communities guide cultural context and how images are shared.

Fosters Connections with Others

Sharing photos and discussing them with others can foster connections and encourage communication, helping individuals build supportive relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.

Black-and-white photograph of two youth looking together at a DSLR camera screen.

Provides a Sense of Control

Taking and editing photos provides individuals with a sense of control over their creative output, which can be empowering and boost self-esteem.

Close-up of a chain-link fence with a softly blurred outdoor background.

Helps Individuals Process Emotions

Help individuals process emotions.

Macro photo of a leaf by Kiera Tinker in Pinehouse Lake.

Promotes Mindfulness and Focus

By encouraging individuals to take time to observe and capture the world around them, therapeutic photography can promote mindfulness and focus, helping individuals stay present in the moment.

A youth in a black hoodie standing on a rocky lakeshore beneath a cloudy sky.

"We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars."
— Oscar Wilde

Dre Erwin-aurora-borealis-Saskatchewan-1.jpg

Therapeutic Photography vs. Phototherapy

Therapeutic Photography

Definition: A self-initiated or group-based practice used for self-exploration, resilience-building, and personal growth.

The Approach: It is a flexible creative activity that can be done independently or with a community group.

Role: It offers space to notice, create and reflect. Participation does not require a therapist or professional camera.

Focus: Exploring what matters to you through images, captions and optional conversation.

PhotoTherapy (Clinical)

Definition: The use of photographs within therapy, guided by a suitably trained mental health professional.

The Approach: The professional may use personal, family or newly created photographs as part of an agreed therapeutic process.

Role: An approach used within a professional therapeutic relationship.

Focus: Exploring personal meaning and experiences with appropriate therapeutic support.

Understanding the Distinction

The setting and the facilitator’s role help explain the difference.

In a community photo activity, participants decide what to photograph, what an image means to them and whether to share. A facilitator supports the activity without diagnosing or interpreting someone’s photograph.

In PhotoTherapy, a trained professional uses photographs within therapy and takes responsibility for that therapeutic process.

The resources on this website are creative activities for individuals, educators and community groups. They do not provide a therapy qualification.

Youth from Pinehouse Lake using therapeutic Photography and taking pictures

How to Use Therapeutic Photography

How to Use Therapeutic Photography: The Visual Anchor Method

Try this simple process: notice something, make a photograph, reflect on it and decide what to do with it. A phone, a camera or a drawing can be your starting point.

Step 1: The Act of Mindful Observation

Start by selecting your tool—a professional camera or simply your smartphone. As you move through your environment, look for subjects or scenes that resonate with your current emotions. Instead of rushing, practice Mindful Observation. Focus on the light, the textures, and the details.

The Goal: Spend a few unhurried minutes noticing one subject, such as light on a leaf, a familiar object or a place you enjoy.

Step 2: Intentional Capture

Choose a subject you are comfortable photographing. Try a wide view and a closer detail, then choose a frame you like. You can photograph ordinary objects or places; you do not need to share a personal experience or make a technically perfect image.

Step 3: Reflection and Interpretation

Later, set aside time to review your photos in a quiet space. Ask yourself:

What was I feeling the moment I pressed the shutter?
What caught my attention, and what title would I give this image?
What would I like to remember when I look at it again?

Step 4: Keep or Share

Keep the image, add a caption or share it with someone you trust. Sharing is always optional. In a group, ask each creator what their image means to them, and get permission before displaying or posting identifiable photographs.

Group of children posing for a photo by a lake at night, with the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis in the background - learning photography and therapeutic expression

Benefits of Therapeutic Photography

Notice Your Surroundings:

Use a phone or camera to notice light, colour and small details in a familiar place. Choose one subject that catches your attention.

Optional Sharing:

Keep your image private or share it with someone you trust. In a group, let each person explain their own photograph and choose whether to join the conversation.

Notice Everyday Beauty:

Photograph something you appreciate: light on the water, a favourite place or an ordinary object. There is no need to force a positive feeling or tell a personal story.

Creative Activity, Not Therapy:

These activities offer opportunities for reflection and connection. They are not clinical psychotherapy or a substitute for professional care. Choose a pace that works for you.

Creative Expression:

Make a photograph of a place, object or detail that matters to you. Add a title or caption if you want to express an idea in words.

Personal Reflection:

Look at a photograph you have made or chosen. Ask yourself what caught your attention and what you would like to remember. Its meaning is yours to decide.

Practise a Creative Skill:

Try a wide view and a close-up of the same subject. Compare the images and choose a frame you like. A phone or basic camera is enough to begin.

Try Five Free Photo Activities:

Start with a short prompt and return to it whenever you like. Explore five free photo activities for individuals, schools and community groups.

Pinehouse Photography Club:
A Case Study in Action

While nursing in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club. I no longer lead its day-to-day activities. The photographs and memories here reflect my time with the club and the contributions of participating youth, families and community supporters.

The club’s story includes:

Young photographers expressing their perspectives, forming friendships and sharing their work.
The CBC documentary A New Lens on Life, following young people exploring photography and life in their community.
Club members’ photographs appearing in Kids Help Phone’s Finding Hope initiative.

Follow the club link above for the fuller history. This guide includes observations and a simple activity you can try with your own group.

Learn More

"Expressing oneself without even
Saying a word"

A photograph can offer another starting point when words are difficult to find. You might capture a place, an object or a small detail that matters to you. A caption or conversation can follow if you choose; keeping the image private is equally valid.

Three youth gathered around a DSLR camera outdoors, looking together at its controls and screen.

During my time in Pinehouse, I remember youth reviewing photographs together and helping one another with their cameras. Outings could start with a camera skill and lead to a conversation, a shared laugh or an image someone was proud to show. A phone or a basic camera was enough to begin.

To try a simple version with your group, invite each person to choose one photograph and, if they wish, give it a title. Ask, “What matters to you in this picture?” Let the photographer explain its meaning and decide whether to share.

an image of a boy, taking pictures on a steep rock overlooking some waterfalls near Pinehouse Lake Saskatchewan Canada

Resilience Through the Lens: Pinehouse Youth's Transformative Journey

Watch this video about youth photography and the Pinehouse Photography Club.

Learn More

Young man examining the back of his camera, exploring therapeutic photography at Pinehouse Lake

Capturing Resilience: Pinehouse Photography Club

Discover further insights about the Pinehouse Lake photography club and its young members here.

Learn More

Portrait of Keirra Tinker beside her testimonial about photography.

"Photography saved my life"

Keirra Tinker, Sask

Black-and-white portrait of Louis Iron beside his testimonial about expressing himself through photography.

"I love taking pictures because it helps me express myself when words aren't enough. It's like a visual diary that helps me see things in a different way and feel better about myself."

Louis Iron, Sask

Tyson Ratt peeking around a tree beside his testimonial about expressing himself through photography.

"Photography helps me express myself without using words."

Tyson Ratt, Sask

Lessons Learned and Impact

Through the evolution of the Pinehouse Photography Club, several foundational truths have emerged that define our approach to community wellness.

1. Democratizing Mental Wellness

A phone or camera can make creative activities easier to try at home, at school or with a local group. During my involvement in Pinehouse, simple photo prompts gave youth a starting point for making images and sharing what interested them. Participants could choose their subject, title and whether to share.

3 youth taking pictures in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan using therapeutic photogprhay principles

2. The Necessity of Sustainable Advocacy

My experience with the club taught me the importance of sharing the work. Regular activities need local organizers, trusted adults, practical supplies and time. Parents, educators and Elders can help shape a project that fits the community. I no longer lead the Pinehouse Photography Club; new groups should build their own local support.

3. Reciprocal Healing and Altruism

I learned alongside the youth. Their photographs, curiosity and willingness to help one another changed the way I saw familiar places. Contributing to a shared activity gave me a sense of purpose as well. Those personal lessons continue to shape the resources and stories I share today.

a young child taking pictures in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan using therapeutic photography principles

From the Frontlines: A Nurse's Reflection.

When you look through a camera lens, you block out the rest of the world, including misery, agony, and grief. It's just you and what you're seeing right now. Practice focusing on taking the perfect shot, and you'll find that even without the camera in front of your face, you'll be seeing the good in life a lot more clearly."
- Dre Erwin

Dre Erwin standing with his camera outside in Winter, taking photos of the Pinehouse Penguin dip in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, Canada

Evidence of Impact: Real-World Results

The photographs, personal accounts and media stories below document creative expression and community connection in northern Saskatchewan. They reflect the club’s history and my involvement as its founder.

A group of Pinehouse Photography Club youth posing together indoors.

Youth Voices:

Some Pinehouse club members described photography as a lifeline and a way to express what was difficult to put into words. Their accounts are an important part of the club’s story.

Pinehouse Photography Club members posing together outdoors beneath a pale sunset sky.

National Recognition:

CBC’s A New Lens on Life followed Pinehouse youth and the photography club, sharing their photographs, relationships and experiences with a national audience.

Kids Help Phone Partnership:

Kids Help Phone purchased 12 photographs by Pinehouse Photography Club members for Finding Hope, its action plan supporting Indigenous youth. These images brought youth perspectives from Pinehouse to a wider audience.

A youth posing among birch trees during a Pinehouse Photography Club outing in northern Saskatchewan.

Boosting Self-Esteem:

During my time with the club, youth joined photo outings, portrait sessions and community events. Learning a camera skill, choosing a favourite image and sharing it on their own terms gave members opportunities to build confidence and connect with peers, families and Elders.

View Impact & Testimonials

Two youth beside Pinehouse Lake at sunset, one facing the camera and the other turned toward the water.

Nursing Perspective:

As the club’s founder, I brought my experience as a primary care RN(AAP) to a community photography setting. I no longer lead the club. This history reflects a creative community project, rather than a clinical treatment program or a service I currently provide through the club.

Dre Erwin standing at the open rear doors of an ambulance in rural Saskatchewan.

Multi-Disciplinary Approach:

During my time with the club, we worked with social work professionals to connect youth with photography. Trusted adults and local relationships helped make these activities possible.

Explore Collaborations

Read Photography FAQs

Collaborations and Future Initiatives

I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club, but I no longer lead it or manage its operations. This page shares experiences from my time with the club. For information about its current activities, please contact the club or local organizers directly.

Expanding the Reach

My current focus is sharing photography, stories and practical activity resources with educators, families and community groups. I welcome conversations about how local hosts might adapt these ideas, with community members guiding cultural suitability, language, permissions and participation.

Strategic Partnerships

Useful connections for community projects include:

Local Educators and Community Leaders: To choose activities that fit their learners, culture and community.

Equipment Supporters: To help local groups access cameras and other practical supplies.

Storytelling and Media: To share youth perspectives with permission and encourage creative opportunities in northern communities.

"Therapeutic photography doesn't require immediate verbal articulation, effectively reducing the stigma and barriers to formal mental health support."

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

Overhead view of youth using a camera beside a rocky ledge during an outdoor photography outing.

What is the difference between Therapeutic Photography and Phototherapy?

Therapeutic photography is a personal or group photography activity for expression and reflection. PhotoTherapy uses photographs within therapy led by a suitably trained mental health professional. The Pinehouse examples here describe my past involvement as the club’s founder.

A group posing together among tall trees during a Pinehouse Photography Club outing.

How does photography help with mental health and "Static"?

I use “Visual Anchor” to describe a photograph that reminds me to pause and notice something meaningful. Taking or choosing an image gives the activity a focus. What that image means is for its creator to decide.

An older woman holding a phone to photograph herself in a bathroom mirror.

Do I need a professional camera to practice this?

Not at all. In fact, a smartphone is often the best tool because it is always with you. The "therapeutic" part is about the process of seeing, not the quality of the gear. We teach youth and adults alike that the most important part of the camera is the person standing behind it.

Three children posing together outdoors among leafless trees.

How does the Pinehouse Photography Club model work?

During my involvement, the club combined photography skills, outings and opportunities to share images. Youth connected with peers, families and Elders through these activities. I founded the club and no longer lead its operations.

Black-and-white close-up of a youth in a hoodie holding a Nikon camera.

Is therapeutic photography evidence-based?

This page shares my community experience, participants’ personal accounts and links for further reading. Those stories matter, while questions about treatment effectiveness need research on the specific activity and outcome. Explore the Science & Resilience overview and the PhotoTherapy Centre for more context.

About

Dre Erwin

I’m Dre Erwin, a primary care RN(AAP), photographer and author in Saskatchewan. I founded the Pinehouse Photography Club and no longer lead it or manage its operations. My work with the club was featured in CBC’s A New Lens on Life. Today, I share northern photographs, stories and practical resources for creative reflection in schools, families and community groups.

About

Dre Erwin posing for a picture in Regina Saskatchewan wearing a New York Yankees hat and a Dre Erwin Photography Sweater in white

A young girl in a green winter parka smiles behind a Nikon DSLR camera in a snowy outdoor

The Science of the Lens

My nursing experience shapes the questions I ask about photography, reflection and community connection. I continue to learn from participants, educators and published research. Personal stories and research each add a different perspective to this work.

View the Science & Resilience Overview

When we teach youth to look this closely at a flower, we are teaching them Mindfulness. To

Where to Go from Here:
Taking Your Therapeutic Photography Journey Further

Brother and sister sharing a hug in front of waterfalls near Pinehouse Lake while participating in photography with PPC

Where to Go from Here: Taking the Journey Further

Start with a short activity that fits your interests and setting. You can try it independently or invite an educator, family member or local facilitator to join you. No specialist camera is needed, and participants choose whether to share.

Connect with the Community

Join our Facebook community, Inspiritography, to connect with a like-minded network of photographers and wellness advocates.

Stay Inspired

Subscribe to the newsletter for creative prompts, northern photographs and stories from my work.

Try an Existing Resource

These resources offer practical next steps for individuals, schools and community groups.

Free Photo Activities: Five simple prompts with photography skills, optional reflection and accessible alternatives.

Start a Club: Explore the original club framework and ideas that a local host can adapt.

Teachers & Students: Find school and community activity ideas, book information and session enquiries.

Start Now

Beyond Pictures: Therapeutic Photography Insights (Blog)

Members of the Pinehouse Photography Club raising their arms beneath the vibrant green northern lights along a lakeshore in Pinehouse Lake, northern Saskatchewan.

Under the Northern Lights: More Than Just a Photograph

Discover the story behind the Pinehouse Photography Club, where youth in northern Saskatchewan explored photography, built friendships, and created lasting memories beneath the northern lights. A personal reflection on creativity, community, and the power

A wide aerial drone photograph by Dre Erwin capturing a lush green backyard where hundreds of community donations—including shoes and clothing—are arranged into a giant pickleball paddle to support a youth sports drive in Sandy Bay.

When a Community Steps Up: 150 Pairs of Shoes, Cameras, and a Very Full Truck Heading North

What started as a simple idea for a youth pickleball league in Sandy Bay quickly grew into a massive donation drive! Thanks to incredible community generosity, we collected over 150 pairs of shoes, DSLR cameras, and tons of gear to support northern youth mental and physical health programs. Now, the only challenge is fitting it all into the truck for the 740km drive north!

The Art of the Crop: Why It’s Time to Stop Framing the Garbage

Sometimes, protecting your peace isn't about setting the world on fire; it’s about adjusting your focus. In my latest piece, I explore a simple, powerful lesson I’ve learned from behind the lens: the transformative power of the intentional crop, and how you can apply it to your own life and mental health, especially when facing old challenges.

Captivating aurora borealis design, inspiring and vibrant, on a flexi case by Dre Erwin Photography.

Ready to Try Therapeutic Photography?

A short photo activity can begin with noticing one detail in your surroundings and reflecting on what it means to you.

Get the free 3-step photography guide:

DOWNLOAD

Visit the guide page to request a copy by email, or use the five free activities linked near the top of this page.

Learn from Judy Weiser

Judy Weiser is a psychologist, art therapist and founder of the PhotoTherapy Centre. Her writing explains the distinction between photography activities people try themselves and PhotoTherapy within a professional therapeutic relationship.

For her explanation and further reading, visit the PhotoTherapy Centre.