It’s wonderful to meet you
I’ve always had a need to prove myself, to push myself to the limits and to succeed. For me, success was embodied by attaining a senior role at a national newspaper, which I achieved when I became The Picture Editor at The Times in 2004.
Looking at nearly 20,000 images every day - and the heavy burden of responsibilities that came with my role - left me suffering with stress, insomnia and anxiety. By 2011, I was in the grip of depression. My relationships with friends, with my wife and with my son all suffered. At the end of December 2011, I left The Times. Then, I stumbled upon a secret path: landscape photography. In the silent embrace of nature, I learned to breathe again, to find solace in the sunrise symphony and strength in the stoic gaze of mountains.
As I slowly learnt the value in solitude, and the magic that unfolds when I use my camera as a tool for self-expression, I traded noise and materialism for something far more precious: peace.
"Still" is a bridge, built from my own journey of discovery, to guide you on yours. Here, you'll find more than just photographs. You'll find a portal to self-expression, a lens through which to rediscover the wonder of simply being. Let go of the clamour. Step into stillness, and paint your own story with light and wonder.
Meet Paul Sanders
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Paul has a way of drawing out the best in people. He has a relaxed and personal approach which encourages experimentation, curiosity and creative growth.
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Mindfulness in photography
I believe that photography is a very personal journey. The world whispers stories all around us, but in our rush, their melodies fade into the background noise. Photography, though, offers a pause, a chance to amplify the whispers and cultivate an appreciation for the simple beauty woven into every moment. This is the essence of mindful photography: not about garnering applause, but about capturing contentment.
We all lead busy lives, connected by the highest speed possible to every means of communication available. Everything clamours for our attention; texts, email, Facebook, Instagram and time simply slips through our fingers.
Mindful photography invites us to break free. It whispers, "Stop. Look. Feel." You can start simply by focusing on a moment – this one, if you like – breathe in, breathe out and notice how you feel. Notice the warmth of the sun on your skin, the rustle of leaves in the breeze, the quiet joy of being present.
