Welcome

As a contemplative photographer I know the art of moving through outer and inner landscapes, carrying the essentials - a camera, a journal, and questions:

  • What do I long for?

  • What attracts my attention, and why?

  • How does an image serve as a window into what is going on in my life, at this time?

  • What is God/the Holy One inviting me to notice?

We carry such questions as we journey through careers, relationships, and the terrain of life, with a miriad of edges- rocky, verdant, and ever changing. We can make meaning on winding pathways, if only we pay attention. Taking pictures, and writing in a journal about the thoughts and feelings that the image evokes, is a practice I rely upon for intimate connection with the world around me.

Photography as Contemplative Practice

My father gave me his Nikon, in 2011, as a final gift. When he died, I began a daily pilgrimage, of sorts, going out along the Atlantic shore, with camera and a journal, to photograph and document the landscape of my loss. It saved me - photography and journaling helped me channel my sorrow. It was a journey not of my choosing, but deeply moving. I discovered that an image can capture the expression of one’s internal experience, if only I/we slow down and take the time to really notice.

fullsizeoutput_c6.jpeg

To engage in photography as a contemplative practice is to dip into the mystery and depth of experience.

In Contemplative Photography the photograph becomes the focus for reflection and deeper engagement, and the perspective shifts from documentation to an expression of an intimate connection with the subject. I love to introduce photography and journaling as a contemplative practice; To journey with others, in workshops and retreats, enriches the experience.

Join me on the workshop page for upcoming Contemplative Photography workshops and sharing groups. I also integrate photography as a point of focus, in one-on-one spiritual direction. In-person retreat days listed on the Rolling Ridge Retreat and Conference Center website (Rolling Ridge.org), or upon request: Ingridcyros@comcast.net.

Ingrid earned a Master of Divinity Degree in Spiritual and Pastoral Care (Andover Newton Theological School), Spiritual Care Specialist certification (AAPC), and Spiritual Direction credentials (Gateways to God Andover, MA).  

I garden, cook, paint, and cycle, pausing for coffee and reflection. I live by the ocean, with my husband, Michael, where we delight in hosting guests in our guest house suite, in Newburyport. Whenever we can, we travel to Nova Scotia and Vermont, to spend time with family. We have two adult children, Gretchen and Bayley, and labradoodle, Oliver- the subject of many of my paintings, and photographs.

Contact: ingridcyros@comcast.net