Immersive Photography: Exploring Spiritual and Embodied Dimensions Beyond Cognition

Abstract

This study introduces a practice-led, artistic research project that explores the question: What considerations are necessary when photographing land to convey an immersive, embodied, and spiritually-attuned connection between the self and the subject? The study suggests that embodiment transcends cognitive and physical realms, engaging with a ‘living essence’ that can be interpreted as a form of spiritual knowledge. When a photographer connects with the land on this deeper level, the process becomes a communion between the ‘essence of the living self’ and the ‘essence of the living earth,’ fostering a profound connection. The research employs heuristic inquiry to support a dialectical approach to problem-solving, where practical experience generates new, practically relevant insights. The research process is thoroughly documented in a reflective field journal, incorporating images, poetic writing, technical data, and critical analysis. This multifaceted approach facilitates reflection on the state of immersion experienced by the photographer and the outcomes that arise from it. By exploring the concept of ‘Immersive Photography,’ this research contributes to ongoing discussions about how photographers engage with the land. It proposes and critically assesses this concept as both a methodological and conceptual framework, offering fresh perspectives on the relationship between the photographer, the land, and the spiritual aspects of this interaction. The study seeks to enrich the dialogue surrounding the artistic practice of photography, particularly in the context of embodied engagement with the natural environment.