Today’s guest blogger is Kasey Warren Hitt.
Ever thought of praying with black-and-white photographs?
Sometime after stumbling across the unique resource, Every Picture Tells a Story by Mark Oestreicher years ago, I discovered that black-and-white photos can be a creative gateway to prayer and Bible study.
I asked two photographers why this might be and each responded quickly. They pointed out how contrast allows the eye to see more (even though you are seeing less!). Said one, “You immediately see raw, real emotion, even the wrinkles of a face, often hidden by the distraction and busyness of color.”
Surrounded as we are (most of the time) by a cacophony of sound, movement, and color, our souls respond to silence, stillness…and monochrome scenes!
Here are a few pointers for praying with black and white photos:
- Find some photographs. You can Google “black and white photographs” or check out the work of Jimmy Abegg whose photos were used in the Oestreicher resource above. Or visit the online gallery of the famous photographer Ansel Adams.
- Take a moment to close your eyes, breathe, stretch and say, “Here I am, God.” This allows your brain to be where your body is for this prayer-time.
- Set out or scroll through at least 5-10 photos. See which one grabs your attention, whether you are drawn to or repelled by it.
- Study the photo. Look at it thoughtfully (contemplatively) and ask God, “What do you want to say to me through this photo?” How does this photo connect with my life right now?”
- Listen. What comes to your mind and heart? Journal or sketch your observations, thoughts or conversation with God. End your prayer time by giving thanks for whatever you discovered.
Kasey Warren Hitt is a spiritual director and retreat leader with a Masters of Divinity degree and a Certificate in Spiritual Direction at The Seattle School of Theology & Psychology (formerly Mars Hill Graduate School). She lives in Nashville with her husband Russ and their children Alaina and Alex.
