Improve Your Memory with Photography

As we all know, there are many benefits from going out on a walk such as increasing your creativity and reducing your stress, but it appears that taking photos is also good for aging. I recently came across an article that cited a study from the University of Texas on digital photography and aging. According to the research, people aged 60-90 improved their memory abilities when using digital photography to challenge themselves mentally compared to people who did just fun activities such as watching videos and playing games.

According to Denise Park, lead researcher and co director of the Center for Vital Longevity, "It seems it is not enough just to get out and do something - it is important to get out and do something unfamiliar and mentally challenging." That is one reason that I like to take out a new lens every once and awhile because it makes me think about how to get the best images.

Taking images with a digital camera uses both our creative and technical parts of our brains. When we are out taking photos, we stimulate our brains as we take into account the image we wanted to capture and what aperture and ISO settings we chose. These steps require us to search our memory for what we know about how our camera works. I would also add that it encourages us to remember what we have learned from workshops or tutorials. All of this is good for your brain.

It is not just about capturing the photo, we can continue to reap benefits from doing post processing once we are back from our walks. I know that when I am back at my computer I look at each image and try to remember what I was trying to create when I was composing the photo. This, plus using your technical skills to create that vision, is good for your brains.

An added benefit of Camera Walking is that you also help your brain, body, and spirit when getting exercise. I can't think of a better combination - taking a walk and taking photos.