Photography is an important part of art therapy

Victor Habbick is a photographer, artist, designer and member of ePHOTOzine's Pro critique team. His work is published world wide and he supplies stock markets on a regular basis. His advice will range from kit choices and editing software to supplying agencies and finding inspiration. He describes his work as having commercial sensibilities with a touch of the surreal and you can find out more about this by visiting his ePHOTOzine profile or by visiting his personal website: Victor Habbick.

Here's his advice:

"On a very personal note many of you will have heard about Art Therapy and how it can benefit young and old, the ill and infirm the mentally broken and so many others in life. Photography is very much a part of this Art Therapy and can go a long way to help establish a kind of plateaux where each individual can express themselves in a visual context where words and actions are so difficult.

I have suffered from depression for a great many years if not from my childhood in one form or another and at times it is only through my art and photography that I can find a way to express my inner thoughts, dreams and yes at times nightmares. When I decided to share some of my images with others on sites like this I was taken back by the reaction that such images can impart upon others. Sure, reactions can be negative at times but on other occasions I have touched on areas that have meant so much to others for reasons that far outstrip my original intentions and for that I am eternally grateful that my photo art can go beyond the commercial niceness of the majority of uploads. If it touches a nerve deep down or becomes so emotive that it causes someone to write, I think my job is done. Personal emotions can be expressed in so many ways and art and photography is my release. If you find yourself in a similar position why not get the camera or paints out and release yourself to the image for only then can we all share in some part of the hurting and help in some way.

Without it to fall back on as a means of expressing my inner thoughts and emotions I doubt I would be here and I do not say that likely. It is a well know fact that the arts can be very therapeutic and I would encourage anyone in similar circumstances to get the camera out and express yourself!"