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Writer's pictureDre Erwin

From Darkness to Light: Overcoming Addiction with the Help of Night Photography

Updated: Apr 22, 2023

Addiction and mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide on a daily basis, but recovery is possible despite being a lengthy and demanding process. One unconventional yet effective tool that has helped many individuals overcome these challenges is night photography. This therapeutic form of photography provides a peaceful and serene environment for capturing natural wonders such as the aurora borealis. It offers a creative outlet for individuals struggling with addiction, providing respite from daily life's stresses and triggers.



Therapeutic photography is not only effective in addiction recovery, but it can also play a crucial role in preventing addiction and promoting overall mental health and wellbeing. Regular engagement in this activity can lead to the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stress management strategies.

Moreover, therapeutic photography is an affordable and accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. It can be done alone or with a group, making it flexible and adaptable for individuals from all walks of life.

The Pinehouse Photography Club, a group of youth in Saskatchewan struggling with mental health and addiction, found solace and empowerment through therapeutic photography. In this particular project, the youth aimed their lenses at the breathtaking Northern Lights that illuminate the night sky over Pinehouse Lake. As they captured the stunning displays of green and pink hues, they also captured moments of introspection and reflection. Through the lens of a camera, they were able to articulate their emotions and experiences in a way that words often cannot. The result is a collection of powerful images that not only showcase the beauty of nature but also the resilience and creativity of the human spirit.
Capturing the Northern Lights: Youth Empowerment through Therapeutic Photography in Pinehouse

The Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that is a spectacular display of beauty, is visible in high-latitude regions such as Norway, Canada, and Alaska. For individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, witnessing the Northern Lights can be a powerful experience that provides a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the world around them.


This program aims to empower youth by teaching them the art of therapeutic photography as a tool for self-expression, reflection, and healing. Through this program, youth will learn how to use photography to explore their emotions, develop their creativity, and gain insights into their thoughts and feelings.  The program will consist of a series of workshops where participants will be introduced to the basics of therapeutic photography, including the principles of composition, lighting, and framing. They will also learn how to use their camera or phone to capture powerful images that convey their emotions and experiences.  In addition to technical skills, the program will focus on developing emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Participants will learn how to identify and express their emotions through photography, and how to use photography as a means of catharsis and healing.  By the end of the program, participants will have a collection of photographs that express their emotions and experiences, and will have gained valuable skills in photography and emotional self-expression. This program will provide youth with a safe and supportive environment to explore their emotions and experiences, and will empower them with a tool for self-expression and healing.
Empowering Youth through Therapeutic Photography: Fostering Self-Expression and Healing

To capture pictures of the Aurora Borealis with a phone or camera, one should choose a location with low light pollution, use a tripod, a high ISO setting, a wide-angle lens, and adjust exposure settings as needed. Experimentation with different settings is encouraged to capture the perfect shot.

Join me on my journey of using photography as a tool for mental health and healing. Through the lens, I have found a way to express my emotions, process my thoughts, and gain greater self-awareness. In this channel, I will share my personal experiences and techniques for using therapeutic photography as a form of self-care and expression. Whether you are struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety, or simply looking for a creative outlet, this channel is for you. Let's explore the healing power of photography together.
Healing Through the Lens: My Journey with Therapeutic Photography

In conclusion, night photography, the Northern Lights, and the Law of Attraction are potent tools that can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, process their emotions, and find inspiration and hope on their path to healing from addiction and mental health challenges.


Therapeutic photography is an accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. You can start this activity on your own or with a group of friends, no matter where you live. Simply grab your camera or smartphone, find a location with low light pollution, and start capturing the beauty of the night sky. Experiment with different camera settings to find what works best for you and enjoy the process of capturing images that inspire and uplift you.


To obtain further information, you can reach out to Dre Erwin or refer to the following links.







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Poetry by E.J.R. Hardy
Poetry by E.J.R. Hardy
30 de abr. de 2023
Avaliado com 5 de 5 estrelas.

Additionally, as an FYI: E Tenebris Lux is the Motto of Canadian Military Intelligence. If you think that you want a very solid career, the Canadian Armed Forces will provide paid, pensionable training and an incredibly challenging, but highly rewarding career. I joined the Canadian Armed Forces on 09 December, 1980, at the age of 17. I quit school in Grade 10 and I needed my mothers permission and signature because I was not 18. Was it easy. Not one fucking bit. But that is what it takes to be willing to put your life on the line for your Country and Humanity.


Was it worthwhile. Absolutely. I have travelled a good portion of this Planet. I have seen the…

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Poetry by E.J.R. Hardy
Poetry by E.J.R. Hardy
30 de abr. de 2023
Avaliado com 5 de 5 estrelas.

Dre has developed and incredible tool to help youth in a rural community, deal with the lack of resources and opportunity, afforded youth in a larger town/city. Additionally, as the Aurora's have a deep spiritual meaning to First Nation's, this is a particularly useful tool to assist the bright, indigenous youth, with overcoming their challenges.

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grace113denny
23 de abr. de 2023
Avaliado com 5 de 5 estrelas.

Awesome as usual!! Thank you Dre for the work you are doing to help others.

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Mountain Cliff Hiker with Dre Erwin

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