Healing Through Photography Conference on April 07-08, 2025 in Belfast, United Kingdom

Healing Through Photography Conference

Trauma & The Art Of Recovery

Join us for Healing Through Photography: Trauma & The Art Of Recovery, a unique two-day conference that delves into the transformative power of photography as a medium for healing, growth, and connection. Whether you are a photographer, mental health professional, educator, or creative enthusiast, this event will inspire and equip you with practical tools and meaningful insights which will allow you to incorporate therapeutic photography into your practice.

Hosted by the award-winning comedian, BBC presenter and TEDx speaker Emer Maguire, this dynamic event brings together leading experts, award-winning photographers, trailblazing practitioners, community champions, and individuals with lived experiences of trauma to explore the art of recovery through the lens of photography.

What to expect

Keynote speakers

Judy Weiser: Early pioneer of the photo-based helping techniques named PhotoTherapy and also the person who originally named Therapeutic Photography techniques, psychologist and art therapist Judy Weiser is the founder and director of the PhotoTherapy Centre in Vancouver, Canada, and is currently considered the world authority on the emotional contents of ordinary personal snapshots and family photographs. Judy Weiser will be joining us by video call.

Rosy Martin: Internationally celebrated artist-photographer and pioneer of re-enactment phototherapy. Rosy brings decades of experience exploring themes like identity, memory, and healing. She will also lead the workshop “Opening Up the Family Album”, providing hands-on insights into using personal photographs for emotional repair.

Event highlights

Inspiring keynotes & panels: Learn from globally recognised thought leaders, clinicians, campaigners, and photographers about how photography can aid mental health and emotional resilience.

Interactive workshops: Take part in hands-on sessions with leading experts whilst exploring iconic areas of Belfast and beyond.

Networking opportunities: Connect with like-minded professionals, artists, and advocates dedicated to driving change in mental health and community wellbeing.

Unique events: Join us for a sunrise photo walk on Belfast’s Cave Hill and meet fellow delegates for networking events in the Belfast’s famed Cathedral Quarter.

Exhibitions: Belfast Exposed will also host special exhibitions at their gallery in Donegall Street, giving conference-goers a chance to experience work by Northern Irish photographers who have used photography to reflect on their mental health. This will include Seen/Unseen, a compelling collection of work by Ballymena’s David McKinney which explores his mental health journey from stress, suicidal intent to recovery.

Why attend?

Innovative insights: Gain actionable strategies and tools from leading experts to enhance your approach to therapy, education, or creative practice.

Creative inspiration: Discover how photography can uncover new perspectives, foster emotional connection, and serve as a powerful tool for transformation.

Practical knowledge: Learn how to incorporate therapeutic photography into your work or personal life to inspire healing and growth.

Who should attend?

Mental health practitioners seeking innovative approaches to therapy.

Educators & community leaders interested in using photography to drive social impact.

Professional & amateur photographers looking to explore the deeper emotional aspects of their art.

Curious individuals who want to discover more about therapeutic photography.

Transport and accommodation

Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, where the conference will take place, is a vibrant cultural hub right in the centre of the city, with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re arriving for the first time or returning to this incredible city, we’ve got all the information you need for a smooth, enjoyable stay. Find out more about accommodation and transport links here.