Mental Wellness and Nature Photography Research

E.O. Wilson (1929–2021) was a renowned American biologist and naturalist, often referred to as the "father of sociobiology" and "father of biodiversity." 

One of Wilson's most influential ideas is the biophilia hypothesis, which he introduced in his 1984 book, Biophilia. The hypothesis suggests that humans have an innate affinity for the natural world, a deep-seated connection rooted in our evolutionary history. According to Wilson, this bond with nature has shaped human development, culture, and well-being. The hypothesis suggests that interactions with natural environments and patterns, such as the fractals found in trees or rivers are essential to human health, fostering a sense of belonging, reducing stress, and enhancing creativity, while the loss of natural connections can negatively impact our mental and physical health.

Wilson’s biophilia concept underscores the importance of preserving biodiversity, not only for ecological balance but also for nurturing humanity's psychological and spiritual health. His work continues to influence conservation, environmental ethics, and design principles that incorporate nature into urban and personal spaces.

This hypothesis has been well supported by a plethora of peer reviewed research since.

Wilson E. O. (1984). Biophilia. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Fractals are natural, self-repeating patterns that can be found in everything from trees and clouds to coastlines and rivers. These patterns, when represented in nature photography, can have a profound effect on the human mind, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. The brain is naturally attuned to recognize and process these patterns, which is why viewing fractal-like structures in images of nature can trigger a sense of calm and well-being. Fractals and their affects on our visual processing centers of our brains is a possible mechanism for the beneficial effects of nature imagery. 

For further reading on the benefits of fractals and nature visuals:

1. Fractal Geometry and Human Perception
2. Fractals and their Effects on the Human Brain

"Daily exposure to virtual nature reduces symptoms of anxiety in college students" (2023) – Experimental Study

This study is one of the first studies looking at the longitudinal effects of viewing virtual nature and its impact on symptoms of anxiety and depression. College students were exposed to virtual nature images daily for several weeks. They found that, “among our sample of 40 college students, anxious apprehension (worry) decreased with virtual nature exposure relative to no exposure. These changes remained significant after adjusting for gender, semester, and sleep and physical activity changes. Beneficial changes in anxious arousal (panic) were also observed and approached significance in adjusted models. No significant effects for depressive symptoms or rumination were observed.”

For detailed insights, visit the full study.

"The Effect of Brief Exposure to Virtual Nature on Mental Wellbeing in Adolescents" (2023) – Experimental Study

This study examined how short virtual nature experiences influence adolescents' mental health. Participants who watched a 6-minute virtual woodland video reported significant improvements in stress reduction, relaxation, mood, attention, and connection to nature compared to those who viewed an urban setting video. These findings suggest that brief virtual nature interventions, such as nature photography, can effectively enhance mental well-being in adolescents.

Read the full study here.

"Viewing Nature Scenes Positively Affects Recovery of Autonomic Function Following Acute-Mental Stress" (2013) – Experimental Study

This study investigated the physiological effects of viewing nature versus urban scenes following acute mental stress. It found that participants who viewed nature scenes experienced significantly faster recovery in autonomic function, measured by heart rate variability. These findings underscore the calming and restorative effects of nature imagery, making photography of natural environments a valuable tool for reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Read the full study here.

"Biophilia: Does Visual Contact with Nature Impact Health and Well-Being?" (2009) – Systematic Review

This review analyzed multiple studies to assess the health benefits of visual exposure to natural elements, including nature photography. It highlighted reduced stress, improved mental well-being, and enhanced cognitive restoration as common outcomes. The review emphasizes that nature imagery offers a therapeutic and accessible means to integrate the benefits of biophilia into daily life.

Read the full study here.