After experiencing a traumatic event, I struggled to cope with everyday life and was admitted to a recovery unit. Traditional approaches didn’t help me open up, but one day I was given a camera and encouraged to walk through the Devon countryside.

That simple act changed everything.

Photography became a way to quiet the constant nightmares and gave me a renewed sense of purpose. Over time, capturing calm, natural scenes helped me manage my PTSD and begin rebuilding my life.

This journey led me to create therapeutic images designed to support others facing similar challenges. My work is now used in relaxation spaces, helping people find moments of peace and step away from intrusive thoughts.

I founded shankie.net to share this sense of calm more widely — a place where you can pause, unwind, and breathe after a stressful day.