Time and Attention Session - Online

Although working with Zoom provides a reasonable quality recording, the resolution is low so, I am currently experimenting with local recording using your own smartphone to capture a higher resolution image. It takes a little more time to organise the setup but I do believe it will be worth it for the improvement in the quality of the finished film.

• You will need a device with a webcam - this could be a desktop, laptop or tablet. 

• Please set yourself up somewhere as quiet as possible, away from all distractions, where you won't be disturbed. (Pop a note on the door if you need to).

• Sit on an upright chair, facing or side on to a window, but not with a window behind you.  Check that your face is well lit and not in shadow.  Maybe have a lamp available nearby in case it's needed for extra light to illuminate your face. We can work that out at the beginning of the call. 

• Position yourself somewhere with a plain background or if that isn't possible, take a moment to make sure you are happy with what is in view behind you.

• Take some time experimenting with the positioning of your webcam. It needs to be at eye level, or slightly above. Have some books or magazines to hand to adjust the position if needed before we begin filming. 

• Ideally, just your head and shoulders should be framed by the screen, which may mean sitting closer to the camera that you usually do.  

• Use the Test Meeting facility on Zoom to check your set up before our meeting time, including testing the microphone. 

Other than the technical requirements above there is nothing you need to do to prepare for the session. Don't plan what you are going to say. This is about what comes in the moment, perhaps tapping into your inner wisdom.

• We'll begin with a brief chat to check everything is working well and to get settled.

• Before we begin I'll guide you through how to hide your 'self-view' in zoom so you'll just have me on your screen, and won't be distracted by seeing your own image.

• It may be you'd like to use the session to explore a particular question or theme, or it could be open to whatever comes in the moment.

• When I begin recording I'll ask you to close your eyes and to say something so zoom picks up you as the speaker and records your image.  I'll put myself on mute. The space is now yours.  

• When you are ready you open your eyes.  

• This is not an interview or a conversation. My intention is to pay attention with a neutral face - this isn't a sign I am bored but a way to allow you complete freedom to be in the moment without relying on feedback from me. It may feel weird at first but trust that it is okay. 

• You may stay silent, you may speak if words arise. You don't have to say anything, and you don't have to stay quiet. We'll be with whatever comes in the moment.

• I may speak. I may ask a question if it arises in me. But I may remain silent.

• Really, there is no expectation for the session. It will be whatever it is. There is nothing to achieve and nothing to prove. 

• I will be recording using Zoom and the footage will remain confidential between us, unless you give permission for it to be shared in an edited film.

• After the session, I will create a black and white film from your uncut footage to send to you, with the invitation to watch, and perhaps see yourself in a new way.

• I'll also send you a link to book in for a short follow up call in a couple of weeks time to give you an opportunity to reflect on your experience.