As photographers, we heavily rely on our eyes. They are essential to our work. Taking care of our eyes should be something we take the time and effort for. How do you keep your eyes healthy?

Recognizing issues with your eyes can be challenging. Or often, we do notice them but choose to minimize and ignore them. We should know better. (I do this too, though)

Dry eyes, headaches, eye discomfort, blurry vision, twitching eyelids, … they are all clear signs we should rest our eyes. If any of those symptoms are you, stop sitting behind a screen (well after you’ve read how to solve it).

I could go very deep into this topic. From medicines to nutrition, devices, and whatnot. But this post is more to get you thinking about your eye health. To get you started.

The 20-20-20 rule and other eye exercises

There are plenty of exercises to do to relax and train your eyes. The most popular is the 20-20-20 rule. This is an exercise you can use daily.

The exercise states: for every 20 minutes of work (nearby), look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

For more eye exercises, you have this guide by Kraffeye.

Choose proper eyewear

If you need glasses or contacts, investing in them is best. Don’t go for the cheapest option you can get. You’ll need your vision. 

I find it easier to have contacts while photographing, allowing me to get closer to the viewfinder. But of course, if your eyes aren’t too bad yet, you can change the diopter of your viewfinder.

Also, invest in some sunglasses. Sometimes, you’ll be outside on a shoot, and the UV light can be hard on your eyes. Having good protection can help you out a lot there.

Eyegiene and eye care practices

Of course, there’s more than just looking away from screens and getting good glasses. Keeping your eyes healthy is essential, too.

Like, try to avoid rubbing your eyes with dirty hands too much. I know it’s obvious, but this is still too uncommon.

Always wash your hands before applying or removing your contact lenses. Also, remove them daily and not fall asleep while wearing them.

It’s also important not to expose your eyes to dirty water or fabrics. Change your bedsheets regularly, and only go to pools with clean water.

Regular eye check-ups

Seeing an eye doctor, apparently also called the Ophthalmologist, is also a good idea. They can give you clear instructions on improving your specific eye health.

They can also catch up on things you might have yet to notice or have just come to accept.

What eyecare do you do? Let me know in the comments!