Photography Through A Different Lens
Photo: by Raegan Davidson
One of my sons is not only an outstanding painter; he’s also an amazing photographer. He can take a photo of an object and depending on the angle, lighting, background or other significant element, it leaves a stunning impression. One of my granddaughters also has a gift for capturing breathtaking photos, and hopes to use her skills as photographer in her career choice.
Over the years I have taken hundreds of photos. Maybe thousands. We had five children and of course, photo memories were mandatory! We have seventeen grands and yes, they too, get photographed. I’ve taken pictures to document travels across the USA, Hawaii and several different cruises. I’m documenting the current build of my house, our animals, rivers and mountains, weddings, graduations and almost everything in between.
World Photography Day 2025
On August 19 (yesterday) people around the globe celebrated World Photography Day. This day is set aside every year to encourage photographers to share a photo they’ve taken which defines and captures the essence of their world.
Photos are a life line to the past; moments in time forever captured to enable us to actually ‘see’ an event that happened decades ago. But it begs the question, ‘Who can take photos?’ —- The simple answer is anyone with a camera (or even an iPhone in our modern world). But maybe the question should be ‘Who can take good photos?’; those kind that catch a person's personality as a fighter, or of strong determination. Perhaps it’s defiance that shows up, or the look of serenity and goodness.
Personal Photo taken in 2013, South Dakota
Up Close and Personal
Most would tell you anyone who is trained or willing to learn, can be a photographer. I tend to agree, but what about those photos that take your breath away, perhaps in an active sport or those of, close up wildlife? These likely take a special passion and desire to create something unique and beautiful, along with training and learning the skill.
The very idea of creating artistic quality work of wildlife certainly would require someone athletic, and able to manipulate spaces and areas no one else could go….right? While that might be right, it’s very one sided and narrow minded. There are photographers who work solely from a wheel chair or have another disability which limits their accessibility. But limitations do not quell their passion and desire to create something stunning and of extreme high quality. Time and again, these unique photographers are proving this form of art can be accessible to all. (All that said, my photo of the buffalo is being at the right place at the right time!)
Adaptive Photography Equipment Is Available
Our culture often looks at photography from a perspective which limits the possibilities of those who just want an equal chance at fulfilling their dreams. It’s totally possible despite the challenges. Some fight social barriers, while others fight physical inhibitors. Concessions must be made to accommodate whatever disability is being confronted.
While passion and the desire to create stunning photos can be a driving force, there is a certain amount of creativity on how this might be done, if a person has a disability, given the weight of cameras and other gear, to make their dream come to life. Practical adjustments can be made with modified shooting techniques, adaptive photography equipment and camera gear designed for each situation. It can take resourcefulness, determination and sometimes just plain ‘ole grit to make it happen.
Seeing With Eyes and Hearts
Photography is about preserving what the eye has seen. It’s also, however, about seeing beyond the eyes, and seeing with the heart. By attacking the limitations created by any disability head on, with complete positivity, those who choose to pick up the camera and ‘create stories that have no words’ are capturing spectacular moments in time, one snapshot at a time!
A perceived limitation does not hinder God’s creativity in any person. In fact, often times, a different perspective from a private journey can enhance the depth of any photo. The unique perspective of a person with a disability is an opportunity to discover photography through a different lens!