Photography From A Wheelchair
Many people are surprised to learn that some of my favourite photographs have been taken from a power wheelchair. While some photographers climb mountains, scramble across rocks or spend hours standing behind a camera, I experience the world from a seated position. Over time, I have discovered that this unique perspective can create photographs that are every bit as powerful and memorable.
Photography allows me to explore New Zealand's wildlife, landscapes and communities while working within my own physical limitations. Rather than seeing disability as a barrier, I have learned to see it as a different way of viewing the world. The camera becomes a tool that helps me share that perspective with others.
A Different View Of The World
Most photographs are taken from standing height because that is where most photographers spend their time. As a wheelchair user, my camera is naturally positioned lower to the ground. This often creates more intimate images of wildlife, gardens, parks and public spaces.
Many photographers deliberately crouch or kneel to achieve the same perspective that comes naturally from a wheelchair. What may seem unusual at first has become one of my greatest strengths as a photographer. Every image reflects a viewpoint that is uniquely my own.
The world looks different from a wheelchair. Sometimes that difference creates opportunities to capture photographs that others may never notice.
Finding Beauty Through Accessibility
Living with a disability means accessibility is always part of the journey. Accessible paths, boardwalks, parks, reserves and public spaces often become the starting point for my photographic adventures.
Fortunately, New Zealand offers many accessible locations where wildlife and nature can still be enjoyed. Native birds do not care whether a person is standing or sitting. Tūī, Kererū, Fantails and Kingfishers can often be photographed from accessible paths and viewing areas if you are willing to spend time observing and waiting patiently.
Patience is one of the most important skills in wildlife photography. A wheelchair has taught me to slow down, observe my surroundings and appreciate moments that many people rush past.
Technology Creates Opportunities
Modern technology has transformed photography for many disabled people. Lightweight digital cameras, image stabilisation, remote controls, smartphones and drone photography have opened opportunities that were unimaginable a generation ago. Many wheelchair photographers now use adaptive equipment, camera mounts and remote controls to continue pursuing their passion.
I enjoy working with a variety of photographic equipment and technology to capture images that tell a story. Every photographer develops techniques that work for their own circumstances, and I am continually learning new ways to improve my photography.
Disability Does Not Define Creativity
One of the messages I hope this website communicates is that disability does not limit creativity. People often focus on what disabled people cannot do, but photography encourages us to focus on what is possible.
Every image on this website was created through patience, determination and a love of photography. Some photographs required careful planning. Others happened unexpectedly while exploring Northland or observing New Zealand wildlife. The common thread is a passion for capturing moments worth sharing.
My goal is not to be known as a photographer who happens to use a wheelchair. My goal is simply to create photographs that people enjoy and remember. If my journey also encourages another disabled person to pick up a camera, then that is an added bonus.
Seeing Possibilities
Photography reminds us that there is beauty everywhere if we take the time to look. Through this collection of images, I invite visitors to see New Zealand from a slightly different perspective—one shaped by resilience, curiosity and a lifelong passion for exploring the world through a camera lens.
The photographs may be taken from a wheelchair, but the possibilities are endless.