2023-04-11 17:00:17

Learning disabled photographer celebrates first sell-out calendar


Local photographer Dan is celebrating his first sell-out calendar which will see funds donated to the Cornwall services of Hft, the national learning disability charity which supports Dan to live his best life.

Cornwall local Dan created a calendar of his works towards the end of 2022, selecting images that, to him, best reflect each month of the year. He wanted to use his self-taught photography and editing skills to make a difference to the charity that supports adults, like himself, with learning disabilities across England and Wales.

               Two of Dan’s shots – Lostwithiel Nature Reserve and                                                          Charlestown

The now 23 year old first became interested in photography in 2019 and his dedication and patience have helped in improving his abilities since then.

Dan has a keen eye for birds, which is where his photographic practice started. He has particularly enjoyed capturing robins and Canada geese in the past and acknowledges that his photography has improved greatly since he first started.

He says, “I first started photography by taking photographs of swans and the beach. Then, when I got my first camera, I decided to go further with my photography,”

Dan has ventured across Cornwall to photograph nature from Newquay Zoo to the Eden Project. He even used his own back garden to capture a shot of the moon in the night sky using a 75mm-300m zoom lens on his camera.

                           Three more of Dan’s wonderful photos

He especially enjoys sharing his photography with others.

“The reason why I started photography, is because when I take photographs and share them, I like seeing people’s reaction, and receiving feedback on where I can improve taking photographs,” Dan continues.

In the coming months, Dan is planning to create his next Hft fundraising calendar for 2024, which will be available to purchase towards the end of the year.

He would also like to place his photographs on canvases for himself and his family to enjoy.

             Dan’s self-edited original photograph of Megavissey

Notes to editors

For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk

About Hft

Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.

Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.

In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.

 

Learning disability versus difficulty

 

A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.

For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk