Picture Series

Liam was initially hesitant about having his story shared publicly but became comfortable after we had talked through his fears. I reminded him the project would help people understand autism and that autism is just a part of who he is – it does not completely define him. When the story was published for the first time, Liam was overwhelmed with love and support from all over the world. Liam went from being ashamed of his autism to proudly owning it, in a little over a year. This formative experience shows the impact our photographs have and how photography can be used as a tool for positive change.

I had a difficult time understanding Liam’s autism and how it impacted him as a person. When I began studying Documentary Photography, I wanted to photograph Liam to better understand him. I kept the work private for a long time because editors would say things like “It doesn’t look like there’s anything wrong with him” and dismiss the work. Debunking the stereotypes surrounding autism became my agenda. These stories matter and they deserve to be told with caring and empathetic eyes. The handwritten captions were incorporated to uplift Liam and give him authority over how his story is told.

Heterogeneous newsrooms. Restored trust between communities and the media. Telling stories with integrity, empathy, and compassion. Calling out institutions that don’t support photographers and perpetuate industry elitism. Starting our own organisations, grants, platforms, and publications. Liveable rates for assignments. The option to unionise. Affordable healthcare. Protection from editors who abuse their power. Pulling up a chair for all the people who were previously denied a seat at the table. Revolutionising the way we tell stories. This is the future visual journalism deserves.