PICTURE PERFECT
PHOTOGRAPHER DEFIES BLINDNESS AND OTHER MAJOR HEALTH ISSUES
THESE stunning images are remarkable – all the more so because the snapper behind them is almost blind.
Paul Jenkinson, 43, has Panhypopituitarism, a disease which has caused him to lose 90% of his vision in his left eye and 50% of his vision in his right eye.
He also has nystagmus, which means his eyes are constantly twitching.
Despite this, Paul, who is also colourblind and has no perception of 3D, is a keen photographer who spends most of his time taking pictures of zoo animals and beaches.
Paul, who lives in Y Ffor with his wife Angela (both pictured, inset) and two kids, said: “I was diagnosed when I was 28.
“At the time I was working as a buildings regulator for Gwynedd Council, but I haven’t been able to work for 10 years due to my health issues.
“I got quite depressed about everything and my photography helped pull me out of it.
“Rather than sit at home twiddling my thumbs I make the most of ofmy my time taking pictures pictures.
“At times my photography can be quite limited as I have to rely on people to take me places, which is why most of my work is of animals and beaches.”
Paul’s Panhypopituitarism was caused by a birth defect which left him with a piece of his skull missing.
Because of the missing bone, fluid from Paul’s brain has squashed his pituitary gland and his optic nerves which has caused brain haemorrhage in the past.
Along with Paul’s visual issues, the condition has also caused oste- oarthritis in his knees, hips and back as well as diabetes.
Paul, who was also diagnosed with prostate cancer a year and a half ago, said: “It really has affected me in so many ways, but I’ve not allowed my condition to hold me back.b
“There have been occasions when I’ve taken some pictures and when I put them up on the big screen I realise they’re no good.
“Because of the problems with my eyes sometimes the focus can be off or I haven’t been able to capture a picture the way I would have liked, but that’s where Photoshop [picture editing software] comes in!
“I do like to edit pictures too, it was difficult to begin with but I got the hang of it.
“I take pride in my pictures and my equipment, it really is a passion of mine.
“You have to try to not let your disability ruin your life.
“There is a great deal of things that limit my daily life, but I can’t let it get me down, you have to get out when you can and enjoy your hobbies to the fullest.”