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Photographs by Mika Ferreira, Tétange. Shot with the right thumb.

email@uniquemf.com

Telling stories in pictures

As a photographer with a disability, I don’t let my body stop me. I’ve found a way to keep doing what I love, and I’m always looking for new ways to get better.

Black-and-white portrait: Mika in a wheelchair, head against the headrest, looking straight into the camera.

How I take photographs

  1. A right hand on the armrest of a wheelchair, the thumb resting on a small joystick.
    With just my right thumb
  2. A phone in a holder on the wheelchair tray, the camera next to it.
    I operate my phone
  3. The camera with its lens on a ball head, mounted on the wheelchair tray.
    and use it to control the camera.
Portrait: Mika with glasses and a beard, his head tilted slightly.

Biography

I live with spinal muscular atrophy type II, SMA 2 for short. It is a rare genetic condition. It progressively weakens the muscles, restricts movement, makes breathing harder and increases susceptibility to infections.

For a long time, these limitations forced me to push my passion for photography aside. Then I decided to take it up again, and I learned to help myself with aids and technology until I could control the camera with just my thumb.

I photograph landscapes, portraits and staged pictures. I want to take my pictures to a higher level and keep developing in every area.

I want to follow my dreams and encourage other people with disabilities to reach their own goals. With the right attitude, (almost) nothing is impossible.

I’m grateful for every opportunity to show my work. My pictures are meant to show that a disability doesn’t have to stand in the way of a fulfilling life.

The melody of photography is a unique composition of light and shadow.

Ateliers Kräizbierg

Reverse was created in collaboration with the Ateliers Kräizbierg. Kräizbierg has also made use of my work itself.

kraizbierg.lu

See the Reverse project