Photography with a difference

A SPECIAL photo exhibit was held at SM City Pampanga entitled "Photography with a Difference" with the theme "Waves of Change" last Saturday.

Every photo captured the moments of children with autism enjoying a trip to Ocean Adventure in Subic Bay, like normal kids do. The special children also had a chance to express themselves and share their hidden but unique perspective through simple point-and-shoot photography.

The advocacy began with a very identical chance encounter last 2008 between a photographer, John, and a 25-year-old youth with autism, Ian.

John invited him and his mother to Manila Zoo as he wanted to capture bonding moments between mother and son, hoping such photos would give her solace and inspiration during difficult times.

In the process, John taught Ian simple point-and-shoot photography and was amazed at the unique perspective that Ian's images showed, thus the birth of the concept of Photography with a Difference.

SM Supermalls, through SM Cares Disability Committee headed by Bien Mateo, has all throughout been supporting advocacies for People with Disabilities (PWD). SM Supermalls' structures are fit for everyone, especially PWDs, to make their malling experience as convenient and as fun for all.

The photographer who started this noble advocacy, John K. Chua, has partnered with Subic Bay Photography Society headed by Roy Van Morales and Cleo Roda Nodado for continuing what they had started last 2010.

With a special participation from Autism Society Philippines-Olongapo Chapter president Edna Aragonez and ASP-Pampanga Chapter president Joy Ofrecia and Ocean Adventure marketing officer John Raphael Flor with SM City Pampanga mall manager Lana Erroba, the children's experiences were truly made unforgettable.