By ANEEKA SIMONIS
THURSDAY afternoons are Cain Ludcecke and Claire Wilson’s favourite time of the week, as they jump in the car for a two-hour journey with endless possibilities.
The pair, who together form the Pakenham Photography Group, drive around the nearby towns and capture creative shots of their surroundings – two of which are currently showcased in a local exhibition.
The sky’s the limit for the pair who have travelled to the Botanical Gardens in Cranbourne, Nar Nar Goon and Bayles to get the perfect shot to add to their varied portfolios.
“I like learning about taking photos and using my iPad. I also like going outside to take photos and showing my family and people at work,” said Cain, 41.
The pair each submitted an artistic snap to the “Home” exhibition at the Living Learning Pakenham which will be open until Friday 19 December.
Cain submitted an image of a letterbox which resembled a cow, while Claire chose to showcase an image of several water cans.
Each budding photographer is working on making an annual calendar for their friends and family and plans to sell their photographs in the near future.
Both Cain and Claire, who each have Down syndrome, have built up their photography skills as part of the course directed by disability support group Scope in Pakenham.
South Division General Manager Jenni Hendy said the program also helped the pair connect with the community as they investigated new places and people to photograph.
“All Australians have talents, passions, abilities and dreams. Scope is encouraging the community to look beyond the disability and see what individuals living with a disability can achieve,” she said.
Today (Wednesday 3 December) is the International Day of People with a Disability (IDPwD).
The day aims to promote an understanding of people with a disability and encourage support for their dignity, rights and well-being.
