Saudi Gazette A photography competition showcased the impressive creativity and admirable talent of the physically disabled, who shared with the society their feelings, hopes, dreams, and difficulties with the help of pictures. Their outstanding photography helped us understand, respect, and appreciate the physically disabled as productive and skilled members of the community. The competition was organized by Al-Ahsa Disabled Association and judges and viewers alike were stunned by the participants' gift for photography. The 55 competitors submitted a total of 168 amazing photographs. The judges included professional and well known photographers such as Saud Mahjoub, Mohammad Balbaid, and Meshal Al-Raihan. Judging criteria included clarity, correct use of light, the ingenuity of the idea, and overall presentation. A number of these photos were shockingly good, considering the participants were still amateur photographers. “Through their own work, they are increasing awareness and spreading education to the public on some of the challenges that the physically disabled face in the society.” said Abdul Lateef Al-Jafari, Director of Al-Ahsa Disabled Association, explaining the goal of the photography contest. In his opinion, a good picture speaks volumes and can be even more informative and effective than literature or poetry in dealing with the issue of disability. This is the third year for the photography competition, and each year the feedback has been phenomenal. It allows us to see through the eyes of the disabled and to acknowledge that this segment of the society has rights and are an integral and capable part of our communities. __
