Young Carers - A life in Focus

A FROGS LIFE

This photograph was taken in The Japanese Garden at Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park Belfast. I was going for a walk with my mum, my friend and my dog. I noticed the frogs and frogspawn. My mum walked on, she hadn’t seen them due to how camouflaged they were. This photograph shows the lifecycle of the frog and how important nature, and their environments are to the balance of life. It shows the importance of looking after nature. It makes me smile to look at the frog smiling up proudly showing off their frogspawn.

I have always been fascinated by nature and animals. I love to learn about them and their habitats. This photograph sparked my interest in nature photography and what you can capture by being aware of your surroundings. Photography, especially nature photography, is now one of my favourite hobbies. I love trying new techniques and skills. Going for a walk helps me to get away from my caring role.

FLEXING MY WINGS

This photograph was taken on a walk at Oxford Island, Northern Ireland with my mum, grandparents and my dog.

On the lake there were lots of swans and I wanted to capture a photograph of one getting ready to fly away. It took a lot of patience to capture this moment and I hope this photograph shows the swan’s elegance and strength on a misty, moody day.

I think this image helps to show that even though we might be dark and moody with lots of problems we can find hope and strength. I like to go for a walk and push the wheelchair. We don’t get out very often as a family and this photo helps me to remember a nice walk with my family.

A SUNNY BEACH

This photograph was taken on White Rock’s Beach Northern Ireland. 

I had finished surfing and wanted to capture the beauty of the sunset and the reflection in the water. This photograph helps to show beauty that can be found anywhere. This image makes me feel happy and relaxed. It helps to reflect the importance of the beach and sea. I learnt to surf with The Wave Project. They work to enhance mental health of young people through surfing. An hour in the water helps me to deal with my worries, stress and anxiety especially those associated with being a young carer. 

I love to be at the beach and especially in the sea. I enjoy surfing, stand-up paddle boarding and snorkelling. This beach has a lot of memories of doing this with friends and family.