Christian Stops
An intimate photographer who moves between expansive environments and direct, engaging gazes
My earliest interest in photography began around 1985 when I received my first real camera, a Praktika MTL, at the age of 9. I initially lost interest but reignited my passion in the darkroom during school around 1992.
In 1995, after sustaining a spinal cord injury from a swimming accident at 19, my lifestyle became largely sedentary. Despite these challenges, I rediscovered photography in 2012 when I purchased an Olympus OM-D E-M5. Its touchscreen feature allowed me to release the shutter using my left thumb since the fingers on my right hand are paralyzed. I embraced new techniques and learned to see my condition as an opportunity rather than a limitation.
People often mention my unique perspective due to being in a wheelchair. At first, I dismissed this, but I have since realized that embracing this viewpoint can enhance my photography. I decided to share my experiences on my blog, hoping to inspire other individuals with disabilities to pursue photography.
I began street photography in 2013, unknowingly immersing myself in a genre I came to love. By 2014, I took it more seriously and started sharing my work on Flickr, where I connected with a community of fellow photographers.
