"SON"

"SON" is a photography project about my son, who has autism. It was hard for me to accept his differences, and I often neglected him. Through this project, I learned to accept and love him as he is. Now, I’m proud of him and grateful he’s my child."

SON

Blagovesta Semkova

Autism affects 24.8 million people, or 2% of all children are diagnosed with it.

My older son is autistic!

 Autism was first diagnosed in 1943 by American psychiatrist Leo Kanner, who described a group of children with specific behavioral characteristics.

 “Son” is a photographic project in which I explore the world through the eyes of my child diagnosed with autism. Each frame in the project is an attempt to capture and visually present the unique ways he perceives the surrounding world, as well as the deep connection he has with it—from his affinity for certain textures and shapes, to his ability to find calm in moments that others might find chaotic and overlook.”

“Through photography, I strive to provide visual access to this slightly different way of perceiving the world, which can be difficult to understand for those outside the autism spectrum disorder.

 Each frame is designed to highlight not only the beauty and complexity of his inner world, but also to share with the broader community how photography can be a powerful tool for connection and understanding.

 With my project “Son,” I hope to provoke thought about the diversity of human experience and to show that every perspective, no matter how unique, deserves to be seen and appreciated.”