Visually-impaired photographer says "Capturing a Kingfisher was always on my bucket list"

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Alex Ditch tells the story behind his shot and why nothing can stop him from pursuing his passion for photography

Story Behind The Still: The Kingfisher
Kingfisher are known for their dramatic hunting techniques, which Alex has captured in great detail (Image credit: Alex Ditch)

‘Good things come to those who wait’ might be a familiar saying among wildlife photographers – in this genre, patience is a virtue, as Alex Ditch knows. “Capturing a Kingfisher was always on my bucket list,” he says. “But the first time I headed out to photograph the species, it only appeared for a brief few seconds.” However, Alex didn’t give up and another visit to the same site a couple of months later proved to be far more rewarding. Kingfishers can reach speeds of up to 40kph (25mph), so they are challenging subjects to capture. “With these beautiful birds, you need a bit of luck on your side,” Alex says. “But thankfully, the weather conditions that day were ideal for capturing a Kingfisher.” 

Alex follows the philosophy that everything is possible. Despite being affected by Bardet-Beidl syndrome, a genetic condition that impacts multiple body systems and causes him severe visual impairment, he hasn’t let it stop him from pursuing his passion for photography. “At first, I didn’t think it would be possible so I put the idea on hold. But my interest in photography never stopped and I really wanted to do it, so I gave it a go. That was the starting point of my journey,” he says. 

Alex’s story of overcoming obstacles and facing challenges in pursuit of his dreams has already inspired others. “Just because you have a disability, don’t let it stop you from doing what you love,” he explained to viewers of one episode of the BBC’s Winterwatch program. “That was an amazing experience and I am proud to have been a part of the series,” says Alex.

Story Behind The Still: The Kingfisher
Alex Ditch

Alex Ditch, also known as Visual Moments, is a wildlife lover and photographer from Sunderland. Despite being born with Bardet Biedl syndrome, a genetic condition that causes various physical issues including blindness, Alex is pursuing his dream of photography. He is registered as severely sight impaired and uses a white cane, but that hasn't stopped him from showcasing his work in local and national outlets, as well as on BBC's Winterwatch program. Alex is now selling prints of his work online.

Tech details

Camera: Nikon Z7
Lens: Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4-5.6 VR S
Aperture: f/6.3
Shutter speed: 1/4000 sec
ISO: 1600

(Image credit: Nikon)
Image

This article originally appeared in Digital Photographer, a monthly magazine, and the kitbag essential for pros, enthusiasts, and amateurs alike!

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Kim Bunermann
Kim Bunermann
Technique Editor

Kim is the Technique Editor of Digital Photographer Magazine. She specializes in architecture, still life and product photography and has a Master's degree in Photography and Media with a distinction from the FH Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences in Germany. While studying, Kim came to the UK for an exchange term at the London College of Communication. She settled in the UK and began her career path by joining Future. Kim focuses on tutorials and creative techniques, and particularly enjoys interviewing inspiring photographers who concentrate on a range of fascinating subjects including women in photography, the climate crisis; the planet, its precious creatures and the environment.