Handicap So What

Welcome to the homepage of "Handicap? So what!" – my unique photo project that pushes boundaries and opens dialogue about what it really means to live with a disability. As the photographer and initiator behind this project, I am driven to reveal through my lens a world where the term 'disability' takes on a completely different meaning.

In this unique project I focus my camera on the unseen heroes among us – people who defy their limitations every day and live life to the fullest. From capturing the dynamics at vibrant festivals to portraying special professions and the passion for sports and hobbies; each portrait tells a personal story of resilience, joy and perseverance.

Unique photo project

"Handicap? So what!" strives to change the perception of disability and build a bridge between people with and without disabilities. My goal is to show through these special portraits that life is celebrated in all its facets, regardless of the challenges we encounter. I want to capture real, unfiltered life – from sports fields to parties, from everyday moments to major events, I capture the essence of fun, challenge and triumph.

This project is more than just photography for me. It is a movement to raise awareness, to break down prejudices and to start a dialogue that is often avoided. By giving people with disabilities a face and a voice, I hope to inspire society to look beyond the disability and see the person behind the photo.

I intend to write "Handicap? So what!" to present on various platforms – from festivals and events to rehabilitation centers and social institutions. Every portrait, every story, contributes to a richer, more inclusive society in which we celebrate the diversity of human existence.

Meet Bertus de Leeuw, an extraordinary photographer whose life story and artistry are as fascinating as the images he captures. Born with “Osteo Genesis Imperfecta”, a connective tissue disorder that makes him extremely vulnerable to bone fractures, Bertus learned from an early age to see the world from a unique perspective – from his wheelchair. This unique view of the world is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for his work and has helped him to develop into the respected professional he is today.

Bertus' passion for photography arose at the age of 6, when he invested his birthday money in his first camera. This early start marked the beginning of a lifelong dedication to capturing the world around him, a dedication that has extended into a successful career in professional photography. But Bertus is not someone who limits himself to one medium; he is also active in videography and graphic arts, making him a versatile artist whose work spans diverse forms and themes.

His projects demonstrate a deep social commitment and a desire to make a difference. From intimate portrait series in healthcare institutions to extensive projects that highlight the rich history of his municipality, Bertus uses his art to tell stories that would otherwise go unheard. His work is not only an expression of his own experiences, but also a platform for the voices of others, especially those of people with disabilities.

Bertus' own challenges have given him a unique view of the world, and his determination to overcome these challenges is what defines him as an artist and as a human being. Despite the physical limitations caused by his condition, Bertus has never allowed this to get in the way of his ambitions. On the contrary, his disability has only encouraged him to work harder and reach further, making him a tireless go-getter and an inspiration to many.

Through his work, Bertus strives to create more awareness and understanding about the inclusion of people with disabilities in our society. He not only highlights the challenges they face, but also celebrates their strength, resilience and contributions to our community. Bertus de Leeuw is more than a photographer; he is a storyteller, an advocate and a pioneer who uses the power of images to build bridges and create change.

Heb je suggesties, vragen of wil je graag meewerken aan dit bijzondere project? Fantastisch! Ik hoor heel graag van je. Samen kunnen we echt een verschil maken. Neem gerust contact op via onderstaande informatie. Laten we samenwerken om deze belangrijke boodschap te verspreiden en de wereld een beetje mooier te maken.

Jouw stem en bijdrage zijn essentieel voor het succes van dit project. Laten we samen het verschil maken!