War-injured photographer inspires others to get behind a camera
Giles Duley announces On the Move photographic competition
28 June 2013 – Today Giles Duley the award-winning humanitarian photographer who was severely injured whilst on patrol with the US Army in Afghanistan, visited the national Mobility Roadshow at the Telford International Centre, hoping to inspire all people with disabilities to get behind a camera.
He announced ‘On the Move 2013’, the national annual competition for disabled photographers, jointly organised by the Disabled Photographers’ Society and Mobility Choice, the charity behind the Mobility Roadshow. 
Giles endured life-threatening injuries losing both legs and an arm when he stepped on an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. Already a world-renowned humanitarian photographer, after years photographing the fashion and music scene, he was determined to use his photography to make a difference to the world.
His “we can all do something, no matter what our ability, there is nothing to stop us” attitude has led him to continue raising awareness of humanitarian issues, winning more prestigious photography awards since the incident.
Said Giles at the announcement: “When I was injured the first thing I said to my family was I’m still a photographer: not just for a hobby and job, it is what defines me. When I was still in hospital all I could think about was pictures. Still in a wheelchair the first picture I took was a photograph showing the extent of my injuries. Through photography I was able to express myself about my accident.
“What I love about photography is that no physical disability can take away your creativity and personal view of the world. Whilst it may be hard to take all the photos I want to; while it may be difficult for me to hold a camera at times, the reality is that when I actually take the photograph I have no disability. As a photographer I am on a level playing field with all other photographers.”
This year’s ‘On the Move’ theme of Travel & Leisure offers opportunities to capture the atmosphere of being out and about, whether to destinations near or far, holidays or short breaks, the transport to get you there, the people you meet.
There are three age categories and the winning and shortlisted images will be printed, mounted and displayed at a public exhibition and award ceremony at Calumet Photographic in London. For full terms and conditions and entry details visit www.mobilitychoice.org.uk
Each category winner will receive a Merlin Annual Pass for a disabled person and carer, offering entry to a range of top UK attractions; Calumet photographic accessories and £150 cash.
“I am delighted that Giles is supporting our competition, his work and personal story are a great inspiration to all disabled people and I am sure this will be reflected in this year’s entries,” said Tom Molloy, chairman of the Disabled Photographers’ Society. “I am looking forward to meeting Giles and swapping ideas as to how we can help those with disabilities to either take up or continue photography as a hobby, or even as a career.”
Said Jacqui Jones, chief executive, Mobility Choice: “Giles and his compelling humanitarian photography are an inspiration to us all, especially those newly disabled. It is very generous of him to support our competition and we are delighted to welcome him to our 30th anniversary event.”