It’s not every day you get the chance to meet a blind photographer. In fact, it’s highly likely you’ll have the opportunity just once in your lifetime…and that’s why Bernward Thorsch’s upcoming opening is not to be missed.
Berny is a regular at Color Services. Wearing his trademark hat and accompanied by a caregiver, his visits always brighten the day. How can one not be inspired by a visually impaired senior citizen who refuses to give up his passion for photography? Over 90% of Berny’s vision is gone.
Berny’s caregivers, Lorena and Margarita, are the best. They drive Berny to scenic locations—near and far—and act as his eyes. When a picture-spot surfaces, they describe it to Berny and help him get into position. Then Berny, a film purist who can see more through his camera lens than with his naked eyes, uses his insight and experience to compose, manually focus and shoot.
Photography has been part of Berny’s life since childhood. His father owned a camera factory in Germany. Years later, it became Berny’s own profession as the owner and operator of Studio City Camera Exchange in Studio City, California.
Berny likes to have his work printed at Color Services. He favors 11x14s, a nice size to display. Our Customer Service staff enjoys helping him select the best images to print. Sometimes Berny surprises us with goodies—- chocolates, cinnamon rolls and such. As much as we love a treat in the middle of a busy day, the biggest treat of all is Berny’s inspiring spirit.
From June 7 to July 6, 2012, the photography of Bernward Thorsch will be on exhibit at the Braille Institute Santa Barbara Center, 2031 De la Vina Street, Santa Barbara, California. The show’s opening will be held on June 7 from 5-7pm, in conjunction with Santa Barbara’s “1st Thursday” evening of art.
Read more about Bernward “Berny” Thorsch and Insight:The Blind Photographer here at the Braille Institute of America. To purchase one of Berny’s photographs, with all proceeds going to the Braille Institute Santa Barbara Center, visit Berny’s site here.