Photographs preserve stories of lives lived within restrictions

The big picture ... Port Chalmers photographer Andy Thompson is photographing the activities of ...
The big picture ... Port Chalmers photographer Andy Thompson is photographing the activities of residents during the Covid-19 restrictions. PHOTO: STEPHEN JAQUIERY
Portrait on the Porch ... Paddy and Sara Best with children Grace (17), Ruby (14) and Murphy (12)...
Portrait on the Porch ... Paddy and Sara Best with children Grace (17), Ruby (14) and Murphy (12) and dog Enzo and cat Pig. PHOTO: ANDY THOMPSON
Remembrance ... Jo Thompson with dog Molly and two other members of the public at the Port...
Remembrance ... Jo Thompson with dog Molly and two other members of the public at the Port Chalmers war memorial. PHOTO: ANDY THOMPSON
Step shots ... Mike Wheeler and Becz Cornelius with children Wren (4, over shoulder) and Finn (7)...
Step shots ... Mike Wheeler and Becz Cornelius with children Wren (4, over shoulder) and Finn (7) Wheeler. PHOTO: ANDY THOMPSON

Whether the subject matter is good or bad, a picture is worth a thousand words.

Professional photographer Andy Thompson is hoping if he takes enough photos of people in his community, Port Chalmers, it will provide a complete picture of life under  Covid-19 Level 4 and Level 3 restrictions   for future generations to appreciate.

‘‘I wanted to record this historic time. This is unprecedented.

‘‘Covid-19 has had such a remarkable impact on all of us. Good, innovative, family, rejuvenating, bad, tough, sad, stressed are only some adjectives that may describe your situation.

‘‘The idea is to share the amazing people in our community and what they’re up to in their bubble during this time.

‘‘The photos are about telling people’s stories.’’

Mr Thompson said he was only photographing people within Port Chalmers, Sawyers Bay and Roseneath, because that was  as far as  he could cycle  with heavy camera gear in his backpack.

He would continue to take photos under  Level 3 because most people would be remaining in their bubbles.

Ultimately, he hoped to secure arts funding to turn the project into a book.

john.lewis@odt.co.nz

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