Inspirational Blind Football Fan Turns Photographer

A 51-year-old blind turned into photographer, relying on the sound of the ball being kicked and the roar of the crowd when taking shots.

16:41 28 July 2015

51-year-old Dave Taylor, a lifelong football fan has become Portsmouth FC’s official photographer despite being registered blind. Taylor relies on the sound of the ball being kicked and the roar of the crowd to know where to aim his camera and get the best action shots.

 

Mr Taylor, who has only 25per cent vision in each eye, recently lost his job in the security industry after a 34-year career but is delighted to take photos of his beloved team.

 

 Mr Taylor, who is married, said: “I was at an all-time low when I started to lose my sight and couldn’t think of a way out of my situation.

 

“I had always regarded myself as the main breadwinner and for that to be put at risk was awful.

 

“I’m grateful for all the help I’ve received at RNIB because I’ve learned that my sight loss doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving my dreams after all.”

 

He added: “When I found myself at pitch-side taking photographs at the club I have supported all my life, I felt like a kid in a toy shop - it was so exciting for me.

 

“It’s great Pompey were willing to look beyond my sight loss and see I can actually take some decent pictures.”

 

Colin Farmery, who manages the club’s inclusion and diversity policy, said: “When Dave approached us, it sounded such an inspirational story that we were delighted to give him his chance.

 

“He has proved a valuable member of our Pompey press volunteer team of photographers and his pictures are very good.

 

“We are striving to be as inclusive a community football club as we can be and Dave demonstrates disability need be no barrier.”