There are many hindrances that keep people from achieving their passions. It can be due to lack of finances, lack of opportunity, or for some, a physical disability.
But this 24-year-old man from Indonesia, Achmad Zulkarnain, seeks to defy the norm.
Born without arms and legs, society has often looked down on him. Yet that didn’t stop Achmad from becoming a professional photographer. His secret? Erasing the thought of being disabled.
Working in an internet shop several years ago piqued his interest in photography. He decided to buy his own camera and master the craft. Despite his physical impairment, Zulkarnain learned to do things his own way.
He shared on Al Jazeera that in order to turn the camera on and off, he has to use his mouth. Then, with the remaining skin on his hands, he hits the shutter button. To adjust the camera’s ISO, focus, or zoom, he has to press it against his face.
His shots, however, do not show any trace of difficulty which is his intention: “I don’t want people to see my pictures and think of who I am—I just want them to see my creativity.”
Travelling doesn’t pose any hindrance to Zulkarnain as well. He created a vehicle for himself and assembled it with the help of his family and friends.
The vehicle has led him to many places. He took this photo 2,800 meters above sea level at the crater of Mt. Ijen. Proof that nothing is impossible to anyone who is determined.
Aside from setting up his own company DZOEL, Zulkarnain also put up a school where he teaches photography. He is currently taking up law as well.
His determination, resourcefulness, and sheer creativity proved to the world that: “You don’t have to be perfect to be the best at what you do.”
