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Hearing-impaired Ann-Maree Stands and Delivers great photography

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Newcastle resident Ann-Maree Cuthel, who is profoundly deaf, developed a passion for photography when she bought her first digital SLR camera in 2018.

She then overcame several hurdles to complete her TAFE NSW Diploma of Photography and publish a photobook showcasing her skills.

Ms Cuthel enrolled at TAFE NSW Newcastle’s Hunter Street Campus in 2020.

Her initial obstacles included having little knowledge in digital cameras and Adobe Photoshop and requiring a note taker and translator in class.

But, that didn’t stop her from impressing the head teacher of fine art at TAFE NSW Newcastle David Trout.

Some of Ann-Maree’s terrific images, which appear in Stand and Deliver.

He said her passion was infectious and teaching and support staff worked hard to help her through the challenges.

“When COVID-19 hit and the course was being delivered online, it seemed that it was going to be too hard for Ann-Maree,” he explained.

“Trying to learn online, to watch technical demonstrations and a translator at the same time was tough.”

Mr Trout said Ann-Maree’s major project assignment was to develop a series of black and white photographs based on a project showcasing Newcastle or a selected location, then to create and publish a high-quality photography book.

“It was challenging for her and required a great deal of problem solving,” he added.

“So, teachers and support staff met with Ann-Maree and together devised a plan to assist her.”

As for the talented woman, herself, she said she tended to use her vision to make up for the loss of her hearing.

“I use my eyes not just to see but to listen, so there is a natural transition to photography,” Ann-Maree explained.

“My passion lies in discovering something beautiful and extraordinary, and simple things in life that can often be taken for granted.

“I began photographing unusual country post boxes around the Upper Hunter, capturing and documenting what most people would drive by and not notice.”

Her book Stand and Deliver was published, with Ann-Maree printing a small edition to showcase her work to prospective employers in the industry.

To find out about studying photography courses at TAFE NSW, phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au

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