Photographer Peter Lavris refuses to let partial blindness prevent him from pursuing his passion for photography.
By Maria Allen
Photography by Peter Lavris
The beauty of a South Shore summer is something that is too often overlooked by busy people as they go about their daily lives. For photographer Peter Lavris, however, each day presents new opportunities to capture scenic images that tell a story.
Photography has become a therapeutic and enriching pastime for Lavris, who is visually impaired. Lavris was diagnosed with a progressive cornea disease years ago, which resulted in partial blindness. An aspiring photographer who has always enjoyed shooting photos with a smartphone, he began dedicating more time to his hobby in 2020, as a way to keep himself busy. Over time, Lavris discovered that photography was not only a creative outlet–it was also a new way for him to see and appreciate the beauty of the world around him.
Lavris and his wife moved to Hull a year ago and he has since enjoyed exploring scenic spots around the town with his cell phone camera at the ready. From picturesque beach paths to golden ocean sunsets, his images capture the essence of summer on the South Shore.
“The convenience of having a camera in my pocket ensures that I will never miss a moment,” says Lavris. “Whether it is a sunset, sunrise, or a quirky detail, I seize opportunities spontaneously.”
His favorite spots to take photos in Hull include Nantasket Beach and The Gut, an ocean channel that runs between Pemberton Point in Hull and the East Head of Peddocks Island. “I genuinely appreciate watching sunsets and the many sailboats that go by. I have taken a few breathtaking photos from this location.”
“As a partially blind photographer, I find solace in capturing moments through my lens, even though I cannot always see the resulting images very well,” he says. “I have learned to live and deal with my condition. I do rely on my memory and intuition. The camera becomes an extension of my senses, as a tool to translate the unseen into something tangible.
Photography brings Lavris joy and satisfaction and it has allowed him to experience the local landscape in a meaningful way by sharing his images with his community and the world.
“My goal is for whoever views my photos to be inspired to make a connection and understand the story being told,” he says. “I am using my camera to see the world around me, and my pictures to speak my words. I did not choose photography, it chose me.”
To learn more, follow Peter Lavris on Instagram @blindeye_ptl.