My Story

On April 27th, 2013, I picked up a camera—and in that moment, I fell in love.

My journey began after I graduated high school in 2011. I moved to Seattle to study computer science, working several jobs to save up for college. After two years of hard work, I was ready to enroll. But just as my future was taking shape, everything changed. On April 18th, 2013, I was involved in a motorcycle accident that turned my world upside down.

Rushed to the hospital and taken into surgery, I soon learned that I had suffered multiple broken bones in both hands and a severe leg injury. Suddenly, I found myself unable to use my hands or walk properly. I had to leave Seattle and return to my parents' home, unable to work or take care of myself. 

Before the accident, my passion was playing guitar. Not only did I lose my job, my apartment, and the progress I had made in Seattle, I also lost the ability to play the instrument I loved. Overwhelmed by depression and facing mounting medical bills without health insurance, I felt as though the life I had envisioned was slipping away.

At my lowest point, my mom offered a small spark of hope—she handed me her old digital camera and encouraged me to try photography. At first, I resisted, but eventually I discovered a way to balance the camera on my cast and use my index finger to press the shutter. Before long, photography became more than a distraction—it became a new passion. I took that camera everywhere, and within three months, I launched my photography business, a journey that has since taken me to incredible places.

I share my story because I believe that even the darkest moments can lead to something beautiful. At the time of my accident, it felt like the life I had dreamed of was over. Now, I see that every challenge holds the potential for growth and that each of us has a unique gift waiting to be discovered.

I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I received throughout my recovery and my journey into photography. Without you, I would not have been able to reach my full potential. I am blessed by the people I've met, the places I've seen, and the opportunities I've embraced. Thank you for being a part of my journey—I promise to work hard every day to become better at what I do.

Cheers,

Isaac Gautschi