A teenager with autism has found life-changing confidence after discovering her talent for wildlife photography.
After coming second in the RSPCA Young Photographer Awards with a photo of her dogs, she decided to pursue wildlife photography - and is now loving life thanks to her new passion.
That decision led her to sign up for workshops run by wildlife photographer Paul McDougall, founder of Touch The Wild - a company offering everything from beginner wildlife sessions to advanced workshops, multi-day UK tours and international safaris. Paul specialises in helping photographers learn to read animal behaviour and capture difficult-to-get images, while keeping outings calm, safe and supportive.
Caitlyn says Paul's patient, intuitive approach made all the difference. "Before I met Paul I didn't have much confidence at all, but he understood me straight away. He taught me how to focus on the animals, the behaviour and the moment - and that helped me focus in life too. Photography makes me feel like I can actually do things I never thought I could."
Her mum Paula says Caitlyn bonded with Paul within minutes, describing his supportive style as transformative.
Since joining her first workshop in February 2024, Caitlyn has photographed an incredible list of species through Touch The Wild sessions: ospreys diving for fish, puffins with bills full of sand eels, mountain hares in deep snowfall, red squirrels, otters, beavers and even a lynx. She now keeps detailed notes on animal behaviour - something Paul teaches all his students to look for when anticipating the perfect shot.
Paul said: "Caitlyn has a fantastic eye and a natural gift for wildlife photography. Her progress has been extraordinary - shots that take years for some people, she'll nail in one try. Watching her confidence grow has been incredible."
Her mum added: "People see her wonderful photos, but they don't see the sensory overload afterwards - the noise, the anxiety, the exhaustion. But photography gives her purpose, and because she loves it so much, she pushes through."
She also runs a craft stall selling mugs, slates, notebooks, calendars and prints featuring her wildlife images. She hands out a business card explaining her autism and APD - something she says helps her feel understood and helps others feel represented.
If you're Inspired by Caitlyn's journey, Touch The Wild offers supportive wildlife photography workshops and safaris for all levels, led by Paul McDougall. Learn more and view upcoming dates at https://www.mcdougallphotographic.co.uk/