Is sight a determinant to good photography? Perhaps no. A visually impaired student took a series of beautifully composed shots of a lush canopy of trees. When asked how he had framed the shots so precisely, he replied that he heard the wind rustle the leaves in a certain way and felt the sun's rays.

Iris and Kfir, both photographers with a strong social conscience, literally stumbled upon the idea on the Internet as they explored ways to contribute creatively to the community.

What they found was a fascinating account of blind photography in different parts of the world, including Japan where an exhibition of blind photography is sponsored by the emperor every year.

They decided to trial a programme in Israel. In collaboration with the Association for the Blind (Israel), they began working with a small group of seven students. Some were blind from birth while others had developed the condition during their life.

Iris and Kfir began by teaching the students the basic history of art and photography. They also taught students mechanics of using a camera, including special techniques etc.

The students were then equipped with instamatic cameras and films and assigned weekly tasks. The project started at the beginning of 2006 and has since expanded to 12 students, ranging from the ages of 20 up to 70.

They quickly discovered that the students had particularly heightened senses and a natural intuitive ability to grasp spatial perspective. They also had a keen feeling for sound, light and heat.

"Photography gives the blind a kind of common language that connects them to people who see,'" Kfir said.