by Carla Caruso

Animal lover Fran Mussared has reached a milestone, posting her one-thousandth image online.

Particularly known for her pictures of wildlife at Adelaide Zoo (Park 11), the hobbyist photographer also takes stunning snaps of our night skies and the weather.

Her shots are often shared by local media. But while photography is a passion for the 68-year-old from Prospect, it’s also recently proven a challenge for her.

“This past year [2022] has been an incredibly difficult year for me,” Fran says. “I was diagnosed with ocular myasthenia gravis in February – an autoimmune disease affecting my eyesight.

“So, taking photos has been incredibly difficult [including double, blurred vision and vertigo]. But I never stopped taking photos. With medication, my eyesight has finally stabilised.

“Unfortunately, [the condition] can progress to other parts of the body. It’s caused by a breakdown in the normal communication between nerves and muscles.”

It’s a condition that can’t be cured, only controlled. We’re grateful that, in spite of this, Fran continues to share her striking images online for all to enjoy.

Recently, we chatted to her about what motivates her, and about her other passion - your Park Lands.

*“The latest addition to the Hamadryas Baboon troop at Adelaide Zoo [Park 11]. So cute,” Fran writes.*

Hi, Fran. Why do you love capturing images of animals and skyscapes?

I’ve always taken photos, mainly holidays pics and of the children growing up. But in 2018, I decided to take my hobby more seriously. I bought a better camera and gear.

My main focus was zoo animals, but during [the COVID-19] lockdown in 2020, that needed to change.

At home, I’m fortunate to have a beautiful gum tree, full of birds. So, my interest shifted to photographing birds [for a while].

*Fran’s favourite, Kembali, at Adelaide Zoo (Park 11).*

How often do you frequent the Adelaide Park Lands, and why?

Adelaide Zoo [in Park 11] and the relationship I’ve developed with some of the animals is definitely high on my list in the Adelaide Park Lands.

I try to visit every week, sometimes more. If I’m lucky, Kembali the male tiger will give me a chuff [a friendly vocalisation] – a sign of affection. That’s incredibly special.

Adelaide Botanic Garden [also Park 11] for birds is a favourite park, which I visit once or twice a week. Watching birds nest and raise their young is always a pretty special experience.

Both of these parks are not far from where I live, making them easy just to pop in for a while. So, I’m very fortunate.

*A ‘beestagram’ by Fran in Adelaide Botanic Garden (Park 11).*

Any top tips you can pass on to aspiring photographers?

The best advice for budding photographers is to practise. You don’t need top-of-the-range equipment; you just have to get out there and take photos. [Fran uses a Canon R5 camera with a 100-500mm lens.]

I personally haven’t been keen on entering photographic competitions. All I want to be is a better photographer today than I was yesterday. So, just keep practising and learn from your mistakes.

*A night shot by Fran at Festival Plaza within Tarntanya Wama (****Park 26***).

What keeps you busy when you’re not behind the camera?

When I’m not taking photos, I put on my ‘grandma’ hat and look after my three grandchildren. [Previously, Fran made 3D acrylic signs in her own company.]

I’m hoping I can pass on my photographic skills to the grandkids – the next generation of budding photographers.