Mother, Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu's family

"I've been bitten and scratched many times."



This crying boy is Qiu Ge. He has a twin brother named Qiu Yu. The boys and their family lived in bliss – until they were two. That's when their happiness was shattered. Both twins were diagnosed with autism.



The photos here are a record of Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu's lives. They were captured by Chinese public photographer, Cheng Xu.



Cheng Xu, Photographer

"I began my photography career in 2008. About two years in, I began focusing on autistic children. I'm a father. So I realize that the parents of autistic kids have more challenges than most others. Capturing these families in photos has become my passion."



Cheng began taking pictures of Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu in 2010. For the past six years, he's recorded their development in pictures. Cheng has also captured how autism has affected the overall family.



Mother, Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu's family

"We've known Mr. Cheng for six years. At first, I thought he'd photograph us in just one or two sessions. But he continuously stayed in touch for years after."



This year, Cheng picked up his camera and paid the family another visit. The twins were getting bigger. And their energy and enthusiasm was becoming a handful at times.



Father, Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu's family

"It's hard enough taking care of two children. Taking care of two autistic children is even harder. Sometimes, you can't pay attention to both of them at once. If they lose their tempers, it's tough to calm them down."



Cheng Xu, Photographer

"Unlike other youngsters, autistic children are not able to communicate well with the photographer. That's why I do a lot of research about their condition beforehand. When I first arrived at the twins' home, I brought some food and toys they might enjoy. With a little help from their parents, I was able to capture many meaningful moments with my camera."



The family of Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu is just one of many families that Cheng has been following. In the past six years, he has chronicled 100 families and taken more than 20,000 photos. His photos tell the growth and stories of autistic children. It has also triggered public awareness of the needs of autistic children. Cheng is now busy preparing his 7th exhibition. Although he may not change the lives of these kids, he still insists on trying to help.



Father, Qiu Ge and Qiu Yu's family

"I think Mr. Cheng coming to film our family is really helpful. Mang people saluted us after they saw the photos. And they also gave us a lot of help."



Cheng Xu, Photographer

"I hope my photos are powerful. I want to accurately show how these families live. My pictures have helped these autistic children get the support they need. I feel very happy and also very thankful."