I believe Every Child is beautiful and perfect. Just the way they are.
Over time I have worked with children with both miild-moderate and moderate-severe autism, cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome, ADHD, processing disorders and behaviors. During this time, I saw a need for a different kind of photographer- one who understands the needs of special children. I'll never know everything. But this is the way I work:
First, I meet with you and your child, or children. I can learn about your child, their likes, dislikes, any sensitivities (such as light or noise), fixations, ticks, and what motivates them. I'll learn about their developmental level, so I can relate to them. I will show them my camera, and allow them to get to know me. I am not above using bribes with a child to elicit a smile, so at this time I will ask you what is appropriate. I want to know what behavior to look for if your child is becoming over-stimulated. It is vitally important that we be on the same page, so both you and your child feel comfortable with me.
On the day of the shoot, the first half hour or so is spent re-introducing myself and my camera, maybe letting them snap a few pictures of you, to get the feel of it. We will play! Sometimes a visual cue helps snap them back to me, particularly with autistic children. If they have a favorite toy, I may place it on my lens. I use props..., and silliness when necessary! In most cases, I set the shoot at your home, because it familiar and comfortable for your child. Also, you have everything you need at your fingertips, unlike having to carry special supplies with you to a studio.
Family and pets are very welcome! In fact, I encourage you all to be available and ready for pictures. Not only will your child feel more at ease, but these images showing your relationship as a family and with your children are so priceless. I work very well with pets, too... and consider them family members. As long as they are comfortable with the proceedings, please feel free to include them!
You never have to apologize for the behavior of your child. I understand, and even expect behaviors to arise! Heck, that's a given with almost any child. A shoot may take longer than than usual, but patience is the name of the game. It is much easier to flow with the child than to try to place them into a pre-determined story. My props are minimal, and we try to use the familiar, like bubbles. Parks are nice if it is one that you feel comfortable with. The idea is to be in a safe, worry-free environment. It is important that your child view the day's event as a fun experience so they want to do it again!
Portfolio available upon request, at your appointment.
Over time I have worked with children with both miild-moderate and moderate-severe autism, cerebral palsy, Downs Syndrome, ADHD, processing disorders and behaviors. During this time, I saw a need for a different kind of photographer- one who understands the needs of special children. I'll never know everything. But this is the way I work:
First, I meet with you and your child, or children. I can learn about your child, their likes, dislikes, any sensitivities (such as light or noise), fixations, ticks, and what motivates them. I'll learn about their developmental level, so I can relate to them. I will show them my camera, and allow them to get to know me. I am not above using bribes with a child to elicit a smile, so at this time I will ask you what is appropriate. I want to know what behavior to look for if your child is becoming over-stimulated. It is vitally important that we be on the same page, so both you and your child feel comfortable with me.
On the day of the shoot, the first half hour or so is spent re-introducing myself and my camera, maybe letting them snap a few pictures of you, to get the feel of it. We will play! Sometimes a visual cue helps snap them back to me, particularly with autistic children. If they have a favorite toy, I may place it on my lens. I use props..., and silliness when necessary! In most cases, I set the shoot at your home, because it familiar and comfortable for your child. Also, you have everything you need at your fingertips, unlike having to carry special supplies with you to a studio.
Family and pets are very welcome! In fact, I encourage you all to be available and ready for pictures. Not only will your child feel more at ease, but these images showing your relationship as a family and with your children are so priceless. I work very well with pets, too... and consider them family members. As long as they are comfortable with the proceedings, please feel free to include them!
You never have to apologize for the behavior of your child. I understand, and even expect behaviors to arise! Heck, that's a given with almost any child. A shoot may take longer than than usual, but patience is the name of the game. It is much easier to flow with the child than to try to place them into a pre-determined story. My props are minimal, and we try to use the familiar, like bubbles. Parks are nice if it is one that you feel comfortable with. The idea is to be in a safe, worry-free environment. It is important that your child view the day's event as a fun experience so they want to do it again!
Portfolio available upon request, at your appointment.