Having a child with special needs can present fears or concerns when you want to have family photos taken. I’m here to tell you that there is no reason to have that stop you! Yes, the session will be approached slightly differently, but it’s a simple shift, and can make all the difference! Same goes for photographers who have a client with special needs. Here are five things I do differently during our session if you have a child with special needs:
I can create a “Hi! I’m Margy!” video for you to share with your child before the session, so they can see me and become familiar with me before we do photos. I understand sometimes new people, new routines and new places can be a hard transition, so any bit of familiarity before can help!
As a parent, make a list of a few things that you know help bring your child joy. Is that spinning, twirling, running or being thrown in the air? A bubble machine? Write them down beforehand so if the child is feeling unsure, we have a toolbox of things to help them shine!
If the child feels more comfortable in a parents arms the entire time—that is completely ok!! Wherever they feel safe is where they should be. If there is a wheelchair or limited mobility, we will center the session around them, and bring everyone close together and connected.
No one has to look at the camera. My goal is to capture your child in whatever they are interested in. I don’t need eye contact or verbal interaction to get wonderful images of your child. I go with the flow, and will never make the child do anything they aren’t comfortable doing.
Let’s help each other out! I am happy to jump on a phone call or video chat to make sure we are setting each other up for success.