Celebrating Neurodivergent Families: Creating a Comfortable and Inclusive Photography Experience with DC and Maryland Family Photographer

Being a parent, educator, and photographer gives me a unique look at the people around me. I have the honor of knowing so many people from so many places and walks of life. It is such a beautiful gift. Seeing how people move about the world also gives me a unique perspective when it comes to photography and creating an always inclusive space for individuals who love someone who is neurodivergent. Everyone is one-of-a-kind and it is important to me that all families know the joy of capturing photos to treasure in their home. So, today I want to share how I work to make my sessions inclusive for everyone. I hope it inspires a family who is nervous about photos to feel more confident planning a session for their loved ones! 

What is Neurodivergence? 

I promise not to go full-on teacher here, but it’s important to understand what I mean when I say “neurodivergent”. When I use that term, I’m referring to anyone who experiences or processes the world a little differently. Oftentimes, that’s individuals who live with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders. These processing differences may make it more difficult to be in an unfamiliar setting or with someone who they don’t know. They may also feel less comfortable in a session or need different methods of communication to feel fully safe. In a session or out of it, patience, adaptability, and open communication are key to creating a positive experience for someone who is neurodivergent.

Pre-Session Communication for Photos

As a photographer, my goal is to make everyone comfortable with me. Whether that’s someone with processing differences or your shy 4 year old. Whoever it is, I want the time we spend together to be enjoyable! Part of how I accomplish that is by having pre-session consultations with my families. Everyone completes a questionnaire for me so I can be prepared to bring your little one’s favorite songs on my phone – or know that we need to be mindful of something that could be triggering or sensitive to your family. Understanding what’s important to you is a huge part of my process. 

If we are planning a session with an individual who is neurodivergent, we will also work to create an environment that is comforting to them.  This might involve choosing a familiar location, incorporating favorite items or activities, or adjusting the schedule to accommodate energy levels and sensory sensitivities. Whatever it is we need to do, I’m open to it. 

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment

At the end of the day, you know what will be best for your family.  Choosing a sensory-friendly environment is key for a session with someone who is neurodivergent. Now is not the time to go to the new beach or park (most likely). Instead, think about where they like to be. It might be your home, it might be somewhere quiet – or just somewhere familiar. The right environment can make a big difference in helping everyone feel at ease. Managing sensory overload is also critical, so I will always do my best to avoid bright lights, loud noise, or crowded places. Feel free to bring along anything that would make your family more comfortable – including headphones, fidgets, or other tools! We can always slow down and take breaks. Like any session, I let little ones lead – and I follow the same principle here. No one will ever feel rushed or like they can’t take a moment if they need it. 

During Our Session

In addition to creating a sensory-friendly environment, I want to assure you that my job is to keep things calm and natural. In all of my sessions, I prioritize genuine interactions over everyone smiling directly at me. So, this can help make the idea of a photo session way easier. I tend to prompt my families or rely on their normal life together, which can also feel less jarring or overwhelming. I want everyone to be themselves. Whether it’s a child stimming, running around, or needing a moment to themselves, these behaviors are respected and embraced by me. I promise! 

Creating an inclusive environment for everyone to feel safe and have the family photos they want (and deserve) truly matters to me. I want your family to feel comfortable and enjoy our time together! If you’re ready to book – or maybe unsure, please don’t hesitate to reach out and talk with me about your concerns. We’ll work together to create a photography experience that feels meaningful to your family!

Ready to book your family’s photos for 2024? Let’s talk!

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