lifestyle special needs photography
Hi, my name is
Jessica
Lifestyle
Storyteller - Special Needs Photographer
As a photographer, one of my greatest joys is helping families capture meaningful moments, and that’s especially true when working with families who have children with special needs.
I deeply understand that stepping in front of the camera can be a bit overwhelming, and it can come with its own set of challenges for families with children who may need extra accommodations. My goal is to create a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and at ease.
Here’s a little bit about how I approach these sessions with care, understanding, and flexibility to ensure your family’s experience is as comfortable and joyful as possible.
Testimonial
“Coming from a family who has a kiddo with special needs, this was the most sincere and calm session I’ve ever experienced. Jessica took the time to get to know us as a family and individuals and it shows within her work!
She came prepared with items that helped make the session seamless and helped my son remain happy and willing to participate. If you have any doubts about family photos, you won’t with Jessica! I will continue to go through Jessica for all our family photos!"
Meeting Each Child Where They Are
Every child is different, and that is such a beautiful thing. I will take the time to get to know each family before our session, so I can understand what will make your child feel most comfortable and engaged.
I listen closely to parents and work to understand any specific sensory preferences, communication styles, or other unique qualities that make your child who they are. This allows me to tailor the session to fit your child’s needs, meeting them exactly where they are, without forcing them into a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
Some children may feel more comfortable with gentle prompts, while others may prefer a more hands-off approach where they can explore and interact freely. Whatever their pace, I’m here to adjust to them, making sure they feel safe and respected throughout the session.
This is our process:
I. Creating a Relaxed and Supportive Atmosphere.
One of my main goals as a photographer is to foster an environment where both kids and parents feel at ease. I know that the prospect of a photo session can sometimes bring up worries about how things will go, especially if you’re concerned about your child’s comfort or behavior.
That’s why I aim to keep things low-pressure and laid-back, focusing on capturing your family in a way that feels authentic and true to who you are.
For children who may experience sensory sensitivities, I make adjustments to ensure the environment is as calming as possible. This might include using fun light up stimulants, avoiding loud or sudden noises, and giving them plenty of time to adjust to me and the camera. We take things at their pace, allowing breaks as needed and going with the flow to keep the session as stress-free as possible.
II. Using Tools and Techniques to Keep Engagement High.
One thing I’ve learned as mom of a child with special needs, and working with other families like mine - is that sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest difference. I come prepared with gentle, engaging toys, like light-up or sound toys that may capture their attention without overwhelming them. These are not only wonderful for sparking joy, but they also help keep children focused in a way that feels natural and fun.
If your child has a particular toy, item, or activity that brings them comfort or helps them stay engaged, I welcome you to bring it along. Familiar objects can be a great source of comfort and provide a sense of security during the session. I’m always open to learning what works best for your child and will happily incorporate those elements into our time together.
III. Working Hand-in-Hand with Parents.
You know your child better than anyone, and I value your insight as the most important guide for making our session a success. I make it a point to have an open line of communication with parents before and during the session, so I can understand what will help your child feel at ease.
Whether it’s knowing what helps them relax, what sounds or sights they enjoy, or how they respond to certain situations, I take your lead and let you guide me in the best ways to connect with your child.
Together, we create a space where you can relax too, knowing that there’s no pressure to “perform” or “act” a certain way. I understand that kids may have their own timelines and that it may take a bit of patience to capture the moments we’re hoping for. I’m here to be flexible, understanding, and supportive every step of the way.
Embracing Authenticity in Every Moment
Some of the most beautiful photos are the ones that come naturally, without forcing anything. For families with special needs, this often means leaning into whatever moments feel right and not worrying about “perfect” poses or “ideal” smiles. I strive to capture your family exactly as you are—whether that’s a shared smile, a quiet moment of eye contact, or a little laugh that happens when no one is looking.
These moments are the real treasures, and they reflect the unique bond and love that you share. I aim to document the small, authentic moments that tell the story of who your family is, capturing the love, resilience, and joy that makes your journey so meaningful.
Let’s Create a Session That Feels Right for Your Family
Every family deserves to feel seen and celebrated, and it’s my honor to create a welcoming, calm environment where you can just be yourselves. I’m here to make sure that your photo session is a positive experience from start to finish, filled with patience, flexibility, and understanding.
If you’re ready to document this season of life with your amazing child, I’d love to work together to create something meaningful. Let’s capture the unique spirit of your family in a way that feels true to you, celebrating the love and joy that fills your days.
