As a sensory and Autism friendly photographer located on the Main Line of Philadelphia, I am deeply committed to creating an inclusive environment where every family can feel comfortable and have their precious memories documented. I believe everyone deserves to have their memories preserved, regardless of any sensory sensitivities or special needs.

Sensory and Autism Friendly Photo Sessions

Before I became a photographer, I spent years working as a teacher and an elementary librarian, where I had the privilege of working with children with sensory needs. I continue on in these roles to this day! Over the years, I developed specialized adapted library classes tailored specifically for kids with autism and other needs, ensuring all students had access to learning in a way that suited them best. This experience taught me the importance of understanding each child’s unique needs and creating a supportive, adaptable environment. I bring this same dedication and understanding to my photography, aiming to provide a calm, stress-free experience that allows every child and family to shine.

Understanding Sensory and Autism Needs

Kids with sensory processing challenges often have unique needs and sensitivities that can arise during a photo session. These can include sensitivities to light, sound, and touch. For example, the flash from a camera’s strobe light may be overwhelming, and loud or unfamiliar noises at a photoshoot location may be challenging. Clothing or props with irritating textures can also cause discomfort.

Children with autism or sensory processing disorders tend to thrive on structure and predictability. Frequent breaks and flexibility with the session’s timing are absolute musts. Communication can also be a key consideration—some children may use core language boards, or need alternative ways to understand posing directions. Many children benefit from visual support. If you’re a parent seeking a sensory and autism friendly photographer on Philadelphia’s Main Line who understands your child’s needs, here’s what I provide.

Preparation and Communication for Sensory and Autism Friendly Photo Sessions

We will discuss your child’s unique needs before our session. This is an opportunity for you to share your child’s preferences and your goals for the photoshoot. Together, we will choose a location and time that works best for your child. Depending on your child’s needs and age, I can provide a video that shows my camera and equipment so they can become familiar with what I’ll be using during the photo shoot. I can also create a social story—a tool often used in education—to help prepare your child for the session. You can read this interactive story with your child multiple times beforehand, helping to ensure a smooth and successful photoshoot. During this preparation period, I’m happy to discuss any concerns and ideas you may have to make the session as seamless as possible.

Creating a Comfortable and Inclusive Environment

My experience as a teacher has taught me to use core language boards, visual checklists, and clear visual prompts to support kids with diverse needs. Depending on what your child needs, I will bring these tools to our session to make it as enjoyable and successful as possible.

I also pay close attention to your child’s cues, allowing for breaks whenever necessary. I will also prepare your child for any transitions before we try something new or move to another spot. If certain poses aren’t working, I can quickly adapt and switch to a more candid approach—whatever will make your child most comfortable is my goal. We can also skip poses altogether and capture your family playing and just spending time together. I schedule 45-minute to 1 hour sessions to allow plenty of time for breaks, rest, and play.

If your child has light or sound sensitivities, I can avoid using a flash or play white noise. If they have a favorite song, we can play that, too. The key to photographing kids is flexibility! With open communication before your session, we can ensure we meet as many of your child’s needs as possible.

A Supportive and Understanding Approach

As a mom, teacher, and photographer, I truly understand the unique needs your child might have, and I want you to feel completely comfortable with me. I know every child is different, and I am here to provide a supportive, understanding environment. Whatever happens during our session—whether it’s a meltdown, a need for a break, or a change in plans—I have likely experienced it before and am more than ready to adjust and work through it together. I’m here for you and genuinely want to make this a positive experience for your family.

Please reach out if you are looking for a sensory and autism-friendly photographer on the Main Line or in the surrounding Philadelphia suburbs. I’m passionate about inclusion and would love to work with you to ensure you have a great photo session! Check out some past sessions while you are here!