As a Denver family photographer, I’m incredibly fortunate to work with some of the most kind and incredible families. Throughout the years as a photographer, I’ve worked hard to ensure I can serve my families regardless of their specific needs. Whether we’re taking photos of a young family with toddlers or an older family with teenagers, I strive to accommodate and adapt to the specific needs of the session, and that includes families with kids who have special needs.

Working with children with special needs as a family photographer requires patience, understanding, and a flexible approach. No matter the scenario, I strive to communicate openly while assuring families that I am happy to do anything I can to ensure everyone is comfortable and safe during our time together. Throughout this blog, I will detail some strategies and tips I use effectively to engage with families to ensure any needs are met during Denver family photos.

Optional Pre-Session Consultation

One of the most important steps to creating a collaborative and positive relationship is communication. With that in mind, I am always happy to have a pre-session consultation. This is a great way to sit down and discuss your family’s individual needs and goals for the session. Together, we can discuss any concerns, worries, or accommodations that may be required during Denver family photos. This helps establish a symbiotic working relationship while setting expectations and allowing all parties to be on the same page. A pre-session consultation is always a great way to help your children feel comfortable for our time together and meet me if needed! It also allows you to share any requests, accommodations or things I should consider during our session together. My goal for our time together is to create beautiful memories, and keep everyone happy!

Create a Comfortable Environment During Denver Family Photos

As a Denver local and photographer with years of experience, I recommend a variety of spots for more scenic photos. However, I understand that a location where the whole family will feel comfortable is often more important. When discussing locations for your photos, feel free to choose a familiar or comfortable location for your family. Your family’s overall comfort always takes priority, whether that’s a local park, your home, or another meaningful area. I encourage families to arrive early to give them ample time to acclimate to the space and explore. Wherever we take your photos, I am confident we will capture your family’s love timelessly.

Use Fun and Engaging Techniques

When working with families, I always love to incorporate games and activities. Not only does this help set the mood and excite your kiddos, but it also helps them stay engaged and ready for what’s up next. Not only do children respond incredibly well to games and activities, but they encourage natural interactions within your family to occur. However, it’s always great to let me know of any boundaries or limitations your child may have, so I don’t suggest something that would be problematic for them.

Sometimes it can be helpful for a child to bring a favorite toy or ‘lovee’ that you are ok being in photos, to help them feel comfortable and secure during your Denver family photos. Anything that helps them feel at ease is a benefit to getting the best smiles out of them! These strategies will undoubtedly lead to some of your favorite memories being captured!

Be Patient and Flexible During Denver Family Photos

Lastly and most importantly, I am always happy to stop and take a break during photos. Sometimes, when children are in a new environment with a stranger taking their photos – it can become overwhelming. If a break is needed to reset, I will always step back and let that happen naturally. I am open to parents also providing individual requests for what works best within their family. I understand that every child has specific needs, and I always do my best to meet those needs. Whether your kiddo is in an off mood or has lower energy levels, I will do my very best to accommodate and meet those needs. No matter the scenario, my goal stays the same -to help create an environment for fun and capture the memories being made.

I understand that scheduling family photos can be daunting, especially with children requiring extra attention. I promise to always happily assist and serve your kiddos the best I can. These moments with our children are fleeting, and while it may be difficult at times, these moments deserve to be remembered forever.

Are you ready to book your own Denver family photos? Check out my schedule today!