I feel like I have a connection with every family I photograph. Either their kids are the same age as mine, the husband says something that reminds me of my hubby, one of the kids makes a funny face that I regularly see. This family was special to me because their oldest son is on the autism spectrum. I’m very familiar with kids on the spectrum because both of my sweet and undeniably adorable nephews are on the spectrum. I understand how difficult if can be to get a “good” photo, capturing that connection you want to print big and hang on the wall. I understand how much anxiety must come along with the thought of investing in a photographer and then having the session just be completely overwhelming to your little ones resulting in not so good images. I also understand the financial bind most families with children diagnosed with autism are in because of all the intensive therapy, doctor visits and education that is required to help their children thrive. Because of this connection, I always offer a 25% discount to families with autism, as well as a no pressure agreement to reschedule as needed. I understand that the day we have scheduled might just be a really bad day for your little one. Don’t worry about it. We’ll wait until they’re having a good day. I understand that once we start, things might not work out as planned. That’s okay. We can try again if needed. My goal is to take all the anxiety away for you. I want you to enjoy your photo session. I want you to walk away with photos you will forever cherish. I want to capture the connection you share, the love in their face, and the smiles they give.

I asked permission from this session’s mom to mention all of this and if she’d be interested in writing something up about her experience. Here’s what she had to say:

He was diagnosed on the spectrum at age 2 with Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD-NOS). We feel very fortunate because he is high functioning but that’s not to say the past 4 years have been without struggles. Communication and the social interaction used to be a huge concern but thanks to Early Intervention and ABA therapy (I’m a huge advocate) he has made amazing strides! Within the past year the ADHD has been particularly challenging. Unfortunately ADHD goes hand-in-hand with Autism Spectrum disorders.

What has been very challenging for the family is trying to plan as much structure as possible for his day. This is not easy especially when going to unstructured events such as a photo session. This causes him increased anxiety which, for him, results in hyperactivity and sensory seeking behaviors. Though he has improved so much over the years. As an infant and toddler we didn’t get a lot of good professional photos just because he was often irritable and very busy. When we saw how “uncooperative” he was it just increased our anxiety as parents. A photographer who is working with a child on the Autism Spectrum needs to be very patient, versatile and engaging. Sometimes it takes a little more time to get that one good shot! You definitely possess the qualities that I think a photographer who is working with a child on the spectrum should have….patient, engaging and versatile.

Enjoy your sneak peek! I hope you love them as much as I do. I really enjoyed getting to know your family.

Started out with a cute family shot. Have I ever mentioned how thrilled I get when everyone looks at the camera? Seriously – that makes me soooooooooo happy.

Adorable, right? So cute!

I don’t think I’ve ever met a toddler who doesn’t like to swing on mom and dad’s hands.

Got these smiles after I asked them to say “strawberry cheese.” They thought that was FUN-NY.

Love it.

Mom and her boys. Love how it looks like the little one is puckering up for a BIG kiss.

Dad and his boys.

Had to show a couple “real” shots. These guys were cracking each other up with their faces. And this monster truck was a very important part of our session.

The easiest pics to get are the ones of just mom and dad. Ahhhh.

Tags: Beaverton Oregon Baby Photography, Beaverton Oregon Child Photography, Beaverton Oregon Family Photographer, Beaverton Oregon High School Senior Photographer, Krissy Allori Photography, Portland Oregon Baby Photography, Portland Oregon Child Photography, Portland Oregon Engagement Photographer, Portland Oregon Family Photographer, Portland Oregon High School Senior Photographer, Portland Oregon Maternity Photographer, Portland Oregon Wedding Photographer