Photo Shoots: Understanding Challenges Faced by Neurodiverse Individuals

I have had many conversations lately with prospective clients who want a photo shoot, but are concerned for their autistic family member and how they will handle the situation.  On top of that, April is Autism awareness month and as an inclusive photography studio, I wanted to recognise the challenges that neurodiverse individuals may face during a professional photo shoot, but most importantly I’ll address how we try to minimise those challenges so they don’t become a barrier to booking that shoot.

To add an extra element to this subject, I’m writing this post not just as a professional photographer, but as a Mum to a pretty neuro-spicy household! (When you know, you know 😉).

Firstly, let’s face it - professional photo shoots can be overwhelming for anyone, but for some neurodiverse individuals, there may be additional concerns.

Let’s start with Sensory Sensitivities.  Some individuals may have heightened sensory sensitivities, which can make the bright lights, unusual noises and unfamiliar environments of a photo shoot uncomfortable.  Many parents of neurodiverse children can be worried about overstimulation leading to disregulation, meltdowns, shutdowns or any other form of distress.

Before every shoot with me I have an in depth meeting (with all my clients) around the shoot! I want to find out who’s coming along, find out a bit about their personality and what interests they have.  I want to get to know all my clients so I can better capture them authentically.  With any neurodivergent individuals, this is the perfect opportunity to discuss any sensory sensitivity’s, any triggers or any concerns in general and together we’ll think up appropriate strategies.

For example - lights beeping - no problem, actually I’m with you on this one, they’re really annoying!  In my studio light sounds are always turned off.

Lights flashing - now this is part of the process BUT lights can be reduced in power.   We can shoot on location with natural lighting (I am proficient in both styles of photography) and the same process applies.

Social Anxiety and communication struggles.  Now, I may present as a confident outgoing person - but trust me - I’m a very shy introvert and I understand that social interactions can be particularly challenging for neurodiverse individuals. The same applies to communication - we’ll discuss what works best for your situation, but typically I find simple, single instructions without too many steps work best, as does showing and getting the subject to mirror what I’d like them to do.

I allow plenty of time for my sessions so we have the option of plenty of down time if needed, play time (depending on ages).  My subjects don’t have to talk to me (no judgement) and you don’t even have to look at the camera.  A session is always a collaboration where we work together in creating shots.

Our studio has a comfortable viewing area that family members can hang out in if they’re not in the photos or if anyone wants some quiet time.  You are the only subjects in the studio during your session - so you have the place to yourself - make yourself at home.

Neurodiverse adults may struggle with planning, organization, and time management and therefore be put off with planning a shoot.   Our process involves plenty of communication throughout - from the initial enquiry to the final delivery of images.

We’re a small, independent studio - you are not far from a real human on the end of the phone, email or messaging system to answer any questions.  On top of that we’ll automatically send appointment reminders, talk in depth at the pre-shoot consultation, keep you updated with your orders and even have reminder phone calls (we won’t annoy you though).  We’ll have reminders of timings, locations and our shoot guide sent in pdf format answers lots of questions around clothing and the whole process.

The bottom line is that after 18 years as a portrait photographer (and neurodiversity informed) - my main aim is to make the experience as comfortable and pleasurable as possible, regardless of whether you’re neurotypical/neurodiverse.

Every shoot is tailored to my clients - I apply my same levels of patience, flexibility and kind nature to everyone.   For me it’s the soul reason we do what we do - to create an enjoyable experience that captures your authentic self in beautiful, timeless photographs.