Crashing waves, some bubbles, but most importantly "The Cha-Cha Slide"
Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing moments for a family who, despite facing the challenges of a devastating fire during a pregnancy, found an abundance of joy in our session.
This family of three (soon-to-be four) is preparing to leave island due to the aftermath of the fire. The uncertainty of relocating added an unspoken emotional layer to our session, but amidst the bittersweet atmosphere, I discovered the sheer magic of working with their 6-year-old son, Mauricio, who happens to be on the autism spectrum.
From the moment we began, it was evident that Mau brought a special energy to the shoot. His enthusiasm and candid expressions added an unparalleled authenticity to the photographs. It's moments like these that remind me of the power of capturing genuine emotions.
Parents of neurodivergent children often express reservations about photoshoots, nervous that their child's unique needs might pose challenges. However, working with Mauricio was an absolute delight. His unfiltered joy and boundless curiosity turned the session into an adventure, filled with laughter.
Photographing a child with autism requires a patient and understanding approach. It's about creating an environment where they feel comfortable and allowing their individuality to shine. In Mau's case, we embraced his love for the crashing waves, some bubbles, but most importantly "The Cha Cha slide" incorporating them into an impromptu dance party. The resulting images beautifully reflected the family's bond and his personality.
To parents who might feel hesitant
about getting professional photos taken of their neurodivergent children, I want to emphasize that each child is a unique masterpiece, deserving to be celebrated. The key is to find a photographer who understands and appreciates the beauty of diversity.
My session with this family reinforced the idea that every family, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to have their story documented. The impending move added a layer of significance to the images, preserving a moment in time as they prepared to embark on a new chapter.
As Mau and his family pack their bags for California, I'm grateful to have been a part of their journey, capturing the essence of their love. Through the lens, I witnessed the strength of a family facing change and the pure, unbridled joy of a little boy named Mauricio. I hope their story inspires others to embrace the beauty of their own unique narratives, and may the photographs serve as cherished mementos of moments that transcend time.
