Photography is about connection. It’s about storytelling, emotion, and capturing the essence of a person in a single frame. But for far too long, individuals with disabilities or medical complexities have been left out of that story—or worse, made to feel unwelcome in professional photography spaces.
If you’re a portrait or family photographer, it’s time to change that.
Because Disability Is More Common Than You Think
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 1 in 4 Americans have some form of disability. Add in those who are elderly or medically fragile, and the number grows even larger. These aren’t niche clients—they’re part of every community, and they deserve to see themselves reflected in beautiful, intentional portraits.
Because Your Default Methods Might Not Work for Everyone
Typical posing instructions like “sit up straight” or “look over here and smile” may not be possible—or appropriate—for someone with sensory sensitivities, mobility aids, or communication differences. Learning how to adapt your lighting, posing, and communication strategies is essential to serving a wider audience with empathy and skill.
Because Parents and Caregivers Deserve Better
Too many families have horror stories of being turned away or made to feel like their child was “too difficult” to photograph. Others don’t even bother scheduling sessions, fearing judgment or frustration. As a photographer, you have the power to rewrite that experience—to create a space where families feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
Because Everyone Deserves to Be Photographed With Dignity
From children with autism who find calm in sensory-friendly setups, to teens in wheelchairs who want to look cool in their senior photos, to elderly individuals in hospice care—each person brings unique challenges and opportunities to the session. And with the right preparation, you can meet those moments with confidence and compassion.
Because Real Emotions Are What Matter Most
Working with clients who communicate differently often leads to some of the most authentic, heartfelt images you’ll ever take. When you slow down, listen more deeply, and meet people where they are, the emotional connection in your work becomes undeniable.
Learning how to photograph people with disabilities isn’t a niche skill—it’s part of being a well-rounded, compassionate professional.
As photographers, we can do more than take pretty pictures. We can reflect the beauty of all people, exactly as they are. Are you ready to expand your lens?
I’ve put together some things to consider when working with people with special needs:
1. Pre-Session Communication
- Accessibility Needs: Inquire about any specific accommodations required at the location, such as ramps, accessible restrooms, or seating arrangements.
- Mobility Considerations: Ask if the client uses mobility aids and whether they prefer to have them included in the photographs. Ensure the location is navigable for their specific needs.
- Sensory Sensitivities: Discuss any sensitivities to light, sound, or touch. This is crucial for clients with conditions like autism or sensory processing disorders.
- Communication Preferences: Determine the client’s preferred method of communication, whether verbal, written, sign language, or through an interpreter.
- Emotional Comfort: Create a space where clients feel safe to express any concerns or preferences regarding how they are portrayed.
2. During the Session
- Empowerment Through Posing: Collaborate with clients on poses that make them feel confident and authentic. Avoid positions that may cause discomfort or highlight limitations unless the client wishes to showcase them.
- Inclusion of Mobility Aids: If the client uses devices like wheelchairs or canes and wishes them to be part of the shoot, incorporate them naturally into the composition.
- Patience and Flexibility: Allow extra time for breaks or adjustments. Be prepared to adapt your approach based on the client’s comfort and energy levels.
- Avoiding Stereotypes: Steer clear of “inspiration porn”—portraying the client solely as an object of inspiration due to their disability. Focus on capturing their personality and story authentically.
3. Post-Session Considerations
Feedback Loop: Encourage clients to provide feedback on their experience, which can inform and improve future sessions.
Image Review: Offer clients the opportunity to review and select images they feel best represent them. This collaborative approach ensures their satisfaction and comfort with the final product.
Consent for Sharing: Obtain explicit consent before using any images for promotional purposes, ensuring clients are aware of where and how their images will be displayed.
Inclusive photography isn’t about charity—it’s about equity, representation, and professional growth. By learning how to photograph people with disabilities and medical complexities, we open our studios (and our hearts) to a wider world of stories waiting to be told. It’s not just good business—it’s the right thing to do.
If you’re a photographer using HoneyBook, I’ve made the questionnaire template available for anyone to use or adapt to their own workflow. Let’s keep pushing for more inclusive practices in our industry!
Please feel free to use it!
