Photographing children with Special Needs

Photographing children with Special Needs

Booking a photo session for children with special needs

Booking a family session is hard because most parents wonder whether their child is going to behave and smile properly.

Photographing children with special needs is even harder because it’s such an unfamiliar experience.  As a parent you are worrying about your child, and how they are going to react. Whether they will cope with a completely new environment and allow anyone to take their photo.

I know lots of families that thought having family photos were out of their reach.  I have been able to help them and I can help you too.

newborn and family photography in horsham and west sussex

Why should you book your session with me?

For the last few years I have worked at a local special needs school. This means I have many way to be able to help you.  I work as a photographer part time because I’m not ready to give up my job at the school.  So, being able to photograph children with special needs is amazing because it brings both of my jobs together.

I understand some of the challenges that you face.  Together, we will work hard to ensure your session is as relaxing as possible, for your entire family.

How will I be able to help?

To ensure that you get the session and memories that you’re after I send you a questionnaire.  This helps me collect information about your family.  The more you can tell me, the more I can prepare.  The session can be run in your own home, outside, or at my home studio. Wherever you feel it will be easier.

Before the session I can also send you a social story, if you think this will help your child to proces the day.  I’m also happy to  discuss other ways to help your child feel more comfortable.  It’s completely up to you. We can even arrange to me up or a visit to my home studio.  Just let me know.

school photos for wheelchair users

How will the session work?

First of all, you choose if you’d like me to come to your home, or you to the studio.

I can take natural photos of you all interacting as a family, in familiar surroundings.  Or, I can bring lights and backdropsf or a studio style photo session.

I will come to your home and quietly set up while your children get used to me.

Session that are run in my home studio have everything set up prior to you arriving.  When your children come in they can take their time to settle in and get used to their new surroundings.

Wherever the session is,  it is meant to be as relaxing as possible.  This means if it take your child 45 mins to settle in then that’s absolutely fine.  With your direction I will help your child to feel settled enough to have their photo taken.

Some children come in and end up playing with some toys while the family are around them.  I won’t be expecting your children to be looking at me but I will do my best to capture them looking at the camera.

My job is to capture some natural photos with you all interacting as a family!

You are welcome to bring anything with you that will help your children to feel relaxed.

photographing children with autism

I hope this helps you to understand a little bit more about what happens during a family photo session. If you’d like more information about booking a photo session for children with special needs either visit my Family Photography page HERE or email me at clairewildersphotography@gmail.com

newborn baby photographer Horsham

End of life dog Celebration Photography

End of life dog Celebration Photography

End of life dog Celebration Photography

It is so hard coming to terms with the fact that our pet will not be with us forever. It is so important to capture memories, so that we can remember them when they are gone.

I lost my Springer Spaniel, in 2023,  when she was 17 years old. I was devastated!  She had been poorly for a little while, but this didn’t make it easier.

Luckily I knew this day was coming, so I made the most of recording memories.  Bailey loved being outside, so, with my children, we went for a walk to Buchan Park, Crawley, West Sussex.

end of life pet photography

 

Even at the end, Bailey still wanted to be out and about.  She couldn’t walk very far and would fall over but she was so happy, and she just wanted to be outside with us.

This is when we had to resort to a trailer, so that she when she got tired, she could sit down and have a rest.

end of lifr photography for dogs

At the end this was a typical dog walk… and I wanted to make some memories.  Bailey just loved sniffing, plodding and chasing the ball when she could.

 

When this got to much she’d enjoy sitting in the trailer, just watching the world go by and enjoying cuddles from passer by’s.

 

Gorgeous boys at an outdoor family photo session.

 

Once she knew the trailer was there for here she would sit down when she was tired and start to wriggle around once she was bored of being in it and wanting to get out. 

As embarrassing as this was for my children, it meant that Bailey could still join us for  walk but get new smells and visit different places, even if she couldn’t walk all the way there.

 

dog in a trailer end of life photography

How does an end of life dog session work?

 

Prior to the session, we arrange a date to meet up and discuss what type of session you’d like.  This can be a session indoors, in the comfort of your dogs own home, my home studio or outside at their favourite place.  

The session will last an hour but you can book a double session if you prefer a bit longer. Click HERE for more details.

We will discuss who is attending your session because you can bring other family members.. so that we can create as many memories as possible.  The more the merrier.

I will also email over some clothing ideas, for the humans… although dogs are welcome to wear what they want.  This includes information about ideal colours and using as few patterns as possible, to ensure you have timeless photos.  Ultimately though, as long as you are comfortable, anything goes.

These sessions are about your pet, you and your family, so it’s important that you wear something that represents who you are.

Outdoor sessions will only be cancelled if the session is heavily raining.  A little bit of rain just makes for a fun session!

end of life pet photography

My session is about natural photos of your pet and their interations with you and your family.

elderly dog photography

 

If you have any questions please do visit my family page by clicking  HERE and complete the contact form or email me at clairewildersphotography.co.uk

 

I hope you like my photos, I would love to have the opportunity of creating some fabulous memories for your family.

elderly dog photography

What happens during a newborn session

What happens during a newborn session

Booking a Relaxed New Baby Photo Session, West Sussex

So, what happens during a newborn session?

First of all, booking a new baby photo session is a big deal. Why? Because you are trusting your photographer with your most priced possession… your brand new baby!!  So, this is a responsibility that I do not take lightly.  I have children of my own, so I know how precious that are!

I absolutely love running these photo sessions because it’s capturing your first moments as a new family, whether it’s your 1st, 2nd, 5th child, they’re all magical.  It doesn’t matter whether look exhausted or haven’t lost the baby weight, it’s about capturing these new moments for you to look back on with your baby in many years to come.

 

newborn and family photography in horsham and west sussex

How do i know when to book a newborn baby session?

You can either book me as soon as you’ve had your 1st can or once the baby is born, although life at this born can get pretty hectic.  Once you contact me, I book you in for your due date, or as soon as possible if your baby has already arrived.

To secure the booking I do require the session fee upfront, as I do book up quickly and we want to take the photos as soon as possible.

I send you a questionnaire which allows me to prepare for your session and allows you to choose where the session is run. You can also choose backdrop and prop colours plus it allows you to give me any additional information you’d think I need.  You will also receive a welcome pack which explains about the session and how to choose the correct clothes to compliment each other.

Once baby has arrived, you then let me know and I booked you in within two weeks.  This was we capture all the tiny details and first memories of you little baby.  

What happens during the session?

LOCATION

Once your baby has arrived we then decide where to run the session.

If you’re local to Horsham, I am happy to come to your house.

I bring the props, backdrops and wraps etc with me, then run it in the comfort of your own home.  I need some natural light to work with but I don’t need a huge amount of space.  For the family photos I use a pop up backdrop or your sofa for some natural photos.  Having it in your home can incorporate your nursery too and make the most of capturing those first memories at home.  If you feel your house is a bit messy then I can still come to you but just use the backdrops, so none of your house is seen…. and don’t worry I’m a parent so know the carnage of having a new baby!!

Below are some photos taken in peoples home…

The other option is my home studio.  Here we have studio lighting set up for the family photos and then baby on their own.  I provide all the props, backdrops, clothes and wraps etc.  You just get to sit back and watch me work.  Normally we like them to be fed, either, just before you arrive, or once you arrive to me.  This way they’ll be ready to sleep and we can capture lots of dreamy photos.  Or, if they’d rather stay awake, we can have some gorgeous awake photos.

THE SESSION

The session itself is very relaxed and completely baby led.  If we need to stop for feeding, cuddles or a nappy change that’s absolutely fine.  Some parents have come to have their baby photos and even fallen asleep because it’s the first time they’ve been able to sit down without having to worry about their baby…

During my sessions I start off with family photos. Followed by indvidual photos of baby with mum, dad and then any siblings that have come along.  Once this is complete everyone else can relax and it’s just baby for their photos.  During this time I do a variety of different poses, using props and blankets plus hats, hairbands and clothing.  I don’t force your baby into any position, so if they don’t like it, we move on.  This is why each gallery is completely different.

Eventually, we end with the naked baby shots and lots of parents worry that your baby is going to have an accident on my blanket or prop…. don’t worry because this DOES happen and all of my props CAN be cleaned.  I’m used to poop!  That’s just part of it when you’re dealing with naked babies.

Gorgeous boys at an outdoor family photo session.

When do I get my photos

 

VIEWING YOUR PHOTOS

 

After the session, I aim to get your photos back to you within 2-3 weeks.  The edited gallery will have around 30 digital images.

There are two options available.

The first, is to come to me and we go through your photos on a large screen, without any watermark covering your photos.  Being able to see your photos in this manner is very special and I’ve had many families needing tissues. 

We can discuss your option of prints and digitals, wall art and albums. Ensuring you get the best deal and leave with your photos ready to download.  All of the pricing is on my website, as well as attached to emails that you receive. This way, there are no hidden surprises when it comes to purchasing a package or wall art.

I don’t do a hard sell, when you meet me you’ll realise this is not in my nature. I am also happy to discuss payments plans if you would prefer to spread the cost over a few months.

The photos sell themselves and you’ll see my products during your session, so you’ll have a chance to see what you’d like to purchase.

Any digital images will be available to you for digital download once you’ve purchased your package, prior to receiving your prints.

The second option, is to have a private online gallery.  This comes with an email link and password but your photos will have a watermark over them until a purchase has been made.  You can view your photos at your own leisure but delivery can take longer.

PRICES

The packages are the cheapest option because these include digital images PLUS discounts to wall art.

To view the PRICE LIST please click HERE

 

 

I hope this helps you to understand a little bit more about what happens during a newborn photo session but if you’d like more information either visit my Newborn Photography page HERE or by emailing me at clairewildersphotography@gmail.com

Newborn Photography Horsham, Photographer West Sussex, Newborn Photographer Horsham

 

If you have any questions please do visit my family page by clicking  HERE and complete the contact form or email me at clairewildersphotography.co.uk

 

I hope you like my photos, I would love to have the opportunity of creating some fabulous memories for your family.

what happens during a newborn photo session
A relaxed family photo session

A relaxed family photo session

Booking a Relaxed Family Photo Session, West Sussex

How many photos do you have where you’re all in them? That aren’t selfies?

By booking an hour session it’s completely tailor made to you!

You can have it with just immediate family, grandparents and cousins etc, even your pets.  It’s completely up to you. And you can have the session where you like.

These are your memories.

Outdoor family photo session

This family wanted some lovely photos indoors, before heading out for some family fun time, with a short walk.

By being in the clients home the boys were able to relax and show me their toys, which we included in the session.  We could also do a mixture of photos to include a plain backdrop plus some just relaxing on the sofa having fun.

Once the children were getting bored we then wrapped up warm and head outside for a walk with their dog.

 

As you can see my sessions are designed to be fun and capture some wonderful family memories… where everyone is included.

 

Feel free to get in touch to book your relaxed family photo session.  We can then decide where you’d like to have your session.  Do you have a favourite walk, place to visit or even at my home studio.. the choice is yours.

There are so many beautiful areas in Sussex!  Mine has always been Tilgate or the beach but recently a client introduced me to Leechpool Woods, in the Autumn, which was stunning!

Or, if you have a favourite area to walk your dog, let me know as we may be able to head there for your photo session.

Being outside is ideal for families because it enables your children to be free.  They are able to be themselves and play, ensuring natural images.

 

outdoor family photography in horsham

Who’s invited?

 

Its your session, so it’s up to you.  I love it when I get to meet, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nephews etc..

Gorgeous boys at an outdoor family photo session.

The questionnaire

 

If you decide to book with me, I will send you a questionnaire to gather information about your family and what you would like to out of your session. This enables me to ensure I meet you needs and that you get the most out of the session.

I also ask for information such as children’s names, ages, hobbies etc, as it’s allows me to chat with them, when we meet and put them at ease.

I have my own children, so I am not expecting yours to be little angels.  Don’t worry if it takes them a while to get used to me.  The more relaxed you are, the easier it is for the children.

As well as photography, I also work in a school for children with special needs, so please do let me know if your child has any additional needs. I will ensure that the session is adapted to their needs.

 

How does the session work?

 

Prior to the session, we arrange a date to meet up, which will only be cancelled if the session is heavily raining.  A little bit of rain just makes for a fun session!

The session will last an hour but you can book a double session if you prefer a bit longer. I also offer indoor/outdoor sessions where you can have a studio style session and then head out for a walk.  Click HERE for more details.

We will discuss who is attending your session because you can bring pets or other family members.  The more the merrier.

I will also email over some clothing ideas.  This includes information about ideal colours and using as few patterns as possible, to ensure you have timeless photos.  Ultimately though, as long as you are comfortable, anything goes.

These sessions are about you and your family, so it’s important that you wear something that represents who you are.

Once we meet for the session, we will head off for your walk, allowing the children to have fun.  I will take a mixture of photos, some natural, photographing the children as they play and interact with you.  Plus, some more formal ones by stopping along the way, making the most of the stunning backdrop.

Dogs are an important part of any family, so they are always welcome to come along for the session.

Outdoor Family Photo Sessions in West Sussex

 

If you have any questions please do visit my family page by clicking  HERE and complete the contact form or email me at clairewildersphotography.co.uk

 

I hope you like my photos, I would love to have the opportunity of creating some fabulous memories for your family.

Mothers Day Photos

Mothers Day Photos

How many photos does your family have of you?

I recently went to a celebration of life, for a friend of mine.  She was far too young to have been taken from this world. She lived life to the full it and it showed…

 

When I walked through the doors where her celebration took place, it hit me…

 

 

 

 

 

Price List and Products Claire Wilders Photography Photo session

Every single wall was covered with photos of her.  It was a wonderful picture to see and we spent so long looking through those memories.  All the adventures she had been on, all the moments that she had lived! Her legacy will live on! 

I’m not so sure my family cound do the same.  Being on the other side of the lens is not a place I like to be!

But, these photos reminded me that its not about me, it’s about the people I leave behind.

Will my children be able to look back and see me in our adventures? We’ve done so many things together but I’m always the one to take the photos.

My friend had so many memories and there were so many of them together having fun as a family!  Living life! 

It breaks my heart that her children are going through something, that no child should but it warmed my heart that they could look back at these amazing memories, that will live on forever!

MOTHERS DAY PHOTOS

 

How many of your photos include you? OR your parents? What photos will your children have to look back on?

 

I run both in studio and outdoor sessions.

 

Everyone should have photos of you in them!  We are getting older every day and don’t know whats around the corner.  If you prefer a calm indoor session, look at my Mothers Day Photo Sessions  and Fathers Day Sessions .  If you like a more crazy, potentially chaotic session, then have a look at my Autumn SessionsBluebell Mini Sessions are outside but they are calmer because we cannot have children running through the bluebells.

 

How to book

 

Mothers Day Photo Sessions can be purchased as a gift voucher by emailing me at clairewildersphotography@gmail.com or by booking a date using the link HERE 

For current prices please click HERE

outdoor family photography in horsham

Who’s invited?

 

Its your session, so it’s up to you.  We need to celebrate whoever is special to you.  A mini session is 20 minutes, a family session is an hour.  You can also book a double session, if you fancy a walk or a mixture of set ups.

Gorgeous boys at an outdoor family photo session.

The questionnaire

 

If you decide to book with me, I will send you a questionnaire to gather information about your family and what you would like to out of your session. This enables me to ensure I meet you needs and that you get the most out of the session.

I also ask for information such as children’s names, ages, hobbies etc, as it’s allows me to chat with them, when we meet and put them at ease.

I have my own children, so I am not expecting yours to be little angels.  Don’t worry if it takes them a while to get used to me.  The more relaxed you are, the easier it is for the children.

As well as photography, I also work in a school for children with special needs, so please do let me know if your child has any additional needs. I will ensure that the session is adapted to their needs.

 

How does the session work?

 

Prior to the session, we arrange a date to meet up, which will only be cancelled if the session is heavily raining.  A little bit of rain just makes for a fun session!

The session will last an hour but you can book a double session if you prefer a bit longer. I also offer indoor/outdoor sessions where you can have a studio style session and then head out for a walk.  Click HERE for more details.

We will discuss who is attending your session because you can bring pets or other family members.  The more the merrier.

I will also email over some clothing ideas.  This includes information about ideal colours and using as few patterns as possible, to ensure you have timeless photos.  Ultimately though, as long as you are comfortable, anything goes.

These sessions are about you and your family, so it’s important that you wear something that represents who you are.

Multi Aperture - 30x30 inch - £525
Price List and Products
Outdoor Family Photo Sessions in West Sussex

 

If you have any questions please do visit my family page by clicking  HERE and complete the contact form or email me at clairewildersphotography.co.uk

 

I hope you like my photos, I would love to have the opportunity of creating some fabulous memories for your family.

How do outdoor family photo sessions work?

How do outdoor family photo sessions work?

Outdoor Family Photo Sessions, West Sussex

I’m so glad that you have visited my website because this means that you’re thinking about an outdoor family photo session.  So, you have come to the right place!

I love outdoor family photo sessions because they allow children to relax and be in a place that they feel comfortable.  There is no pressure to “perform” and you’ll be surprised how quickly they start to pose for me, because they’re having fun.

 

Family in bluebells West Sussex

Outdoor session venues

 

Do you have a favourite place to go? If so, let me know and we can discuss whether it is possible for me to travel to your favourite area, or I can choose a suitable place for you.

There are so many beautiful areas in Sussex!  Mine has always been Tilgate or the beach but recently a client introduced me to Leechpool Woods, in the Autumn, which was stunning!

Or, if you have a favourite area to walk your dog, let me know as we may be able to head there for your photo session.

Being outside is ideal for families because it enables your children to be free.  They are able to be themselves and play, ensuring natural images.

 

outdoor family photography in horsham

Who’s invited?

 

Its your session, so it’s up to you.  I love it when I get to meet, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nephews etc..

Gorgeous boys at an outdoor family photo session.

The questionnaire

 

If you decide to book with me, I will send you a questionnaire to gather information about your family and what you would like to out of your session. This enables me to ensure I meet you needs and that you get the most out of the session.

I also ask for information such as children’s names, ages, hobbies etc, as it’s allows me to chat with them, when we meet and put them at ease.

I have my own children, so I am not expecting yours to be little angels.  Don’t worry if it takes them a while to get used to me.  The more relaxed you are, the easier it is for the children.

As well as photography, I also work in a school for children with special needs, so please do let me know if your child has any additional needs. I will ensure that the session is adapted to their needs.

 

How does the session work?

 

Prior to the session, we arrange a date to meet up, which will only be cancelled if the session is heavily raining.  A little bit of rain just makes for a fun session!

The session will last an hour but you can book a double session if you prefer a bit longer. I also offer indoor/outdoor sessions where you can have a studio style session and then head out for a walk.  Click HERE for more details.

We will discuss who is attending your session because you can bring pets or other family members.  The more the merrier.

I will also email over some clothing ideas.  This includes information about ideal colours and using as few patterns as possible, to ensure you have timeless photos.  Ultimately though, as long as you are comfortable, anything goes.

These sessions are about you and your family, so it’s important that you wear something that represents who you are.

Once we meet for the session, we will head off for your walk, allowing the children to have fun.  I will take a mixture of photos, some natural, photographing the children as they play and interact with you.  Plus, some more formal ones by stopping along the way, making the most of the stunning backdrop.

Dogs are an important part of any family, so they are always welcome to come along for the session.

Outdoor Family Photo Sessions in West Sussex

 

If you have any questions please do visit my family page by clicking  HERE and complete the contact form or email me at clairewildersphotography.co.uk

 

I hope you like my photos, I would love to have the opportunity of creating some fabulous memories for your family.

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