JUST AS YOU ARE SESSIONS
PHOTOGRAPTHY FOR CHILDREN WHO DO THINGS THEIR OWN WAY
Not every child enjoys having their photo taken.
Some need time. Some need space. Some need movement. Some need quiet. Some might not even look at the camera - and that’s absolutely okay.
Just As You Are sessions are designed specifically for neurodivergent children and children with additional needs, where there are no expectations, no pressure and no “say cheese.”
Instead, we meet your child exactly where they are.
Whether that’s exploring a woodland, spinning in circles, lining up sticks, cuddling on the sofa at home, bouncing around the studio, or simply taking things one step at a time.
Because those moments matter too.
With over 13 years of experience photographing children of all ages and abilities, I’ve learnt that every child is wonderfully different. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s exactly why these sessions exist.
I have oodles of patience, and I’m more than happy to let your child set the pace. Whether we spend twenty minutes chatting before I even pick up my camera or take lots of movement breaks along the way, that’s all part of the session.
These aren’t rushed photo shoots.
I deliberately allow up to three hours in my diary, giving us plenty of time for warm-ups, breaks, snacks, sensory regulation, exploring, or simply waiting until your child feels comfortable. The photographs come when they’re ready - not because they’ve been asked to smile.
-Emma and Jules"Nicola has been taking our photos for the last 5 years. Our son Teddy is currently waiting for a diagnosis of autism and ADHD - he’s shy and anxious but an extremely energetic law unto himself. He won’t be told or asked what to do, especially if we are around - it’s all on his terms. However, Nicola always manages to get the most beautiful photos of him.
She makes him feel comfortable and works with him and us in a way that gives him the freedom to feel like himself. He gets excited when we say we are going to take our photos especially at Christmas as he loves throwing snowballs at her.
The photos she captures of him always show his beautiful smile and showcase his amazing individuality every single time.
I can’t recommend Nicola enough if you're looking for a flexible and natural photographer who will work with the individual needs of your family."
Preparation is just as important as the session itself. Before we meet, we’ll chat about your child - the things they love, what helps them feel safe, any sensory needs, favourite interests, things to avoid, and anything else you think would help me get to know them.
The more I understand beforehand, the better I can create an experience that’s tailored entirely to your family.
As a SEND parent myself to a beautiful AuDHD young lady, I get you. I hear you. I am with you.
-Amanda"We have been lucky enough to have Nicola capture our daughter Sophie every year since she was less than a year old, and nearly seven now and I couldn't recommend Nicola more highly.
Sophie has ASD, and Nicola has always approached every session with such kindness, patience and understanding. She's taken the time to get to know Sophie, adapts every session to meet her needs, and never expects Sophie to fit into a mould. Instead, she works around Sophie, making each experience relaxed, enjoyable and completely pressure-free.
What I love most is that Nicola simply sees Sophie for who she is. That shines through in every photograph we've received. She captures Sophie's personality, happiness and little moments so beautifully, creating memories that we will treasure forever.
I'm so excited to see Nicola launching her SEN photography sessions because I know first-hand what a difference her approach makes. If you're looking for someone who is not only incredibly talented but also genuinely compassionate and understanding, I can't recommend Nicola enough.”
5 STAR RATED
With a over decade of photography experience, my sessions are relaxed, natural, and tailored to your individual needs.FIRST HAND EXPERIENCE
As a mother to an AuDHD daughter, I have first hand experience of your challenges and oodles of patience.TREASURED MEMORIES
I am passionate about neurodivergent families having their lives captured like any other family.