Family SEND Shoots
FREE for a limited time only
Everybody deserves to feel seen.
Within the photography industry, I feel that there's a lack of inclusivity when it comes to people and parents with their SEND children/family for various reasons, whether that's lack of understanding, lack of time, or it's just too 'niche'.
My shoots are a chance to spend quality time with your loved ones, and come away with professional photographs showcasing your love, fun and smiles!
These sessions are lead by you and we go at your pace, while I create a safe, understanding & 'no pressure' environment for you to be yourselves and have fun.
About the Photographer
My first job when I was 16 was a children's party coordinator, but after seeing how some neurotypical environments were too overstimulating and not inclusive for some of the neurodivergent children, I found the need to help and support as much as I could, which lead me into education.
I've worked as a learning support and care assistant in SEN for 8 years, and it's still my full time job alongside photography! There's something so special about being part of so many young people's lives and making a real difference to them and their families.
I now strive to extend my passion for SEN into my love of photography!
I've been photographing SEN proms and events for the last few years and this has spurred me on to attempt my ultimate dream, to one day open my own specialist studio, to create a safe, creative and fun environment for my clients, and give them the best experience possible!
I've always had a knack for finding the 'in-between' moments, that smile that's been hiding for too long, the hugs and kisses we give to our families that normally aren't captured, and how much our family, friends and carers mean to us. I'm here to photograph your smiles, personalities and bond to preserve those beautiful moments for years to come.
Training & Qualifications at a glance
- DBS Checked
- Makaton
- Understanding Autism
- First Aid & Epilepsy Trained
- OT & SALT training
- Intensive Interaction
- Zones of Regulation
- Sensory Processing
- Comic Strip Conversations
*Sessions are only a guide and completely customisable to suit your needs*
- 15-30 minute mini family & individual shoot at a location of your choice
- 1 SEND experienced photographer (Helayna)
- 25+ final images delivered in an online gallery (no limit)
- All images processed by hand
- Photos delivered in an online gallery to be easily downloaded & shared.
*travel cost may be added depending on location*
£0
Ways I adapt for additional needs
Safe & Calm Approach
It's very important to me that everybody feels safe during their shoot. Photoshoots can be a bit anxiety inducing, especially with a new face and a camera! The session will be led by the family/parent/carer as you know your loved ones best, with gentle guidance and support from myself to get the best photos!
Aided Language Boards/Symbols
I have created my own photography specific aided language boards and symbols which are available to use throughout the shoot.
Any communication aids or own symbols are welcomed and encouraged!
I also promote choice through a customisable timetable, so you can decide which order you do any activities/poses and can enjoy a totally bespoke shoot!
Sensory Friendly Environment/Movement breaks
As I don't have a studio, I would suggest choosing a familiar location/place such as a park, where we can go for a walk and shoot along the way! Or it may be a favourite cafe, town or even your own home, it should be wherever you feel comfortable!
Breaks are offered regularly and are completely okay to take if anything gets too much or if you want to stop.
Bespoke & Personalised Approach
Everybody is different!
At the moment I'm unfortunately not able to do online consultations, but we will have a chat via email or preferred messaging app so I can get to know you! I will ensure beforehand that I'm aware of possible triggers, things which they like/don't like and things they enjoy eg, music, dancing, signing!
I will be there at every step to make sure I adapt the session to fit your unique and amazing selves!
Fidget Toys/Comforters
Any personal fidgets are welcomed and encouraged! But I do have an exciting box full of different sensory and fidget toys, as well as a few props and fun things to look through.
I may also be able to provide things such as puzzles, paper and pens for drawing, or anything else requested prior to the shoot.
Intensive Interaction
One of my favourite ways to communicate is through intensive interaction. I believe it's so important to have a total communication approach, whether your loved one is verbal, non-verbal, uses body language and cues, or uses Makaton, it's important for me to be able to communicate in an effective way to provide the best experience possible, and make sure everyone feels heard.
Flexible Timings
All shoots are a guideline for timings, if your loved one decides they've finished after 5 minutes then that's absolutely fine!
As well as if it takes 15 minutes to get to know each other, there's no demands or rushing as I allow extra time for thisl.
Celebrating You!
These shoots are a chance to spend quality time with family/friends/carers, I know the importance of the small moments which mean the absolute world to parents and family, this is what I aim to capture! Those beautiful cheesy smiles, the eye contact and the love and bond you share.
No Judgement Zone
This should be a given, but I need to hammer the point home! ALL shoots are a judgement free zone. I will forever promote safety, empowerment and confidence for all my clients, and I cannot wait to meet and work with you.
We had a session with Helayna, our son has SEN and Helayna made him feel extremely comfortable, listened to him when he needed a break or had had enough. She was amazing, she made all of us feel so relaxed and we had a good laugh. I love the end results. Truly amazing to have someone capture moments like this. Definitely recommend :)
~ Jordan & Riley