Inclusive Means Everyone

When we say we are inclusive photographers, we mean it. 

Today I (Rose) spent some time with Cheyenne and her mom Dawn. Yes, we adhered to social distancing and despite my desire to hug, I did not.  Today was senior picture day for the beautiful Cheyenne. Since 2020 is not a normal year, senior photos were on the back burner for Dawn until the high school decided to put together a presentation for all the grads. She called us and we had lots of time available to have a session this morning.

There was a little apprehension for Dawn. Her last experience with a photographer taking photos of Cheyenne was not a good one. Cheyenne has autism. She moves differently. She holds and loves her stuffed dog. She is also absolutely funny and says the best "cheese" I have ever heard.

Dawn shared with me that the last photographer told her she couldn't work with Cheyenne. She moved to much and wouldn't take direction. 

I am always stunned when other photographers tell clients stuff like that. Sometimes it is you are too fat. Or you are not pretty enough. Or I do not photograph same sex couples. Or I cannot take a photo a trans person. So basically you interested in taking photos of people you think are acceptable. You are only a pretty person photographer. And that all you are interested in is making a buck. Well I am not that kind of photographer.

I cannot say this enough.... EVERYONE IS BEAUTIFUL. EVERYONE DESERVES TO FEEL APPRECIATED.

I found a great way to photograph Cheyenne today. I realized that I needed to adjust my style to make it work for her, not make her work for me. Today was one of those once in a lifetime moments for mother and daughter. It is my job, my art, to make that happen for them. Life's moments should not only be for certain people. They should be for all people. 

Check out Cheyenne's session in our Senior Photos and Portraits gallery.

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