How I’m creating Neurodivergent Friendly Brand Photoshoots.
So after a recent discovery call with a Neurodivergent business women I thought I’d give share some thoughts on the experience of having Neurodivergent-Friendly Brand Photoshoots with me and explain how I try to make the shoots as easy and inclusive as possible.
First Contact
The first step is usually when you get in touch with me.
Whether it’s by email or telephone (or my preference Video call) we’ll usually use the time to get to know one another, to talk about YOU and your business and then I’ll give you more information about all the different types of shoots.
It’s usually at this point that we’ll talk about…
- Feeling unphotogenic
- Needing to lose weight
- Menopause playing havoc with confidence
- Feeling silly and nervous about having professional photos
- Needing a quiet environment (no strangers around)
- Physical or movement issues
We’ll talk about all the logistics of where we could do the shoot and if you have ideas we’ll chat them through too.
I like to know how comfortable you’re going to be in any particular location. For instance you might not want to be photographed (or videoed) on a busy street in the middle of a town centre, but might still want that look for your photos.
If you decide to book straight away then we decide on a date, and then also book a “Pre-shoot planning call” for a couple of weeks prior the shoot.
The Pre-shoot Planning Call
Choosing a location
Once the shoot date has been booked, the next step is to start planning the photoshoot. You might have already decided on a location, or we might need to come up with somewhere new for you.
That’s absolutely fine.
We’ll take into account
- How comfortable you are being around other people (strangers or otherwise).
- If noise is an issue we’ll consider that too.
- Lighting could be a factor for both of us too.
- Any other sensory triggers.
- Whether travelling is an issue to new places.
- If there are any physical limitations.
The idea at this point it to tailor the shoot to YOU. So that on the day of the shoot the only thing you need to think about is getting there and having some fun.
Flexibility
I’m always very flexible when it comes to the timings of the photoshoot (unless it’s a day where I’ve hired a house and have to stick to a schedule). If you feel that you would feel better at a specific time in the day, I can usually accommodate that. Assuming we have enough daylight that is.
We can also stop for breaks, take time to recharge if you need to manage your sensory input.
Visual Schedule
For the actual day of the shoot, if it makes it easier for you I can provide a visual graphic of how the shoot will run. A sort of timeline if that helps clarify everything.
On the day of the shoot
Bring someone to support you
Whether it’s your other half, a trusted friend or even your Mum. I’m always happy for you to bring along moral support.
Plus it often helps with the logistics of the day itself. Helping with outfit changes, carrying bags and obviously giving emotional support.
Posing & Expression
I try not to do too much posing in the traditional sense. I might put you into a certain position because it’s more flattering for the photos, but I’m usually looking for the unguarded moments in between… where you’re not self-conscious.
If there is ever something that makes you uncomfortable, just tell me. Everyone has a different tolerance for how they like to approach this.
Personal Boundaries
I am not naturally a hugger… so I’m hyper aware of when other people would prefer not to be touched or physically moved around. I’ll always check that you’re happy for me to move your hair, adjust outfits etc.
Everyone I photograph is unique, so for me, understanding each other and levels of comfort is crucial to get the photos that you’ll actually want to share.
After the shoot
Once we’ve done the shoot, I’ll do my best to get your photos within 1 week, because I understand that you’ll be both nervous and excited to see them. And if at anytime you have questions, just drop me a message.
Hopefully this gives you an idea of how Neurodivergent-Friendly Brand Photoshoots could work.
And when you’re ready, here are a few ways that I can help you:
1) Visit my blog for tips on VISIBILITY.
Every week I discuss strategies to improve your visibility, get over your fear of visibility and my latest shoots. Read here
2) Plan a bespoke photoshoot.
We can plan a shoot based on what you actually need (read more) or you could join me at a Branding Day or a B-roll shoot.
3) Join ‘Visibility School’.
Visibility school is a membership group where you get 12 months of photoshoots, a fab little Facebook group and a Visibility Toolkit (new for 2024 members) . Read
4) Introducing The Content Club
I’ve launched a content club where you can join me every quarter to sort out all your photos and b-roll videos. Learn more
