There’s something magical about photographing children, especially the wild ones. The ones who run, jump, shout, refuse to sit still, and march to the beat of their own drum. These spirited little souls challenge us as photographers, but they’re also the most genuine, full-of-life subjects we could ever hope for.
As the heart behind Danielle Ashley Photography, my mission has always been to create a space where every child feels seen, loved, and celebrated just as they are.
A Personal Note on Inclusivity
My passion for inclusive photography comes from a deeply personal place. My brother has severe intellectual disabilities, and growing up, I saw firsthand how often he was left out or treated differently. It hurt, not just him, but our whole family. That kind of exclusion leaves a lasting mark. And it’s a mark I’ve sworn never to leave on another person.
Every child deserves to feel like they matter. Every child deserves to be shown love and kindness. And every child deserves to be photographed with care, patience, and joy. Whether they’re neurodivergent, disabled, shy, hyper, nonverbal, or just having a really big feeling kind of day.
That’s why, at Danielle Ashley Photography, inclusion isn’t an add-on—it’s the foundation of everything I do.
Tips for Photographing Wild, Free-Spirited, and Uniquely Beautiful Kids
1. Ditch Perfection and Embrace Real Life
Forget the Pinterest-perfect poses and matching outfits. Wild kids rarely sit still, and that’s okay! Candid, in-the-moment photos often hold the most personality and truth. Capture them mid-giggle, mid-leap, mid-mess—they’ll thank you later for showing them just as they were.
2. Follow Their Lead
Let the child guide the session. If they want to explore the woods, jump in puddles, or pretend they’re a dinosaur, go with it. The more freedom they feel, the more their real selves will shine through. And those are the moments we’re here to capture.
3. Be Patient—No, Really
Some kids need extra time to warm up. Some kids may be overstimulated, overwhelmed, or communicating in a different way than you’re used to. That’s never a problem. Breathe. Give them time. Bring snacks. Make space for breaks. A session doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s timeline to be successful.
4. Avoid Labels, Embrace Uniqueness
Don’t call them “difficult” or “too much.” Every child has something that makes them unique—whether that’s a disability, a diagnosis, or just a whole lot of energy. As a photographer, it’s our job to see their beauty, not their challenges. Kids are never “too wild”—they’re just being themselves.
5. Communicate With Families
Ask parents what works best for their child. Is there a favorite song that calms them? A sensory item they love? Do they need quiet transitions or physical space? Inclusion starts with listening. Every family knows their child best—lean into their expertise.
6. Celebrate Every Personality
Whether a child is loud or quiet, chaotic or cautious, verbal or nonverbal—every personality is worth celebrating. Your job isn’t to tame them. It’s to see them. Love them. Photograph them.
7. Remember the Big Picture
You’re not just taking a photo. You’re creating a memory for a family—a snapshot of a child’s personality, quirks, and soul. That’s a big responsibility, and it’s also a gift.
In Closing
Photography isn’t just about lighting and lenses. It’s about heart. It’s about inclusion. It’s about seeing people—especially the ones who are often overlooked or misunderstood—and making sure they feel valued, safe, and celebrated.
To every wild child, every shy kid, every neurodivergent soul, every little human with something beautifully different about them: You belong here. You are loved. And you are worth remembering exactly as you are.
That’s what I believe at Danielle Ashley Photography. That’s what I promise every family I work with. And that’s what I wish someone had promised my brother all those years ago.
Let’s keep making space for every kid, every personality, every story. Because every child deserves to be seen.
📸 About Danielle Ashley Photography
I’m Danielle, a family photographer and momma of 4, with a heart for kids who don’t fit into boxes. I specialize in capturing real, raw, joy-filled moments, especially for children and families with unique needs and stories. Based on my own family experiences, I believe in radical inclusion, limitless patience, and photographing every sweet little personality just the way they are.
If you’re looking for a session where your child can be wild, loud, messy, quiet, different, or anything in between—you’re in the right place.
Let’s create something beautiful together. 💛
