Special needs friendly photographer

Capturing precious, timeless snapshots of your child exactly as they are.

Pittsburgh • Mt. Lebanon • Bethel Park • Upper St. Clair

I can't wait to be a part of your child's story

Wanting PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS but not sure how your child will respond or if your photographer can handle your child's special needs?

Let me help. i'd love to work with you and Your family just as you are.

As a nurse and mom of three I am equipped to guide your family through a photo session that is uniquely you. I have worked in medical and behavioral health settings with babies, kids and teens. I will always be respectful and accommodating. I can promise that you will never feel judged or belittled if your child's behavior isn't perfect. Honestly, tantrums and other hiccups can happen in any session. Being prepared ahead of time is the key. Let's capture your family in a fun and organic way.

What you can expect:

Child-led approach
Pre-session planning for accommodations
Video introducing myself and my camera or social stories as needed
Parents - you are the experts when it comes to your kids. Please tell me what I can do to support your family and I am happy to do it.

LOVE NOTE FROM Sara

Kelli was very patient & kind. I love how easily she brought out the smiles & giggles from all of us. The photos are stunning.

What is a CapABLE Certified Photographer?

A Photographer who has specialized training to provide:

A stellar client experience & beautiful images to families with disabilities
Pre-session planning for any Sensory, Behavioral or Medical needs.
Session flow for the best images
Adaptive posing & positioning
Inclusive language and considerations for families with disabilities

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CapABLE Certified

Knowledge, Planning & Compassion

What Makes Kelli Slavonic Photography Different?

Kelli is an experienced Nurse with specialized training and a passion for working with families with Medical & Behavioral Health needs. All families deserve to have timeless, beautiful images to hang on their walls.
Highlights:

Accessible locations
Pre-Session videos and/or social stories
Gentle direction & playful sessions
Individualized planning based on family's needs
Kelli has a calm presence and demeanor that kids & teens respond well to

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03. image delivery

02. SESSION DAY

01. Preparation

the process

When booking a session, you will be asked to fill out a Questionnaire. This is how I learn about your family. Expect to hear back about location planning, wardrobe styling, and any other pre-session support I can provide. Planning calls are offered to all clients.

Session Day will be relaxed. Once you arrive, I will introduce myself and my camera. Next, I will get a few posed shots of the whole family if possible. I will lead your family through a fun session of playful games & silly prompts and see where the session goes. Some kids need more time to warm up or more distance than others and that's completely fine!

Your gallery will be delivered within 3 weeks. You will receive a link via email to view your photos. Prints, albums, and wall art can be purchased directly through your online gallery print store. Printing from this photo lab ensures the best photo quality.

frequently asked:

We will not give up on a session. I promise to do everything I can to get the best photos of your family. Sometimes those photos are taken from a distance and capture you and your family interacting, but not looking directly at the camera. These candid images often end up being the most special to look back on. There is time built into your session for warming up and taking little breaks as needed. I will have toys to distract your child & I have some playful ways to help your child feel more comfortable.

Q: What if my child is really difficult when it comes to taking photos?

For the best lighting I prefer to do Studio Sessions in the morning or afternoon and Outdoor Sessions 1-2 hours before sunset. Early sunrise sessions are an option as well. I would never want your session time to be a barrier. Please let me know if there's a specific time that works best for you and I will do my best to accommodate your family.

Q: My child is on a rigid schedule, do you have flexibility with session times?

I would suggest an outdoor session. The fresh air and open space makes a big difference in how some kids feel at the session. If you let me know ahead of time I can choose a location that best fits your needs and come up with prompts that will work best for your family.

Q. My child has ADHD & has trouble sitting still. What is your approach?

Q: What if my child becomes aggressive?

I have years of behavioral health experience and my calm and welcoming demeanor typically helps kids feel at ease. If you are concerned that your child may become aggressive, please know that there will be no judgment if this happens. I understand that some kids get anxious and irritable in new situations. If your child becomes aggressive, I do ask that you take the lead in helping your child calm down. We can then work together to decide on the best plan for the rest of the session.

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I know how busy moms are, so I aim to provide a tailored, full service experience. Enjoy an Online Print Store within your Photo Gallery where you can order prints, albums and artwork directly. I'm also happy to guide you through the process of creating beautiful custom heirloom albums & framed artwork. I have sourced the best quality materials that will stand the test of time & absolutely take your breathe away.