It took me several years in photography (AND LIFE) to really understand connecting with all kinds of children. I was blessed (or cursed) with really sensitive, empathetic kids. They get that from me. My youngest daughter was so sensitive, I had to ask her permission to touch/pickup/love her. Each time I wanted to interact with my baby, I had to make sure that it was okay with her, that she was mentally prepared. HER OWN MOTHER. For the first three years of her life, she wouldn’t tolerate ANYONE to even look at her. I learned to understand her, connect with her and love her on her terms. I’m happy to report that with early intervention and wonderful teachers I’m no longer the only lifeline in my daughter’s life. She’s now able to enjoy other people, caregivers, friends in her life.

What she taught me is that a child’s friendship, trust and cooperation needs to be earned, on their terms. That it takes patience and a quiet, approachable hand. When a child comes to see me, they are experiencing/processing so many new things. I’ve learned that parents’ tricks that work at home sometimes add intrusive noise to an already overstimulated situation. Earning a child’s trust is a challenge and maybe the most rewarding thing I do in photography.

With all that said, here is Andrew. The most friendly, smiley, chill kid I have ever met. A boy who loves life. I’ve been lucky enough to photograph him from birth and I look forward to MANY more years of his growing personality.