When I first started as a photographer, I quickly realized how much there was to learn about all things photography. From lenses to angles, editing to lighting, you can’t just pick up a camera and “wing it.” I was so grateful for the many people who helped guide and mentor me along the way. While I still work to educate myself and continually learn new things, I know that learning from other photographers, as well as sharing my knowledge, is a huge part of the industry.
That is why I was so grateful to cross paths with Stephanie from The CapABLE Community. She is a lovely, talented photographer with a unique niche and passion of helping teach other photographers about photography for people with disabilities. Not only does she have personal experience working with children with disabilities, she has created a community that can support both families and fellow photographers with disability inclusion.
In her own words, “As a former home health nurse for children with disabilities, I started this business to give ALL families beautiful family photos. Hundreds of families and babies later, I have cracked the code on winning over even the shyest of kids, posing children of all abilities to allow their personality to shine, and even getting the toddler to give the new baby he is unsure of a big kiss on the cheek. I make it stress-free--for everyone! After perfecting my own photography craft, I realized how much joy I found in helping others do the same and the need that exists for disability inclusion in the photography industry.”
I was blown away when I realized what a unique specialty Stephanie has and what I could learn from her. In wanting to progress my own skills as a photographer, I also knew I wanted to be more disability inclusive to better serve the people of the Denver Metro area and help all families feel more comfortable in front of my camera.
Stephanie, of The CapABLE Community, created a 6-module course to guide photographers through the in’s and out’s of disability photography. Using her unique experience, plus data-backed photography strategies, she teaches you how to talk about disabilities, adapt any pose for any body and ability, tools and techniques to encourage cooperation and capture genuine expressions, and much more. Her course is thorough, encouraging, and beyond professional. If you are a fellow photographer, I highly recommend checking out her course and joining her community!
Additionally, when you join The CapABLE Community, you are joining a growing directory of photographers that are “capable” (per the name) of photographing any type of family or disability situation. I love that I am a part of this community and can also point families in other locations to this directory to consider disability-inclusive photographers in their area.
On top of the education and community behind The CapABLE Community, Stephanie also provides business knowledge and education to help you be as successful as possible in marketing your business. She is a cheerleader for all photographers, individuals with disabilities, and ultimately, a business-guru willing to share her experiences and bring people together. I am a big fan of her and her mission!
Take a look at what The CapABLE Community is all about, give Stephanie a follow, and consider becoming a proud member of such an admirable community. You will not be sorry!
Learn more about me, Erin Jeanne, and my experience!