Claremore Photographer Honors Special-Needs Families With Free Portraits

Kathleen Batts makes a living taking photos of babies, high school seniors and families.

But, she said her most beautiful photos are of her clients with special needs.

"It takes more time, but they're actually a lot easier to photograph because they're happy, and fun and excited to be here and get their pictures taken," Batts explained. "It's really rewarding."

Kathleen and her husband Kyle launched a program called The Inclusion Project. They have a mission: to photograph 50 different local families who have children with special needs.

The program started last year when Batts photographed a young man with autism. His parents were so grateful for her patience, she said, it opened her eyes to the struggles many special-needs families face in this regard.

Batts said many of the families can't afford expensive photo sessions because of costly medical bills. Or, parents worry the photographer might get frustrated with their child's mental or physical disabilities.

"A lot of them have a lot of equipment they have to bring with them to their appointments, and they worry about the photographer being impatient," Batts said.

With each portrait Kathleen & Kyle B. Photography takes, they hope for more acceptance and inclusion of special-needs children.

The Battses are taking applications for free photo sessions with The Inclusion Project now. There are about 25 spots open.

You can learn more by visiting their Facebook page or by emailing kmbatts@gmail.com.