Why April Means So Much to Me as an El Paso Family Photographer
April holds a deeply special place in my heart. As a mother of four military children—two of whom are on the autism spectrum—April is a month where both my personal and professional worlds align in the most meaningful way. As a veteran, a military spouse stationed at Fort Bliss, and a photographer based in El Paso, Texas, I’m reminded of the strength, resilience, and beauty within our community. This month, I honor both Autism Acceptance Month and the Month of the Military Child, two causes that are close to home and at the heart of my work.
It’s the Month of the Military Child—a time to honor the strength, resilience, and adaptability of children who grow up in military families. As a veteran and a military spouse stationed in El Paso, I’ve watched my own children navigate moves, goodbyes, and constant change with more grace than I ever could’ve imagined. Their strength humbles me every day.
April is also Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month, which is deeply personal for our family. Two of my children are on the autism spectrum, and each of their journeys is completely unique. The spectrum is wide and beautifully diverse—no two experiences are the same. Through them, I’ve learned so much about patience, compassion, and the power of truly seeing someone for who they are. Their perspectives have deeply shaped not just the way I parent, but the way I create and connect through my work as an inclusive El Paso family photographer serving Fort Bliss families.
As both a mother and an artist, I’m constantly thinking about what it means to truly see someone—not just what they look like, but who they are at their core. The subtle ways they express love, the quiet strength in their presence, the moments in between the poses. It’s in the way a child leans into their parent for comfort, or the calm confidence in someone who has weathered challenge after challenge. These are the truths I try to honor through my lens.
This kind of seeing goes beyond the surface. It’s about recognizing the quiet courage in everyday moments. The families navigating therapy appointments, long deployments, or yet another move to a new city. The parents advocating, adjusting, showing up—tired but full of love. The children with brilliant, complex minds who experience the world in ways that demand our attention and acceptance.
That’s what this month is about for me—celebrating those stories. Making space for them. Giving them the care and reverence they deserve. With every session, every frame, I want to reflect the love, strength, and truth that lives within these families.
Because being seen shouldn’t be a luxury. It should be a given. And in my life—both personal and professional—that’s what I strive to offer.
Strong & Seen: A Portrait Experience Rooted in Love
To honor this month, I’m opening up a limited number of mini sessions for military families and families with neurodivergent children. These autism-friendly photography sessions will be held in my light-filled, inclusive studio located in the heart of El Paso —just minutes from Fort Bliss.
These sessions are designed to be simple, empowering, and meaningful—offering space to feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Whether you're looking to update family portraits or simply capture a moment that reflects the beauty of your story, I would be honored to photograph you. And because this campaign is so personal to me, I’ve quietly created something special for those who take the time to read and connect with this story. Use the code SEEN2025 when booking your Strong & Seen mini session. It’s my little way of saying thank you—for seeing me, and for allowing me to see you.
If you’d like to book one of these sessions—or nominate a family who deserves to be celebrated—please reach out. I’d love to connect.
Because this month, and always, our stories matter.
With love,
Whitney
