Creating Autism Awareness Postcards

Creating Autism Awareness Postcards: A Journey of Challenges and Joy

Designing a series of Autism Awareness postcards was an incredibly rewarding and heartfelt experience. With a goal to craft four unique postcards that celebrated acceptance, love, and understanding, the process became more than just a project it was a meaningful way to convey the message of inclusivity and empathy.

Challenges of the Photoshoot

Photographing a young autistic boy came with its own set of challenges, but these were opportunities for learning and growth. Here’s what stood out:

  • Patience and Timing:
    Children, especially those on the autism spectrum, can be sensitive to new environments, sounds, and activities. Creating a comfortable atmosphere was essential. It took some time to establish trust and make the boy feel at ease with the camera.

  • Capturing Genuine Expressions:
    His expressions often shifted quickly, making it tricky to capture the perfect shot. Instead of posing, the focus was on catching natural, spontaneous moments of joy, curiosity, and thoughtfulness.

  • Adjusting to Sensory Needs:
    Bright lights or flashes from the camera were avoided to prevent overstimulation. Instead, natural lighting and softer tones were used, which ultimately gave the photos a warm and inviting look.

The Fun Moments

While there were challenges, there were so many joyful moments during the process:

  • Spontaneous Smiles and Playful Gestures:
    Some of the best shots came from letting him be himself. Whether he was playing with a toy or making a silly face, these candid moments brought authenticity and heart to the postcards.

  • Collaborating on the Design:
    His unique personality inspired the designs of the postcards. The vibrant colors and playful text reflect his energy and individuality, making the cards feel alive with positivity.

  • Creating a Comfortable Setting:
    To make the photoshoot fun, the setting was filled with his favorite things—soft toys, music, and familiar objects. This not only helped him relax but also made the process enjoyable for everyone involved.

Designing the Postcards

Once the photos were ready, it was time to integrate them into the postcard designs. Here’s how each element was thoughtfully chosen:

  • Consistent Theme and Borders:
    The borders are bright, featuring primary colors (red, blue, yellow) to symbolize inclusivity and diversity, which are central to Autism Awareness.


  • Appropriate Text:
    The text on each postcard carried heartfelt messages like “Autism is not a choice, acceptance is” and “Someone with autism has taught me love needs no words.” These phrases reflect the essence of the awareness campaign.

  • Playful and Positive Imagery:
    The photos, combined with puzzle-piece motifs and vibrant typography, create a cohesive look that is both professional and emotionally engaging.


Final Thoughts

This project was a blend of creativity and compassion. The challenges of photographing an autistic child were outweighed by the joy of capturing his authentic spirit. Every smile, thoughtful look, and playful gesture added a special touch to the postcards, making them more than just designs—they became a celebration of acceptance, love, and understanding.

Creating these postcards wasn’t just about raising awareness for autism; it was also about learning to see the world through someone else’s eyes and cherishing the beauty of individuality. This experience reminded me that the best designs come from the heart, and the process can be just as rewarding as the final product.


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