People First, Always: Why I'm No Longer Publicly Sharing Identifiable Photos of Children

Photography has always been about preserving memories.

For years, photographers have shared their work online to connect with potential clients, celebrate meaningful moments, and showcase the stories they have the privilege of documenting. I've loved being able to highlight the families who invite me into these special chapters of their lives.
But the internet today looks very different than it did even a few years ago.
As technology continues to evolve, including the rise of artificial intelligence and large-scale image collection, I've spent a lot of time considering the responsibilities that come with publicly sharing photographs, especially photographs of children.
After careful thought, I've decided that Spann Creative will be no longer publicly sharing identifiable photos of children on social media or my website.
This decision comes from a place of care and respect for the families I serve. When parents hire me, they're trusting me with some of their most precious memories. I believe that trust extends beyond creating beautiful photographs. It also includes thoughtfully considering how those images live online.

What Does This Mean for Clients?
Not much will change.
You'll still receive your full gallery with every smile, giggle, milestone, and meaningful moment documented just as before. Your photographs are still created for you and your family first.
The difference is that those images won't be used as public portfolio pieces if a child can be clearly identified.
In some cases, I may continue sharing photographs that protect a child's identity through thoughtful composition, such as:
Images photographed from behind
Detail photographs
Silhouettes
Environmental portraits
Connection-focused storytelling moments
Photography is about so much more than a face. Some of the most meaningful photographs are the quiet moments that tell a story while preserving privacy.

Updating Past Galleries and Posts?
As part of this change, I'll be reviewing and archiving existing social media posts and website images that contain identifiable photographs of children.
If I've photographed your family in the past and there's an image currently online that you would prefer not be shared publicly, please reach out. No explanation is needed. I will gladly remove it.
Your comfort and trust matter far more to me than any portfolio image ever could.
People First, Always
Ultimately, this decision reflects the heart of Spann Creative: people first.
This choice isn't rooted in fear. It's rooted in care.
I want every family who works with me to know that their trust is valued, their memories are respected, and their children's privacy matters.
These photographs have always been about preserving memories for the families in them, not creating content for social media.
Thank you for allowing me to document your stories and preserve the moments that matter most. Being invited into these chapters of your lives is a privilege I never take for granted.
With gratitude,
Jessica Spann
Spann Creative


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