With 17 years of experience, 13 godchildren, and a declared passion for children, Fernanda Oliveira has established herself as one of the leading figures in children’s photography in Brazil. A pioneer in the newborn segment and creator of the innovative “Colors Session”—a concept that prioritizes spontaneity and fun—the photographer combines technique, sensitivity, and knowledge of pedagogy and child development to offer much more than images: she creates genuine, emotional memories for the whole family.
What captivates you most about the moment a child lets loose during a photoshoot? What’s it like realizing that photography has gone from being a pose to genuine play?
It’s the certainty that I’ll be able to capture the true essence of a child with joy, color, and genuine smiles. Seeing the sparkle in their eyes, the laughter that flows with every play, is knowing that playful photography is resistance in a world where childhood is in a hurry.
The COLORS essay is almost like a manifesto for a free childhood. What kind of reactions do you usually get from families after experiencing this?
COLORS are undoubtedly a passion for families and, thanks to playful photography, for children too. Parents are struck by the vibrant colors that help to brighten up this minimalist, child-focused, backdrop-free shoot. They can see beyond aesthetics: they notice the mischievous looks, the spontaneous laughter, the grimaces, the unique expressions. Joy transforms into emotion and becomes a photograph to cherish forever.
How have your courses in education, marketing, and child development shaped your photography? Is it safe to say that each shot conveys a bit of all of these?
Absolutely! My studies, combined with my passion for children, make all the difference in the outcome. The way I engage the child, respect their time, and conduct the rehearsal comes largely from this repertoire. Even to play, we need to know how to do it.
I continue to seek knowledge outside of photography as well. My next study will be on neurodivergent children. I sense the insecurity many parents feel when bringing their children to the studio, and I’ve already welcomed them here. Now I want to be more prepared. When parents feel safe, the child feels at home.
In your studio, photography goes beyond the image; it’s about memory, care, affection, and development. How do you balance your technical perspective with the sensitivity of working with children?
Honestly? The technique exists, of course, but I don’t care if the hair is in the face, the dress is wrinkled, or if the face turned out “cute.” Children being children is synonymous with good mess and joy! Sometimes a photo turns out crooked or even blurry… and we love it all the same, because it conveys truth and expresses that moment. And the most beautiful thing is that at the end of each shoot, the child asks: “But is it over yet? I want to play more!” That’s when I know I’ve accomplished my goal.
We know that every child is unique. How does the playful photography method address different temperaments, including children with developmental disabilities?
With respect and listening. We learn techniques over time: eye contact, using movements while speaking, understanding the child’s cues. Before the rehearsal, parents fill out a questionnaire to learn what their child likes and what they prefer to avoid. The pace is theirs, not ours. I use intentional toys to elicit smiles, but the child is always the one who leads.
With a career that includes the GNT Family Album program and co-authoring a book, how do you see the role of children’s photography in building family and emotional narratives today?
My photography is a manifesto for a light, fun, and magical childhood. In a fast-paced, screen-filled world where children want to be adults before their time, my work is a cry for how good it is to be a child. I want the child seen in the photo to feel proud of having experienced that joy. And for the adult, upon seeing, to recognize the purity, innocence, and emotion of that time that will never return.
In a digital age of disposable images and filters, what do you think makes a childhood photo truly unforgettable?
A photo only becomes unforgettable when the moment is too. That’s why I believe so strongly in playful photography—less posing, more smiles, more truth. The children who already know the studio know: here, they make the rules. And that makes all the difference.
For those just starting out in children’s photography or dreaming of pursuing this path, what advice would you give on how to turn a photoshoot into an experience? And what should always be included in a photoshoot with children?
The experience begins with service and ends with delivery. And to achieve this, I have a dedicated team, focused on every detail. Many people take photos, but what we truly value here are safe and happy parents. Because happy parents mean happy children.
From the beginning, we sent out a form advising parents to leave their child alone. This is because many would come in saying, “Be quiet,” “Don’t touch that,” “Don’t run around there.” So much pressure right off the bat! And that’s when I come in saying, “No! He’s the boss here!” And that’s it, in that instant, I’ve won the child over. There’s candy, popcorn, temporary tattoos, balloons—everything for the child to take home as a souvenir and remember the mess of that day.
The camera? I only pick it up when I feel truly connected to it. And I don’t say, “Shall we take a picture?” I say, “Shall we play?” Because, really, most kids hate having their picture taken, but here… here it’s different! Every photoshoot needs direction, yes, but a playful direction, full of imagination. Think back to your own childhood: how time seemed endless and play, magical.
Children have fun with little, but they need your presence. Be your whole self during the shoot. Pay attention, truly listen. Many photographers try to please the parents and forget to listen to the little ones. But they are the ones who matter most.
Children realize when you’re truly there, and when that happens, the perfect shot happens too. Be rigorous and professional with your delivery; I see many still taking such a valuable profession as a hobby. What can’t be missing? MESS!
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