Growing Up With Down Syndrome

We aim to lead the industry in representing diverse people in imagery and the Newcastle‑based Solstock team has been at the forefront with us in casting authentic and unique people in their shoots. This particular project involved Evan, a boy with Down syndrome whom they have been working with since he was young. He is very familiar with the Solstock team, which made for a more relaxed shoot.

“When working with real families, we talk with them and find out what their daily routine is and what they enjoy doing. It keeps them in their comfort zone and helps us get really natural looking results,” says Graham Oliver. “Working with people who have different abilities has its challenges, but we learn something every time we photograph them, and we hope that what we do will help change attitudes and break down barriers.” Photographically, Solstock manages to find that delicate balance between documentary authenticity and a clean advertising style.