Accessibility
Accessibility Information
Sapfograf’s studio is located in Turku at Hämeenkatu 28. There is paid parking on the street. These spaces are often full, so unfortunately we cannot guarantee parking availability. We also do not have dedicated customer parking. Taxis and accessible taxis can drive directly to the front of the studio via the inner courtyard. More detailed arrival instructions with pictures can be found on Sapfograf’s page “Autism-Friendly Instructions”.
Please let us know in advance if you need a ramp at the entrance, and we will make sure everything is ready. The ramp has a weight limit of 300 kg.
The ramp is 76 cm wide, and the doorway is 96 cm wide. The doorway to the living room is 84 cm wide, and there is a 5 cm high stepped threshold. The toilet doorway is 70 cm wide and has a 6 cm high threshold with a ramp. A foldable aluminium ramp can also be moved indoors to any doorway.
Furniture weight limits:
• armchairs with armrests: 100 kg
• sofa: 200 kg
• bed: 300 kg
• old travel trunk: 100 kg
• stools: 90 kg
The studio also has a low futon armchair with no weight limit.
The studio toilet is small and cannot accommodate all mobility aids. It can be used if you have an assistant with you or if you are able to move with support. The studio floors are made of hard laminate. We do not keep rugs on the floors during photo sessions. It is possible to photograph people at the studio who use a rollator, a manual wheelchair, or a small electric wheelchair.
If you use a larger electric wheelchair or a manual wheelchair, we will find a suitable accessible location for the photo session free of charge.
Safer Space
Be inclusive and respectful. We come from different backgrounds, but we are all equals here.
Consent matters. Ask permission before touching and respect others’ boundaries.
Respect privacy. Share only what feels safe. Do not pressure anyone to share personal details.
Be mindful of assumptions and privilege. Notice your position and power, and act thoughtfully.
Give space to those affected. For example, trans people have the right of way in discussions about trans matters.
Listen and share thoughtfully. Encourage others to speak and do not dominate the conversation.
Triggering topics. Ask permission before bringing up sensitive topics.
No recording without consent. Do not take photos, film or record anyone without permission.
Zero tolerance for discrimination. Racism, ableism, fatphobia, homophobia, transphobia, queerphobia and aphobia are not allowed.
Respect bodies. Avoid comments about your own or others’ bodies. Dieting or weight discussions are not encouraged.
Your comfort comes first. You may step away or stop participating at any time.
Quiet space available. A calm space is reserved for anyone who needs it to rest or gather strength.
We follow these guidelines to make the session safe, respectful and comfortable for everyone.
Sensory considerations
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As the studio is in an older street-side building, some typical building and street noise may be heard. A speaker is available, and you can choose the sound environment for your session: no music, music of your choice, or other sounds that suit you, such as rainfall.
At the start of the session, we will agree on how we communicate. Some speaking is necessary, but if you would prefer to keep conversation to a minimum, that is completely fine.
The cameras make some noise. The shutter sounds like the click of a ballpoint pen. If flash is used, it makes a soft popping sound, which is not loud. Continuous lighting produces a very quiet hum. If these sounds feel unpleasant, the session can be done entirely in natural light, provided it is booked for a time when daylight is sufficient.
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No ceiling lights or floor lamps are switched on during the session. Depending on the weather, the studio may feel softly dim, neutral, or bright with sunlight.
If bright or flickering lights are uncomfortable for you, the session can be done without flash or additional lighting. In that case, it will need to be booked for a time when natural light is sufficient. The photographers can help you choose a suitable time.
If flash is used, the studio brightens briefly and quite intensely. It is best not to look directly at the flash or additional lights. These are usually positioned so they do not shine directly into the subject’s eyes, but they may still feel strong or irritating.
If you have epilepsy or epileptic symptoms, please tell us when booking. We do not photograph people with photosensitive epilepsy using lights, flash, or handheld flash. The same applies to photosensitive migraine.
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The photographers do not use perfume or strongly scented products. The studio does not use air fresheners or other fragranced products, such as incense. We also ask clients not to wear strong fragrances.
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You are welcome to attend with an assistant, an assistance dog, a pet, a friend, or a loved one. We do not ask to see assistance ID cards.
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You can take a break at any time during the session. A separate quiet space can be provided for rest and recovery. The overall atmosphere is calm, and there is never any rush.
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A private, quiet changing space is available, with a chair for clothes and belongings. The doors can be closed for privacy. If you would like to get ready at the studio, that can be arranged. Please mention this when booking so that enough time can be allowed.
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The studio is located directly by the street, and large passing vehicles, such as buses and lorries, may cause the building to vibrate slightly. This may feel unusual at first. If this would be disturbing for you, the session can be arranged outside the busiest traffic times or in a studio space that suits you better.
