Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
I would love some stunning outdoor portraits of my pup, but my dog can’t be off-leash. Is this still possible?
A.
YES! Almost all of the dogs we work with stay on leash for their session, I understand that not all dogs are reliable offleash. Through the magic of post-shoot processing and editing, I can make it appear as though the leash were never there. I have some strategies for minimizing how visible the leash is in photos as well.
Q.
How long are your photo sessions?
A.
For 1 dog, sessions typically run 45-60 minutes. For each additional dog, I estimate another ~20-30 minutes. However, there is not an official time limit—we will take the time needed to ensure success and that you get the photos you want! We do ask that you respect your photographer’s time however, and try your best to arrive at your session on time.
Q.
My dog is nervous/fearful/reactive. Is it possible to photograph them?
A.
In most cases, absolutely. I am a certified dog trainer and I use my extensive knowledge and experience to ensure that your dog is comfortable at all times during the shoot. And if at any point your dog starts to show that they are uncomfortable, we’ll slow down and take it at their pace. I have equipment (lenses, namely) that allow me to photograph your dog from a distance if needed. I find that outdoor shoots are better for the super timid pups, as studio equipment can be quite intimidating.
Q.
I’m worried my dog might find the studio equipment too scary—is it still okay to book a studio shoot?
A.
Yes! Most dogs find strobes/backdrops/stands weird at first, and I totally understand this. We will gradually desensitize your dog to the equipment, moving at a pace that is comfortable for them. I will never just “throw your dog in the deep end” and scare them. We start by placing the strobe lighting on the ground at low power, and gradually raise it so the dog gets used to the sudden light and isn’t spooked by it.
Make sure to bring yummy treats that are your dog’s favorite for this! And if your dog ends up not being able to handle the environment even after all these steps, we can reschedule and work on it or you will receive a refund. We are also happy to apply studio shoot costs to an outdoor shoot instead.
Q.
I want to be in the photos with my pet, is that okay?
A.
Yes, for sure! Please communicate this with me ahead of the shoot so I can adjust my setup to match what you’re looking for! I love capturing the unique bond between people and their pets. If you’re looking for more formal family photos with a pet included, I’m happy to do this as well but please let me know in advance so I can coordinate. Your pet will be the focus of the session however, so please keep this in mind. If you want family photos centered around your love for your pets I would be a great fit for this.
Q.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
A.
Not a strict one. Please try to give me as much warning as possible if you must reschedule/cancel your shoot—I absolutely understand that things come up and life happens. I ask for 3 days notice before cancelling if possible, but if a sudden situation arises I understand. That being said, if you ditch us on the day of the shoot with no prior warning or explanation, I reserve the right to refuse you service in the future as my
time is valuable just like yours!
Q.
What if the weather is bad?
A.
I will do my best to work through bad weather conditions, but we must ensure that all humans and pets involved are safe. For this reason, there are a few weather conditions that I will not shoot in including: heavy wildfire smoke present/extremely poor air quality, winter storm/blizzard warnings, extreme wind warnings, or extreme temperatures (heat or cold- but especially cold).
Thunderstorms tend to be short-lived, and I am happy to wait out a storm in order to get your shoot done! We will not shoot outside if there is lightning in the area, but again we can wait it out. If your pup is particularly sensitive to storms or thunder please inform me ahead of time. If I know there is a chance of storms during our shoot I will notify you and do my best to accommodate you.
Q.
Are there any kinds of pets you won’t photograph?
A.
No! I am comfortable with snakes, lizards, birds, amphibians—pretty much everything! There may be some species I am less familiar with, so if you feel there are special considerations I should take please let me know ahead of time!
Q.
Are the photos retouched/edited?
A.
Yes. I will be careful to make sure the photos are true to your pet’s appearance—I want to authentically capture these special moments. However the photos will be retouched to ensure quality and beauty.
Q.
Do you provide RAW unedited photos?
A.
No, it is in my policy to not provide RAW/unedited photos to clients. I do not provide these because some people go on to edit them themselves and then post them—and these photos are not representative of my expertise, style, or skill.