Dog Photo Session FAQs
As you are getting excited and ready for your dog's studio portrait session, below are some things to consider.
The Booking Process:
Please get in touch to book your session via the contact form. After we agree on a time and date, a 50% non-refundable retainer is required. This secures your studio time and makes the studio unavailable for others. On shoot day, the balance amount is due. You will be required to sign a standard photography release and waiver.
The Photoshoot / Session:
We will initially spend up to 10 minutes just allowing your dog to sniff around, get acquainted and comfy with the space... and with me. The session itself will last up to 30 minutes. You are required to be present for the duration of the session. It is highly recommended that you are involved in the session to help with commands, etc. as your dog is likely to respond best to you (the owner).
We will shoot tethered into a bigger screen (when available) and you will be able to view RAW unprocessed files as we photograph in real-time.
Can I be in the photos?
While most of the session will be about your dog (a solo portrait), as it requires a specific lighting setup, I'm happy to have you jump in for a few shots at the end of the session with your fuzzy friend. No problem at all.
After the Photoshoot:
A few days following the photoshoot, you will receive a private proof gallery of all the images we captured during the session. These will be unprocessed images (meaning not color corrected, not cropped, and will likely show some of the set including light stands, etc in the background). They will contain a "proof" watermark as they are not finished and are not meant to be public.
From the proof gallery, you will select your final images.
Final Photo Delivery:
Once we receive your selections, all final photos will be edited/post-processed and you can expect the quality of images to be that found in our portfolio. Final photo delivery will be 5-7 days after we receive your selections. Final images will be delivered via Dropbox for downloading.
If you opted for beautiful Wall Art, we ensure post-production best matches the product you ordered and we will place the order with our supplier. Wall Art pick-up can range from 4 to 8 weeks after placing the order (times may vary and often it is much earlier).
Rescheduling / Cancelations:
The 50% non-refundable retainer is non-refundable and non-transferable. We set aside the studio time for you and your dog and likely turned away others for the same time and date. If you choose to reschedule or cancel, we retain the 50% retainer paid. To reschedule and set up a new session, a new 50% retainer will be required to book.
What to Bring:
Here are a few suggestions of what to bring:
- Favourite treat(s)
- Favourite toy(s)
- Favourite blanket/bed
- Any wardrobe prop to have in a few photos (bowtie, hat, toy, etc)
- Any other prop you would like
Choose the Best Time:
Schedule the session when your dog is typically calm and relaxed. Avoid times right after meals or during high-energy periods (like zoomies).
Grooming:
Give your dog a bath a day or two before the session. Brush their coat to remove any loose hair and tangles. Consider a professional groom if needed.
Familiarize Your Dog:
If possible, bring your dog to the studio beforehand to get them comfortable with the space. I'm happy to have you come by for a few minutes on a different day to say hi. This can help reduce anxiety during the actual session. On the shoot day, we will have a warm-up period just before the session, but this added visit can be very beneficial.
Choose the Right Outfit / Wardrobe Prop:
If you want your dog to wear accessories, make sure you choose comfortable, non-restrictive outfits that won’t distract them too much… and practice putting them on at home to see how your dog handles it.
Keep Them Comfortable:
Bring water and a mat or blanket for your dog to sit on during breaks. You are required to be present during the entire session to help guide, instruct, and comfort your dog.
Practice Commands:
Brush up on basic commands like sit, stay, and come. This can help with posing and keeping your dog engaged.
Plan for Breaks:
Be prepared to take breaks if your dog gets restless.
Stay Calm and Positive:
Stay calm and collected. Your energy can affect your dog in a lot of ways. Stay relaxed and positive to help your dog feel secure and happy. Your anxiety about the photo session can transfer to your dog and make it that much more difficult for all.
If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.
NOTE:
Please have your dog on a leash throughout the parking lot and building interior. Note the building is unfortunately non-accessible (wheelchair, etc) and you will need to use stairs to get to the studio on the second floor.