Pet Photography

Booking your Session

For most sessions, we recommend starting first thing in the morning (around 7:00 am) or later in the day, near sunset (around 4:00 to 5:00 pm} depending on the season. These times of day give us the best natural light and are slightly cooler for our four-legged friends.

To reserve your date, a 50% deposit is due at the time of booking. The deposit is applied to your session fee and is non-refundable. We also require a signed contract and model release before your session. The remaining balance of your session fee is due on the date of your session. We’re happy to reschedule your session in the event of inclement weather or illness, but we ask that you give us as much notice as possible.

Location for your Session

First, you’ll need to choose your location. Home is always a great choice, especially for shy dogs. Parks, the beach, and quiet urban areas are nice choices, too. Ultimately, it’s up to you and where you and your pets will be most comfortable and, most importantly, safe.

While the primary focus of this session is your four-legged friend, we welcome you to join in for some of the shots! Even if you don’t wish to be included, do be mindful of what you wear as you will likely appear (at least in part) in some of the images.

The remainder of your session fee (minus the deposit) will be due on or before the photo session.

After the Session

About two to three days after your session, we’ll email you with a link to your private online gallery!

This will contain all the images that passed our culling process so you can review and choose your favourites – remember, your session fee includes a set number of high-resolution digital images – you are welcome to order additional images or products from your gallery. This gallery is only available online for 30 days, so you’ll want to be sure to set aside time to place your order during this timeframe.

You are under no obligation to make any additional purchases, but many of our clients choose to invest in quality photo products from us.

All product payments will be due in full before the order is processed and delivered.

Receiving your Digital Files

You will receive a Discount Code to apply during Check-Out which will allow you to download the set number of images included in your package. Additional purchased images will be released for download once paid for.

Receiving your Prints and Products

If you decide you’d like to purchase physical products in addition to the digital images included in your session fee, your beautiful photo products will be delivered to you within 7 to 10 days.

Let the dogs out!

A well-exercised pet is a well-behaved pet, so it’s helpful to take your dog for a 30-minute walk about an hour before the session. It’s also a good idea to feed him or her a little less than normal before the shoot – when a dog is a little hungry, he or she will be more inclined to behave well for treats!

Grooming

To prepare, we recommend quick grooming before the session to ensure your pet is looking his or her best! It doesn’t have to be professional – just a quick brushing, cleaning the eyes, trimming the nails, etc.

If your dog is prone to tear or beard stains, definitely try to clean those up ahead of time.

What to bring with you

• Water bowl & bottle
• Small hand towel
• Leash (the thinner the better)
• Plastic potty bags
• Favourite treats
• Brush or comb
• Small squeaky toys or other favourite toys
• Lint roller

You’re more than welcome to bring any props you think will help us tell the story of your pet! A dapper collar, favourite toys and cute accessories can enhance the session but aren’t necessary. Please feel free to ask us for advice on what would look best.

Your pet’s safety during this session is our number one priority. You must be present for the entire duration of the session. If you have concerns about your dog being off-leash during the session, please use the leash. However, if you plan to do so, we recommend a thin style of leash, as it will be less noticeable and easier to remove in post-processing.

What should my pet wear?

Often, a pretty collar is plenty! You may even want to splurge on a new one to match your outfit just for the photo shoot. However, props and other accessories can be fun too.

Just be sure that your pet is comfortable in clothing or accessories – no one wants photos of their dog looking depressed!

More Tips

• Don’t choose clothing that has large pictures, labels, logos, or words on it. This often looks too casual for a photo shoot and detracts from the overall feel of a photo. Try to stick with more classic clothes that will show something other than what clothing brands you favour.
• Avoid sleeveless shirts.
• Choose a contrasting yet complementary colour to your pet.
• This one is really important! Black pet? Avoid solid white clothing. White pet? Avoid black clothing. Pet fur is inevitable, but you don’t want it in your photos.
• Jeans are always a good choice. Seriously, you can’t go wrong!
• Clean up any tear stains or beard stains on your pet, as well as brush them and trim their nails so they’re looking their best.

We look forward to our session with you!