BEFORE THE SESSION - I will send you a questionnaire about your pet (likes, dislikes, allergies, favourite trick) We will then talk about your vision for the photos then set a location and time.
DAY OF THE SHOOT - I spend the first few minutes getting to know your pet which includes treats and toys. Once your pet is comfortable with me and my camera we’ll progress to photos in picturesque areas according to the season and location.
GOALS FOR THE SESSION - the goal is to get great photos while having fun! Even if you think your pet isn't obedient or too excited I can get great shots! A good walk before the session will help.
THE VISION - we'll discuss the vision for the photos before the session. We can meet at a beach, in the woods, at your home. Want a sunset silhouette? your pet playing in the water? Want to take your photo to the next level of cute by adding props?
PROPS - I have many available: wicker chaise, chairs, buckets, baskets, apple crate, scarves, necklaces, hats, ties and a tutu or two.
GROOMING - if you’re going to take your dog to the groomers, please do it a week before your session. I want your dog to look like the dog you see every day. If your dog has long hair over it's eyes, you may want to ask your groomer to trim it so we can see them. The soul of a dog can be seen in its eyes.
AT THE SESSION
MANNERS - I do expect good manners from pets and their family; aggression towards me or other people or animals at the photo shoot location and unfortunately I will have to cancel the session. This includes aggression towards you, your children and your pet. You will be reimbursed up to 50% of the session fee if the session is cancelled for aggression. You are responsible for the control of your pet and children. Some pets do not like new situations, sometimes a photo shoot at home is the best way to get great photos. No photos will be delivered for a session cancelled for behaviour issues.
LEASHES & HARNESSES - If we’re inside your home or in your fenced yard, your pet won’t need to be leashed. However, if we do the shoot in public, due to local leash by-laws your dog will need to be on a leash. Don't worry though, I can remove most leashes and/or collars in the editing process.
There's only so much that can be edited out of a photo, large or boldly coloured collars and leashes can distract from your pet in a photo and may be impossible to remove during editing. If you have a simple training collar and leash please bring them with you. I will also bring kennel leads, leashes and collars just in case.
SESSION TIME - to ensure we use the full allotted time photographing your pet, please ensure you arrive on time and your pets are clean, brushed, exercised and pottied before your session.
WHO WILL BE IN THE PHOTO - this photo shoot will be focused on your pet but I’m more than happy to include you in a couple of the photos. We can talk about this before the session and what clothing you should wear (simple black or white clothing without loud patterns photographs work well and won't remove the focus from your pet).
CHILDREN - If you want your children photographed with your pet we can discuss the different options available beforehand. Children often get bored during a photoshoot, so if you need to bring them, please bring somebody to watch them. I often need the pet owner to assist with the shoot by holding leashes, treats or getting your pet's attention. If you can arrange for a babysitter at home they'll be even happier than standing around watching.
PAYMENT - to secure your booking I require a non-refundable downpayment of 1/2 of the session fee at booking. The remainder is required prior to the photo shoot.
SCHEDULING - if we have to re-schedule an outdoor shoot due to inclement weather I will contact you the night before. If an emergency arises please try to give me 12 hours notice - I am only able to re-schedule for emergencies once.
