What to Expect
What to Expect From Your Pet Photo Shoot
Whether this is your first photo shoot or you’ve done it before, I want you to know exactly what to expect from your pet photo shoot with me. From our first call to the moment your artwork goes up on the wall, I’ll guide you through every step. (Yes—I can help you hang your photos!)
“It is heartwarming to see love hanging on my wall.”
That’s what one of my clients said after hanging her portraits—and that’s exactly my goal during every session: to create photographs of your four-legged family members that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Want a quick overview?
In this short video, I’ll walk you through how everything works—from our first chat to the moment you see your final photos.
Getting Started
We’ll kick things off with a quick phone call to go over the basics—what you’re looking for, session options, products, and pricing. If it feels like a good fit, we’ll schedule a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. That’s where I start getting to know you and your pets and where we begin planning your session.
Pre-Session Consultation
This consultation can happen in person, over Zoom, or on the phone—whatever works best for you. The consultation is all about your pet and the bond you share. I’ll ask about their personality and your connection so I can capture it in photos. We’ll also talk about where in your home you might want to hang your images. When I know that ahead of time, I photograph with that in mind.
If you decide to move forward, we’ll pick a date and location. A lot of sessions happen on my private property, which I’ve landscaped specifically for photography and filled with unique props. But I’m just as happy to come to your home or meet you at a favorite park. And if your pet doesn’t go outside—like some cats or lizards—I’ll photograph them where they’re most comfortable: at home.
I schedule all photos sessions either in the early morning or late afternoon, because that is when the light is most flattering. A session fee is required to hold your date.
Need help getting your pet ready? This guide walks you through what to do before the shoot.
Wondering what to wear? Check out my tips for looking your best.
The Photo Shoot
This is the fun part! Most sessions last about 90 minutes but not because we’re shooting the whole time. I build in plenty of time for pets to sniff around, explore, and settle in. They get to do their thing, and I get to do mine: shaping the light, choosing the best backgrounds, and creating the right conditions for great photos. Whether your pet is energetic or more easygoing, I’ll work with their personality and pace to capture who they truly are. And if you’d like to be in the photos too (which I highly recommend!), we’ll absolutely include images that reflect the bond you share.
Your Ordering Session
About a week after your session, we’ll meet again—either in person or over Zoom—for your ordering appointment. I’ll show you partially edited proofs of the best images from your session, and we’ll go through everything together. I’ll help you choose your favorites and decide which sizes and products will work best for your space and your decorating style.
To make things even easier, I use software that shows you images to scale on photos of your own walls. Just send me pictures of any walls where you’re thinking about hanging your photos. I’ll show you exactly how everything will look—no guesswork, and no need to tape paper to the wall. Just the confidence of knowing your artwork will be the perfect fit for your home.
After You Place Your Order
Once you place your order, I’ll start the full retouching and final artwork on every photo you’ve purchased as a printed product.This part takes time—prints are usually ready in about four weeks, and albums take about six.
You can pay in full, split it into two payments (half when you place your order, half at delivery), or set up a payment plan—whatever works best for you.
And as a bonus, you’ll receive free digital versions of every photo you’ve purchased in print, perfectly sized for social media. They’re delivered in a digital album so you don’t have to scroll endlessly through your phone to find your favorites—they’ll all be right there, easy to share and enjoy.
My Promise to You
I want you to love your photos—truly love them. If something isn’t right, I’ll fix it—I stand behind every image I create.