What to expect when we photograph your pet
About Our Pet Sessions
Our In Studio Sessions are designed for house pets. You will be bringing your pet into our house. Please make sure that their immunizations are current and that they do not have fleas. The most important thing to remember is, your pet is being asked to do things that they normally do, but with someone else watching. They will be excited and want to please you. If you start getting "frustrated" with your pet, your pet will "sense" it and will not cooperate. Please let us know if your pet has issues with flashing lights. Some pets think the flash is llightning and become frightened. If your pet has behavioral issues or is extremely aggressive, we need to know what "sets them off" prior to the session to avoid this situation. For example, Kris once photographed a police dog and was told not to lay on the floor, as this would make him become extremely aggressive and pounce on her.
When you arrive
Before entering our studio, please allow your pet to "do their business" outside. We will take the time to allow your pet to "warm up" to us. Your pet will be allowed to "roam" our studio and "check things out". We will take the time to talk, pet and play with your pet, so they will be at ease around us.
Boo boos and accidents
We KNOW that your pet is house trained. Please allow them to do their business outside before coming into the studio. They are in a new environment and probably smell a pet from three weeks ago (since most dogs have a keen sense of smell 250 times greater than a human) and will try to mark their territory. Please remember....do NOT yell at your pet! This will cause a bigger mess to clean up than if you just let them "do their thing". We have cleaning equipment at our disposal. During the session, if your pet becomes anxious, we will give them a break and allow you to take them outside.
Who handles your pet?
You will be in charge of your pet at all times. We will NOT attempt to move or touch your animal once the session starts, (other than an occasional pet for praise) as we do not know if your pet has any type of sensitivity to being touched in certain places. We do not wish to be bitten.
Leave your treats at home
We have found that MOST dogs are "food motivated". This means that IF you bring out their treats, they are NOT going to do exactly what we need them to do. We have found that in MOST cases, your pet will sit by your side and beg for a treat while not sitting in the area that we need them to be photographed.
But most of all!
Remember to take a deep breath and have fun! We have photographed pets over 35 years. Even if you think your pet is NOT going to cooperate, you will be pleasantly surprised! Contact Us for On Location Sessions of Large Animals such as horses and farm animals.