Are you ready for your session?
Prepping for your session
Grooming/ Bathing
Investing in your dog photography session is a great experience, it’s therefore important that your pooch is looking their best. Depending on the breed of your dog & their coat, you may wish to have your dog groomed before the photo session. In which case you will want to plan this ahead of schedule in time before the shoot. We do not recommend the dog being groomed the same day as the photo session.
Or you may chose to bathe your dog before the session. You may want to bring wipes on the day to remove any doggy slobber or clean their eyes.
Sit/ Stay
There is absolutely no requirement for your dog to be able to sit or stay, or do any commands. We are able to tailor the session accordingly to work with all abilities on sessions. However, if they do have any hidden talents or special tricks do let me know and they can ‘perform’ on the day!
On the Day
Life is busy, I know how easy it is to get caught up in the day to day life. I would forget my head if it wasn’t screwed on. So below is a little nudge on what to bring on the day and what to expect.
Imagine you are meeting up with a friend and we are going for a stroll in the woods with your dog and my camera. That’s what you can expect, a chilled out walk in the woods with your friend!
On the day I’d suggest you bring water for yourself and your dog and your dog’s favourite toy and treats. You’re not a packhorse, I want you to be comfortable on the day, but bring along the essentials as required!
My photo sessions are usually held within the woodland, therefore you will need to be mindful of your footwear and the uneven terrain, which can often be muddy. To find idyllic spots to shoot in I often like to head off the beaten track, so its highly recommended to wear appropriate footwear such as hiking boots or wellies. It may be necessary to walk over uneven ground, climb sty’s, stroll up or down hillsides or navigate around low bush cover. Please bear this in mind when dressing for the session.
What to bring?
Treats (more options the better)
Favourite toy (A variety of toys and maybe a new one to arouse interest)
Balls
Poo bags
Brush to groom
Wipes to remove doggy slobber
Water/ water bowl
Collar/ lead
Snacks/ refreshments for yourself
Coins for car park
What to wear?
Comfy outdoor walking shoes (i.e wellies or hiking boots) It can often be muddy!
Warm clothing- depending on the time of year (hat, scarf, gloves, warm coat)
Appropriate clothing should you wish to be in the shot (I.e no logo’d clothing, no patterned clothing)
Sunglasses-/ sun hat/ sun cream depending on weather
Snacks or refreshments for yourself
What happens if it rains on the day?
We won’t be defeated by a bit of rain, however, I will monitor the weather forecast in the run-up to the session and will liaise with you directly. If it is deemed unsuitable for the session to go ahead I shall reschedule accordingly at a time and date to suit us both.
What if my dog is scared of the camera?
The session begins with a meet and greet, and time for your dog to become familiar with the new environment and my equipment. We will slowly introduce your dog to the camera at their pace using techniques to ease their anxiety. Should your dog require an intro session, this can also be arranged.
What if my dog cannot be off lead?
If your dog is a little unpredictable or reactive off lead we will tailor the session accordingly. Your dog will remain on the lead during the entire session and the images will be edited in a way to remove the lead and any distractions.
Dog lead/ Harness
Not all dogs can go off lead, and that is absolutely fine. It’s not a problem at all. You can opt for a nice lead and collar set, however I usually use my training slip lead which I can edit out when I work my magic in the editing suite. I do recommend that you don’t use a harness for your photoshoot. If your dog pulls a lot, then bring your harness and a collar, and we’ll simply take the harness off when needed.
Meal times
If the session is around your dogs meal time we suggest feeding them a lighter meal. We don’t want them to go hungry, but we also don’t want them to have a full belly as we want them to have an interest in treats during the session to grab their attention. Or maybe bring along their meal to use as treats!
Exercise/Rest
Before your session it’s a good idea to rest or exercise your dog depending on their needs. Some dogs will need a rest before an exciting photo session . Whereas some dogs will need a walk, to burn off their excess energy. Most clients take their dogs for a light walk before the session, but do not wear them out as we still want them to have some energy left for the session. We want their true personality to shine so we need them to be their true selves.
Be in the shot
The session is all about your dog!
However, Its always lovely to be in some shots with your dog. These are golden moments that you don’t get to capture yourself.
Most of us are all a little camera shy, it's a natural human behaviour. We worry how to pose, how to stand, where to look etc. However, I like to capture natural moments between you and your dog. I won’t ask you to pose, there is no need to even look at the camera. Just be yourself, with your dog, it’s a great way to create some beautiful memories. It's not a requirement, but it's an option should you wish to be in a few shots with your dog. I promise you will be glad you did. It's a moment between you and your dog that will be cherished forever.
On the day wear something you love, complimentary colours to your dog and avoid busy patterns as they can be distracting. And just see how you feel on the day. There will be no pressure from me, but if you’re dressed in something you love, you might want to give it a quick try!
After your session
When the session is over I will work my magic editing your images. I’ll edit the best images from the day, which takes me around two weeks. Once I have individually edited your images they will be available to view via an online gallery where you can take your time to relive the moments from the session.
The most challenging part of a dog photoshoot is actually choosing your final images! It’s a tough call. So take your time to review the images and choose your favourites from the gallery. You’ll receive a link to the product guide where you can purchase your favourite products or prints.
Once you have made your final image choices, email me to confirm your selection. I will then arrange with my print lab to have the artwork created. Once the artwork is ready (usually 2-4 weeks from confirming your selection) I will contact you to arrange collection of your special pieces. Here is when you get to see your artwork in the flesh and take home your master pieces to hang proudly on your wall.