studio sessions for pets
there's always time for naps at my studio sessions
my approach
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Is your dog fearful, shy, or not great with other dogs? Do they need a bit more time to feel comfortable in new situations, with new people, at new places? Are they older, slower, palliative and maybe need a calm, quiet atmosphere?
My approach when photographing pets is one of patience and taking the session at a pace that's suitable for them. With over 10 years of photographing dogs who are either in, or have been in the care of a rescue or shelter, I tend to gravitate to those who need a bit more time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. As well, I want to provide an opportunity to those dogs (and the lovely humans who are helping them along), by creating a comfortable space for them to help keep their stress or anxiety in check and if I'm lucky, build a bit of trust and make a new friend along the way. Some of the stress-reducing options can include: play breaks (to get out any extra wiggles that may be building up), a treat game, a wee nap, having you sit with them or offer a reassuring touch, background music (from calming sounds to heavy metal - whatever their jam may be) or a quick jaunt outside to the yard to reset. The results? A short story that captures and embraces your dog's expressions, emotions and personality. My studio is located on a quiet residential street and I ensure there is lots of space between bookings so things aren't rushed on my end and your dog doesn't have to meet anyone they don't want to. |
peaches
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Sessions are available on both weekdays and weekends in my creative space -- a cottage-like studio on a quiet avenue in the Gorge/Admirals area of Victoria. I have a dog-specific playlists and treats. But feel free to bring your dog's favourite.
- Choose from a variety of backdrops: paper (white, black, purple, blue), beaded, paintings or we could even set up a special scene! Let's collaborate!
- Sessions can run from approximately 30-60 mins and if your dog is shy, fearful or even palliative, I want to work with you and them to make this as comfortable as possible.
- Sessions include:
- one set of edited and retouched digital files suitable for printing and a second set sized for sharing on your socials
- custom monograph of your session (PDF format)
- Add ons can include:
- hard or softcover book versions of your monograph - a baby brag book of sorts to keep on your coffee table and share with all your guests
- custom greeting cards
- postcards (because who wouldn't want to get a picture of your dog in the mail?!?)
- Prices start at $195* for one dog
- extra dogs are welcome with fees depending on size and enthusiasm!
- extra dogs are welcome with fees depending on size and enthusiasm!
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FAQs
- Do you do outdoor or on-location sessions? Absolutely! Pricing starts at $250 and can jump to $500+ depending on number of dogs, location, add-ons, etc. On-location session info here
- I have 2/3/4+ dogs - how many can you accommodate? Nice! It kinda depends on your dogs. If they're super chill and are used to hanging out close, we can make it work. However, if they aren't stoked on sharing the spotlight, we might have to do solo or two at a time.... but let's chat!
- Can I join in on the session? Sure, but please don't be offended if I try to offer you a treat to get you to look at my camera!
- My dog doesn't like to sit/lay down/pose. No problem... whether your dog has some fancy tricks or prefers to chill out, curl up in your lap, play with a stuffy, or nap... that's cool. This isn't meant to stress them out in any way - think of it more as a hang out or play time, just super casual and force free. I will admit, I do ask all dogs to 'look cute'... but all dogs nail this 100% of the time!
- What if I have to cancel last minute? There is a deposit at booking which holds your session date and time. Should you need to postpone, that deposit moves to your new session. Sessions cancelled outright without 48 hours notice forfeit their deposit.
- Do you offer mini sessions? I don't do the mini-session blitz type of thing as it's too much for me to do on my own, but if your budget is tight, feel free to get in touch and we can see about working something out. I have partnered with local rescues where mini sessions are available so will share details on my socials if/when they come up.
- My dog is palliative, can you come to us? Absolutely. I will do all I can to make this work, please contact me as early as possible after your pet's diagnosis so we can determine timing and plan the session details. More information on Before I Go sessions here.
- I'm fostering a dog/have a dog in the care of my rescue who needs a new photo for their bio, can you help? Yes, I love to collaborate with rescues whose mission is in alignment with mine. I do keep aside time for 'photographed with love' sessions which are part of my Home Away From Home volunteer work. Please contact me for more info.
- Do you photograph other animals? I sure do! Feel free to substitute cat, bunny, hamster, rat, etc, in place of dog.
- This page seems to be lacking in cute dog photos... where can I see more examples of your work?
- Pop over to PETS and ADVOCACY + ART