What to Expect From a Dog Photography Session

Been thinking about a portrait session for your dog, but you have questions?

You share your life with a dog who means the world to you, one you can’t imagine life without. And while we all know our time with them is never long enough, a portrait session is a beautiful way to celebrate the incredible companion who found their way into your life.

But maybe you’re wondering how it works… or if your dog can actually do this.

Totally normal.

If you’re new to professional dog photography, you probably have a few questions—and maybe a couple concerns. Let’s talk about them.

First, who this is perfect for

A dog portrait session is perfect for people who adore their dogs and want more than phone snapshots. Maybe your dog is in the prime of their life and you want to capture this short time of perfection or perhaps your dog is getting older and you want to remember that soft sweet face for the rest of your life. Maybe they just came into your life and you can’t imagine it without them. Or maybe you simply want beautiful artwork of the dog who makes your life better every day.

I can say with certainty, that I've never heard anyone say they wished they hadn't had professional portraits done. Most of my clients tell me the same thing:
“I wish I had done this sooner.”

“What if my dog doesn’t behave?”

The good news: your dog does not need to be perfectly trained.

During your session, your dog can stay on leash the entire time. I’ll handle getting their attention and capturing those expressions you love.

Dogs move. They sniff. They wiggle. That’s normal.

Sometimes we’ll set up three or four times in the same spot before everything lines up perfectly. Then we move on to the next spot and your dog gets a little sniff break while we walk.

“My dog isn’t a model…”

Neither are most dogs. (Mine only think they are because they’re used to the camera.)

Your dog doesn’t need to look a certain way or know fancy tricks. They don’t need to be Instagram famous.

They just need to be themselves.

Happy, goofy, serious, quirky or even grumpy, whatever makes your dog your dog. During the session, some dogs settle in right away. Others take a little time. Either way, we work at your dog’s pace.

“My dog is reactive around other dogs”

No problem.

I have several quieter locations where we’re much less likely to run into people or dogs. And if we do, there’s plenty of space to maintain enough distance to keep everyone comfortable.

“My dog is nervous around people”

Depending on your dog’s comfort level, I can photograph from a distance using long lenses so your dog has plenty of space.

In fact, my favorite portrait lens is the same one I use for dogs who prefer a little extra bubble space.

“What actually happens during a session?”

We’ll meet at our chosen location about two hours before sunset.

We’ll walk around, find great spots, and pause at each one for a few photos. You’ll guide your dog into place while I make ridiculous noises, toss things in the air, and generally do whatever it takes to get those great expressions and alert ears.

When your dog moves out of place, we simply reset and try again. Sessions are relaxed, and there’s plenty of time for sniff breaks along the way.

“How does the whole process work?”

We usually start with a quick phone call so you can tell me about your dog and what you’re hoping for. We’ll choose a location that fits your dog’s personality and the type of scenery you love.

On session day, we meet at the location and photograph your dog during the best afternoon light.

After the session, we meet over Google Meet for the official unveiling of your images. This is when you’ll choose your favorite images and decide what products you would like them printed on.

Once selections are made, I go to work removing leashes, cleaning up distractions, and polishing each image. That process takes about two weeks.

When everything is ready, I’ll send download link for your digital images and place your product orders. Most products arrive within two to three weeks, and I personally deliver them when they’re ready.

“Do I need to bring anything?”

A few basics help:

Treats
Water and a bowl
Poop bags
A favorite toy (if your dog has one)

I usually start with lower-value rewards and work up if needed. Some dogs lose their minds the second they see a treat or toy, so we save those for later if necessary.

“What if I’m awkward in front of a camera?”

Same.

Good news: the focus is on your dog. But I always recommend jumping in for a few images together, and I’ll guide you so it feels natural and relaxed.

What clients love most about these sessions

Their dog didn’t need to be perfectly trained
The session felt relaxed and fun
The locations were beautiful but easy to access
Seeing their dog’s personality captured in a way they never could themselves

One of the things I hear most often after a session is:
“I have thousands of photos of my dog on my phone, but nothing like these.”

“What does this cost?”

There is a session fee that includes a product credit toward your images.

Most clients invest around $1,500 depending on the artwork and products they choose.

You can find full details on the session information and product pages.

“What if the photos don’t turn out?”

I offer a happiness guarantee.

If you don’t love your images, I’ll refund your session fee.

Thinking about a session for your dog?

The first step is just a quick conversation so I can learn about your dog and what you’re hoping for.

You can book a call or reserve a session online.

Schedule a Phone Call

Schedule Your Dog's Session

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What to Expect From a Dog Portrait Session