Before Your Dog Portrait Session
It starts with a conversation
Every dog is different, and every session has its own reasons for being important. Maybe your dog is getting older, you've recently welcomed a new member to the family, or you simply want beautiful portraits of the dog who makes your house feel like home.
A Personalized Experience for You and Your Dog
We'll start with a short inquiry call to get to know each other, talk about why you're considering a session now, and learn what you'd love to have from your portraits. I'll walk you through my process, answer your initial questions, and help you decide if we're a good fit.
Ready to book? Your $149 session fee reserves your portrait session during our call. Digital images, wall art, and albums are purchased separately after your session, so you can choose the portraits and products you truly love.
Your virtual Design Consultation
Once your session is booked, we'll schedule a virtual Design Consultation to prepare for your time in the studio.
We'll talk about what to bring, what to wear if you'd like to join your dog in some of the portraits, and how we'll work together to capture photos that look and feel like your dog. We'll also explore my Background Color options, and I'll share professional recommendations to complement your dog's coat, features, and the overall look you're going for.
We'll finish by scheduling your virtual Image Reveal, when you'll see your portraits for the first time and choose your favorites.
Get excited…
I've got the rest covered
You don't need a perfectly trained dog, a practiced pose, or a plan for every little detail. I'll guide you through the process, and we'll work at your dog's pace.
Your job is to show up with your dog. Mine is to make the experience a good one for both of you.
How to Prepare Your Dog—and Yourself
A little preparation goes a long way, but there is no need to spend weeks training your dog to be a model.
Your session is designed around your dog’s personality, not perfect obedience. Some dogs arrive ready to work, while others need a little time to sniff, explore, and get comfortable in the studio.
Both are completely normal.
Weeks Before Your Session
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If your dog needs a haircut, bath, or professional grooming, schedule it a few days before your session so they have time to settle back into their normal routine.
A freshly groomed dog is wonderful, but a comfortable dog is always the priority.
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If your dog knows cues like sit, stay, or look at me, that can sometimes be helpful during a session.
But don't worry if your dog isn't a perfect student. Beautiful portraits come from connection and personality—not a list of commands.
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Every dog has their own needs. Let me know before your session if your dog is:
shy or nervous in new environments
reactive around other dogs or people
uncomfortable with certain handling
a senior or has mobility concerns
Knowing these details ahead of time helps me create the best experience possible for your dog.
The Morning of Your Session
Keep your dog's routine as normal as possible.
A calm, comfortable dog will have a much better experience than one who feels like their entire day has been turned upside down.
Before arriving:
Feed your dog their normal meal
consider giving a slightly smaller portion (to balance the amount of treats during the session)
Give them a potty break
Avoid introducing new foods or treats before your session.
You do not need to tire your dog out before arriving. Their natural energy, curiosity, and personality are often what make the portraits special.
What to Bring to Your Session
You don't need to pack your entire dog's toy collection. (They will probably still find a way to choose the one toy you hoped they wouldn't.)
A few helpful things to bring:
Favorite treats (keep put away until asked)
Favorite toy or comfort item (keep put away until asked)
Brush or grooming tools for any last-minute touch-ups
Any special items you'd like photographed
I have plenty of studio supplies available, so don't worry if you forget something.
Your Dog Doesn’t Need to
Be Perfect
One of the most common questions I hear is: "What if my dog doesn't behave?"
The answer is simple: that's okay.
Some dogs are wiggly. Some are shy. Some are more interested in exploring the studio than looking at the camera. Some need a little extra patience before they are ready.
Those moments are part of who they are.
My job isn't to force your dog into a perfect pose. My job is to create a comfortable environment where your dog's personality can come through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
Explore the FAQ page →
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Your puppy does not need to be perfectly trained before their portrait session.
While basic cues like sit or stay can sometimes be helpful, they are not required. Many of the best portraits happen in the moments between commands, when your puppy's personality naturally comes through.
If you have a young puppy and want to capture this stage, it is usually better to schedule sooner rather than waiting for "perfect" behavior.
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Accidents happen. Dogs are dogs, and the studio is prepared for that.
There is no need to feel embarrassed or stressed. We'll clean it up, take a moment, and keep going.
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Unedited portrait proofs are delivered within a week of your session. After submitting your favorite proofs, the final edited images will be delivered within two weeks.
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Cancellation and Rescheduling Policies:
Within 24 hours of booking: Clients may cancel for a full refund (minus card payment processing fees).
Up to 7 days before Session: Clients may cancel for a 50% refund (minus fees) or reschedule at The Dog Photog's availability.
48 hours or less before Session: No refund, but rescheduling at The Dog Photog's availability is allowed.
Injury or Illness: If a dog is injured or ill prior to the session, rescheduling is allowed at any time with no additional charge.
Dog Passing: If your dog passes before the session, a full refund (minus card processing fees) will be issued.
Ready for your dog's portrait experience?
Now that you know what happens before your session, learn what to expect when you arrive at the studio.