Frequently Asked Questions
About Dog Photography Sessions

Most questions people ask before a dog photography session come down to the same thing: what will this actually be like for my dog?

That’s a fair question. Most dogs don’t walk into a studio with perfect manners, and most people don’t feel completely comfortable being in front of a camera.

This page covers the most common questions about how sessions work, what’s expected of your dog, and what you can expect from me during the process. If you don’t see your question here, you can always reach out directly.

  • Yes.

    Most dogs don’t arrive with polished obedience, and they don’t need it here. Sessions are designed around real dog behavior, not ideal behavior.

    It helps if your dog is comfortable with a simple sit and a short wait, but not because perfection is required. It simply gives us a starting point while I work quickly to capture natural expressions and moments.

    Many clients are surprised by how often we get what looks like a “perfect sit” in a split second. That usually comes down to timing, not training.

    If your dog doesn’t have that yet, we adjust. That’s part of the process.

  • Yes.

    Senior dogs are often some of the most meaningful sessions.

    The pace is slower, the expectations are lower, and comfort leads every decision. We take breaks as needed and adjust everything to match your dog’s mobility and energy level.

    The goal is not performance. It’s preserving personality, expression, and the way your dog feels in this stage of life.

  • It happens.

    If it does, we pause the session, clean up the area, and take your dog outside for a reset. Then we continue with the time we have left.

    The studio is prepared for this, so it rarely disrupts the session for long.

    In the rare case of damage beyond normal cleaning, reimbursement may be requested depending on the situation.

  • Grooming can help, but timing matters more than precision.

    Right after a full grooming appointment, some dogs feel slightly unfamiliar in their own coat. That can sometimes show up in how relaxed they are.

    I usually recommend scheduling the session about one to two weeks after grooming so your dog still looks tidy, but feels like themselves.

    If timing doesn’t line up, we still work with what you have. There is no “correct” version of your dog required for the session.

    You can learn my top session prep tips here.

  • Your unedited proofing gallery is delivered within a few days of your session.

    Once it arrives, you’ll be able to view and choose your favorite images. Some clients select a few favorites, others build a larger collection, and some move into printed artwork right away.

    Images are selected and download from your gallery. Artwork and prints are order from the web store.

  • Yes.

    Ordering wall art and prints from the online store‍ ‍directly supports The Dog Photog. It’s also the only printer that I am able to guarantee your images will be printed properly.

    Examples of wall art and print options are available to view at the studio during your session.

    If you need help choosing sizes or placements, I can guide you after your session.

  • Yes.

    Gift certificates are available for all session (including a 3-image session only available via gift certificate) and can be purchased online.

    A physical certificate is mailed within a few business days of ordering.

    The recipient will be able to schedule their session at their convenience using a QR on the gift certificate.

  • Backdrop colors rotate throughout the year depending on availability and seasonal updates.

    The most popular colors include Blue Mist, Lavender, and Mint Green.

    All sessions include a custom color palette sharing my top 3 suggestions for which colors help your dog look their best.

    A turf surface is also available for dogs who prefer something less smooth than paper.

  • The Dog Photog studio is located in northeast Minneapolis inside the Holland Arts West Building on 22nd Avenue NE.

    Fun fact: Holland Arts West was built in 1916 as a Polish Catholic school.

    Full directions and parking details are emailed before your session.

  • Yes.

    While dogs are the primary focus, I’ve also photographed cats, ferrets, guinea pigs, bearded dragons and other small animals.

    If you’re planning a session for a non-dog pet, it’s best to contact me in advance so I can make sure the setup will work well for them.

  • Sessions can be rescheduled with advance notice, and in some cases refunds may apply depending on timing and circumstances.

    Each session time is reserved specifically for you and your dog, so last-minute changes are difficult to fill, but I do my best to work with reasonable situations.

    Full details are available on the cancellation policy page, or you can reach out with specific questions.