A: Not at all! Most of the pets I photograph are just regular, happy dogs — not trained models. We work with their energy and personality, and my assistant (my husband!) is there to help keep them engaged, safe, and happy.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to have a well-trained dog to book a session?
Q: My dog can’t be off-leash. Can I still get good photos?
A: Absolutely! Most of the dogs I photograph are leashed during their session. I carefully remove leashes during the editing process when requested, so your final images look natural and polished — safety always comes first.
Q: What if the weather is bad on the day of our session?
A: If it’s pouring rain, dangerous wind, or extreme temperatures, we’ll reschedule at no cost. Cloudy days actually photograph beautifully, but your pet’s comfort and safety are always top priority.
Q: Can we choose the location for our session?
A: Absolutely! I love photographing pets in meaningful places — whether that’s your backyard, a favorite trail, or one of my go-to scenic spots around Duluth or Superior. Travel within the Duluth/Superior area is always included in your session. If you're hoping for a session farther out, I’m happy to chat! A small travel fee may apply for locations more than 30 minutes from Duluth.
Q: Can I be in the photos with my dog?
A: Of course! Every session includes options for portraits of your pet alone and moments with their person. Your bond is the heart of the session.
Q: What if my pet gets distracted or isn’t cooperating?
A: That’s totally normal. I work at your pet’s pace and bring patience, treats, and plenty of encouragement. My assistant helps keep your pet engaged so we can capture those natural, joyful moments.
Q: Can we do outfit changes or different looks?
A: Yes! Especially in longer sessions (Not available for Bite-sized), outfit changes or simple accessories can add variety. We can use a changing poncho or car-based quick change if we’re outdoors.
Q: How will I receive my images?
A: You’ll receive a private, password-protected online gallery where you can view, download, and share your images. From there, you’ll be able to download both web-sized and high-resolution versions of your final edited photos. If you'd like to turn your images into keepsakes or wall art, you're always welcome to reach out to order prints and products directly through me.
Q: What's the difference between web-sized and high-resolution images?
A: Web-sized images are smaller files, perfect for sharing on social media, email, or websites. They load quickly and look great online — but they’re not recommended for printing.
High-resolution images are full-size files with all the detail needed for printing at any size. These are the ones you’ll want to use if you're printing your photos at home or through a professional lab.
Q: When can I expect my photos to be ready?
A: Turnaround time is typically 2–4 weeks, depending on your session type and the season. Every image you receive is individually hand-edited — I go far beyond basic retouching to ensure your gallery feels polished, cohesive, and true to your story. This includes things like leash and distraction removal, color grading to match the mood of your session, gentle retouching where needed, and detailed finishing touches that bring each moment to life. It’s not just editing — it’s part of the art. I treat every image like it’s going on my own wall — because I know how much these memories matter.
Q: Can I print the photos myself?
A: Yes! Every delivered image includes full print and sharing rights. You also have the option to order heirloom-quality prints and keepsakes through my exclusive professional lab for stunning results.
Q: Do you offer products like albums or gifts?
A: Absolutely. I offer fine art prints, custom ornaments, calendars, and more — all handcrafted with your photos through a professional lab. Just ask!
Q: Do all packages really include a custom bandana?
A: Yes! Every session includes a reversible, slip-on bandana made just for your pet — and it’s yours to keep. You’ll be able to choose from seasonal themes or personalize it with your pet’s name.
Because it slips over your pet’s collar, there’s no tying required — it’s secure, comfy, and easy to wear (even for wiggle-butts). If your dog isn’t a fan of wearing accessories, no problem — you’ll still get to keep it as part of your session keepsakes.
