Pet Photography Frequently Asked Questions
Pet Photography Sessions
What kind of pet portrait session does Pet Expressions Photography offer?
Photos are taken in a studio with a white background and bright lights for an elegant and timeless feel.
Scheduling Your Session
On which days of the week do you schedule pet portrait sessions?
We schedule portraits sessions any day of the week.
How can I schedule a pet portrait session?
To schedule your pet photoshoot session, call 702-285-2982 or email us at rose@petexpressionsphotography.com. Please try to schedule your session at least two weeks in advance.
Can I have more than one pet at the pet photoshoot?
The base fee for a pet photoshoot includes up to two (2) pets. Each additional pet will add $35.00 to the session fee. Please let us know ahead of time if you have more than two (2) pets, so we can make any special arrangements.
Do you photograph animals other than cats and dogs?
Yes! We do all sorts of professional animal photography, including birds, fish, rabbits, turtles, etc.
What is the payment process?
We require a 50% deposit to schedule your session. The remaining charges are payable in full on the date of the portrait session before shooting begins. We accept cash, check, or credit card.
What if I have to reschedule my pet portrait session?
The deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE, but you may postpone or reschedule the session up to 3 (three) days prior to the scheduled time. Rescheduled sessions must fall within 3 (three) months of the original date.
Do you have any additional fees?
Special assignments will be charged according to the additional time incurred. The fee for each additional half-hour is $50.00.
Preparing For Your Session
Do you offer design consultation prior to the pet portrait session?
A design consultation prior to the portrait session is optional and free of charge. We strongly recommend you take advantage of this consultation, especially if the pet has behavioral issues.
This is a time for the pet(s) to get used to us and most importantly, it is an opportunity for us to get know the pet’s personality, temperament and the essence of its relationship with you.
Based on what we learn, we will be able to make recommendations. If you decide during the design consultation that what we offer is not what you are looking for, there is no obligation to schedule a session.
How do I get my pet ready for the portrait session?
Your pet should be groomed and given as much exercise as possible prior to the session. It is very helpful if your pet is tired and a little hungry. Optionally, you may bring your pet’s favorite toys. Treats are used as a last resort.
If I am going to be in the portrait, what should I do to prepare myself?
If you are joining your pet in the portrait session, your attire is important. We recommend solid colors, white or off-white clothing, to blend with the background. Stay away from busy patterns.
For a classic or formal look, a long-sleeved top is ideal. For a more informal look, a casual outfit is recommended.
Feel free to bring more than one clothing option with you for your portrait session.
Does my pet need to know basic commands?
Knowing basic commands helps the session move quickly and provides a wider selection of excellent posed images.
If your pet does not take commands well, the session time can be lengthened at no additional cost.
With patience and perseverance, we can usually get great images, even if your pet does not want to cooperate.
If we do not capture any images that please you, we will be happy to redo the photoshoot free of charge.
During The Session
What happens during a pet portrait session?
After arriving at the studio, your leashed pet will spend some time exploring the new territory.
During the photo session, we will use objects such as a whistle, squeaky toys, and treats to grab your pet’s attention. Our goal is to capture your pet’s true personality and playful expressions and provide you the best possible variety of images from which to make a selection.
If needed, we will have a break for water and potty.
How long does a pet portrait session last?
The length will vary according to each pet. Plan for approximately one hour in the studio.
How involved will I be in my pet portrait session?
We will work with your pet directly, but your help may be necessary, such as standing behind the photographer to help your pet look at the camera. We also can work with you on any special idea(s) you may have.
Sometimes, however, the presence of the parent in the studio is distracting.
In this case, we will ask the parent to step out of the studio, so we can grab the pet’s attention.
Do I see every photograph that is taken?
No. Because of the need to take test pictures to adjust lighting, camera position, composition, and pose, we take a lot of ‘waste’ images that are not of any use.
We also use high-speed bursts to ensure that we capture the best expressions possible. For these reasons, we select the best pictures for you to look at and let you choose the ones you like.
Viewing & Ordering Photos
What happens after my pet portrait session?
Within 4 (four) weeks of your pet portrait session, we will contact you to arrange the best way for you to view the image proofs, select the images included in the Portrait Session Package, and place additional orders.
How many images will be available for the selection?
Normally, between 20 to 30, but it may be higher or lower depending on the pet’s cooperation. If your pet does not take commands well or does not want to cooperate, the number of images will be less.
Can I purchase the digital negatives?
For every print you purchase we will include the corresponding digital image in a print format and web format.
Ten (10) digital files of retouched images from your portrait session are available for purchase for $500.
What do you charge for Advanced Retouching?
Advanced Retouching is charged according to the time we spend working on post-production. We will give you a price quote in advance.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.
