Did you just get a new puppy or is one in your future? Puppy sessions are the perfect way to kick-off your new furry family member’s spot in your heart.
Below are typical questions I get asked about the puppy photography experience.
BONUS: An entire gallery example is included!
- My puppy doesn’t know any commands and doesn’t even understand what a leash is. Is that going to be a problem for a session?
- Absolutely not! It’s completely normal for young puppies to be unfamiliar with commands or leashes. Our sessions are designed to accommodate puppies at any stage of training, and we’ll adjust our approach to suit your puppy’s needs. Just focus on bringing your puppy and their playful spirit, and we’ll take care of the rest!
- What should I bring to the photo session?
- I recommend bringing your puppy’s favorite toys or treats to keep them engaged (it might be too early for favorites so just bring what you think!). Your puppy will probably have a new collar or two…feel free to bring as many as you’d like!
- How long will the photo session last?
- Typically, puppy photo sessions last between 1 to 2 hours to allow for breaks and adjustments. If you decide to upgrade to both a studio and outdoor experience, then it’ll be a bit longer. We aren’t photographing the whole time. There will be time for play and rest!
- Can I include family members or other pets in the photos?
- Yes, you can! We welcome & encourage humans to be in a few photos. And, you don’t even have to be in focus! You can be in without being “in”. See the gallery example below.
- What locations are suitable for the photo session?
- If you don’t know by now, AWP is a destination pet photography experience. With 70 acres and an indoor studio, our Portrait Park has it all!
- We can choose between studio or outdoor locations, depending on your preference. Would you like to do both? It’s just $95 to add a shorter studio or outdoor session. Most clients who decide to do both, do a shorter studio session and then do a larger outdoor session. Not sure? Don’t worry, I’ll help you with this on our planning call!
- How should I prepare my puppy for the session?
- Make sure your puppy is well-rested, groomed, and has relieved themselves before the session. That can happen when you arrive, of course. Also, try to avoid feeding him. Don’t forget some toys and treats (but I’ll also have some so it’s okay if you don’t!)
- Will you provide props, or should I bring my own?
- We can discuss this beforehand. For the most part, my style is simplistic so it’s basically choosing the background color first.
- What happens if my puppy gets restless or misbehaves during the session?
- It’s normal for puppies to get restless. I always say your puppy’s job is to be a puppy. That means all the puppy things are to be expected! I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’ve got many tricks up my sleeve and I have extensive experience photographing singles puppies all the way up to litters. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
- How far in advance should I schedule the photo session?
- It’s best to schedule your session a few weeks in advance to ensure availability. But, I know sometimes puppies can just happen so I try to find time to photograph them as I know time is of the essence. (This is the same for elderly dogs.)
- Can I view sample photos from previous puppy sessions?
- Yes, below is a collection of images from a puppy session. This client chose to do both studio and outdoor (the studio was first and not as long).
- What safety precautions are in place for my puppy during the session?
- Safety is a top priority! Whether you choose studio or outdoor or both, you’re always right by your puppy. I’m always watching the puppy for signs of distress and won’t put them in any condition where it’s not safe. I’ll always ask if there’s anything I’m unsure of.
- How many people should be at the session?
- Best case scenario would be to have two people/pet. That way one can be in charge of being right there with the puppy and the other can stand behind me. I’ve done plenty of puppy sessions with just the owner, puppy and myself so it certainly can be done. Also, too many people can be more of a distraction.
- My puppy gets distracted and I’m afraid she’ll be nervous of cars on the road or people. How will it be for my puppy at your place?
- GOOD NEWS! My portrait park is 70 acres. We’re at the end of a dead-end (with the road being almost half a mile away). Busy roads are not a concern here…it’s safe and free of distractions.
- We can’t get our puppy to sit still for us when we try to take pictures with our phone. Should we wait until he settles down and gets used to our home?
- Your puppy should just concentrate on being a puppy. That means he’ll be all over the place and then will just plop down and sleep! I wouldn’t wait on a session as your puppy will change each day.
- Again, I’ve got many tricks up my sleeve and I have extensive experience photographing singles puppies all the way up to large litters. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Do you have any other questions for me about a puppy session? Please reach out and I’m happy to answer any for you!
Enjoy Leo’s gallery below. (Note: the mom wasn’t at all interested in being in any photos, however, I convinced her to be in some where she is in but not “in”. You’ll see below!)
