SESSION CONSULTATION

This is where we talk about what you are looking for in your final images and discuss your

session. We finalize all the details of our photo session: what to bring, and of course what type of product you are looking for in your final images. This consultation starts with a form so I can learn more about you and your amazing pet as well as figure out what images your are looking for.

This is an important step as each and every session is customized to create art that fits perfectly in your home, lifestyle, and vision. Having an idea on how you would like to display your images will influence how I shoot the session. If you are looking for a single amazing wall art to grace your walls or a beautiful custom photo album to display all your favourite images, I will shoot a bit

differently.

Are you hoping to have a large acrylic print of your dog with the city in the background? Do you and your horse love to explore Alberta trails? Is there a special place that you and your dog like to visit or a favourite activity? Are you looking for a more classic look of your dog in the studio? I have plenty of location suggestions to create a perfect setting for your portraits.

Please don’t worry if you don’t have the answers to these questions, this is what I am here for!   Together we’ll create the perfect experience for you and your pet. 

THE SESSION

Yes, here comes the fun! Time for your photo session. This is strictly stress-free time. We will let your pet lead the way, have fun, and takes breaks as we explore the area. Don’t worry if your dog won’t sit or stay in one spot. I’ll use my experience and animal knowledge to bring out the best in our furry subject. I promise that even if they aren’t listening, I know how to work with them and get the best images! I have all the patience in the world for your pet and don’t mind setting up a shot multiple times to get the right one! I promise that we are creating beautiful images.

YOUR ARTWORK

Your viewing gallery will be ready in 3 to 4 weeks. I’ll let you know all your options and you get to look over your images and make decisions on final artwork. Your files then move into final

production where they are magically transformed into gorgeous custom artwork that you’ll love for a lifetime.

Once your artwork arrives I’ll let you know and we can arrange for you to pick it up. Most items take up to 3 to 4 weeks to arrive, or closer to the holidays can take a little longer. Once you take them home, you’ll love looking at them and being reminded of your special pet and your perfect time together.

HOMEWORK

You will receive an email with a link to a questionnaire that will assist us and make our planning process easier. Please review and complete the form 1 week before your photo session.

If you have any questions at any time, please don’t hesitate to contact me at 

tripdogphotography@gmail.com or 587-447-4455.

RESCHEDULING

Sometimes weather doesn’t cooperate (this is Alberta after all) and it takes a turn for the worst. When it comes to outdoor sessions it can be at mother nature’s mercy. We generally wait until last minute to reschedule an outdoor session as it can clear up very fast (or not be as bad as it looks). Some of my favourite sessions have been in the middle of a light drizzle! I’ll let you know as soon as possible if the weather isn’t playing nice and we will plan for a different day right away.

If your pet is feeling unwell, kindly let me know we need to reschedule as early as possible.

WHAT TO WEAR

The focus of the session is on your pet, but your clothing is important too! It should be true to your style and something that you feel great in.

LAYERS - Layers add interest, no matter what the temperature. Think hats, scarves, belts, jackets, vests, jewelry, ties, and layered shirts. 

TEXTURE/PATTERN - Textures photograph beautifully. While it is often suggested that patterns should be avoided, I feel that they can work great when used in moderation.

COLOR - Don’t feel compelled to stick solely to neutrals. While everyone should be working with one color palette and complimenting colors, feel free to add an extra splash of color.

AVOID - Please be aware that lots of white, black, or really bright colors like hot pink/magenta or a bright green does NOT photograph well. Do not choose hats that create strong shadows on faces (such as baseball caps). Transition glasses can be problematic as they turn into sunglasses.

Think fun, colorful, comfortable, and stylish, a fun party not formal clothing. I am happy to give you feedback to help you style your session. Simply email me some pictures to tripdogphotography@gmail.com or send me some links if you are online shopping.

FOR DOG PARENTS

- Don’t forget to exercise your pup before hand if possible. It’s exciting to be in a new place and this makes it easier to get down to business.

- Bring lots of tasty treats! I normally bring some as well in case you forget. Tiny soft treats work best, think dime-sized (or smaller for the tiny pups). 

- Bring your dog’s favourite toy!!

- Don’t forget your dog’s attire. Big bulky harnesses and head halters can NOT be edited off. Consider either a thin collar or slip lead for me to edit out, or bring your dog’s extra fancy collar and we can leave them on in the final image. If your pup needs a harness or head halter to walk to our photo location, please bring a flat buckle collar to swap out for the final images.

- If your pet has a certain look you like, it is easiest to schedule a groom a few days before their photo session so they are not overwhelmed on the day of their session. Holding still is hard work after all.

FOR HORSE PARENTS

- Please have your horse bathed and groomed prior to our session so we can focus our time   creating your fantastic photos

- If you need to clip your horse’s whiskers, please do so a day or two prior to our session so your session day goes smoothly and is stress free.

- Don’t forget to clean your halter or bridle. A classic leather looks stunning in photos and is timeless.

- If your horse has a favourite treat, don’t forget to bring this to our session, cut into small    manageable pieces is perfect!

- When planning your outfit, plan for closed-toed shoes for safety reasons.

FOR KITTY PARENTS

- Contact me so we can discuss exactly how brave/shy your cat is. I am a cat lover and fully     understand working with our frisky felines.... and doing things on their time line. 

- Don’t forget to put your cat’s food away a few hours before their session so that they are a little hungry and more motivated by some yummy treats.

- For in-home sessions, please close off all rooms where your cat can hide if they decide they aren’t impressed with a visitor in their space.

- Bring lots of fun toys (feathers, strings, or their favourite crinkle ball) as well as catnip. Try to avoid loose catnip flakes until the end of the session so they don’t end up in your kitty’s fur.

THE KEY TO A GREAT SESSION

The most important thing to remember is to relax and enjoy your session. Your pet’s only job is to be themselves. Whether they are a little shy or exuberant and outgoing, not to worry, patience and experience is key. If we have them sitting and they decide to stand, that’s okay! Just ignore it. If I need your pet to be in a certain position, I’ll let you know and we can take our time and reset them. The most important thing is to remain relaxed and calm. Don’t get stressed out. So long as your pet is having fun and a positive experience we will get great images!

FAQ'S

My dog can’t be off leash, is that okay?

Yes! Most of the dogs I photograph remain on leash their entire session. Your pet’s safety is     paramount! Even action shots can be accomplished with an extra long line to keep your pet safe and secure. 

Can I bring extra dogs or humans to my session?

Sessions are only for pets that live in the same household. Please only bring animals that we have discussed ahead of time. Extra humans are great if they are here to help out, another set of hands to wrangle our furry friends can make the session go smoother.

Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.