How to prepare for your dog photography session

Session Planning

2 May

A sympathetic snuggle or wet kiss on a bad day. A happy face at the door. A splash of color and fur in the grass. For many of us, dogs are more than just pets; they are family members; to some they are even their kids. They are an integral part of our everyday lives, depending on us for care and shelter, and in return offering unconditional love. Here we will help you prepare for your session with Crystal Coast Dog including information on what to expect, getting ready and much more!

The Session Consultation

If you haven’t already, it’s time to schedule our session consultation. This is where the magic happens, where we customize your entire experience. We will finalize all of the details of the session from where we are shooting, to meeting times, and discuss which products you are most interested in creating. This consultation is often held over the phone, Zoom, or it can also be held in-person at your home or a somewhere local (I love Carolina Home and Garden), if you prefer.

This is a critical step as each and every session is customized to create art that fits perfectly into your home and lifestyle. You do not need to make final purchasing decisions at this meeting, but having an idea on how you might like to display your images will influence how I shoot the session. For instance, if you are considering hanging artwork on a skinnier wall its helpful to know so that I can create some images in a portrait orientation.

Please do not worry if you don’t know what you want to do with your images yet - that is what I am here for! We will work together to create the perfect custom experience for you.

The Session

We will let your furry family lead the way and will take plenty of breaks as we explore the area. Don't be concerned if your dog doesn’t want to sit or if he is more interested in all of the exciting sights around us. promise that even if it feels like they aren’t listening or we have to set up the shot numerous times, it’s fine. It’s expected and I promise that we are creating incredible images!

The Viewing & Ordering Appointment

We will pick a date to meet again after our session (this can also be in-person or on Zoom) where we will go over all of the images, choose your favorites, eat chocolate, and finalize your order together. Your files then move into production where they are magically transformed into gorgeous custom artwork that you will love for a lifetime. Although it might appear counter-intuitive to begin with the end in mind, envisioning how you’d like to appreciate your images following your session empowers you to enter your reveal and ordering appointment with certainty in your investment and product decisions.

Once that magical artwork arrives, I will let you know and arrange pick up or delivery. Most items take up to 6 weeks to arrive, but a few of the very special items may take up to 8 weeks. I promise that the wait will be worth it!