Frequently asked questions
What if I just want the digital files?
While the digital files are great for backing up and viewing your images online, they’re not a finished product.In my experience, when the only thing that’s taken home from a session is a disk of files, you’re only getting a small piece of the Paws + Tails Pet Photography experience.
Most the time, files end up sitting in a drawer for years or get looked at on a computer from time to time, or they may get made into cheap prints that fade within a couple years...or worse, the images on the cd or drive are lost when the electronics they are stored on eventually crash.
I’d be doing you a disservice to hand off the files and leave you to figure out what to do with them.The goal of a session with Paws + Tails Pet Photography is not only the creation of beautiful images but the tactile, visual enjoyment of those images.
My archival-quality Candian crafted products will have accurate color, be printed on the highest quality materials, and are meant to be enjoyed for a lifetime.Please note that you do, however, receive matching Social Media Files with every piece of artwork you order.
My dog doesn't have much time left. Is there a special session?
I’m so sorry. Our pet’s lives are tragically short. Celebration of Life Sessions is available for those pets that are at the end of their time with us. They are regular on-location sessions, but I make every effort to adjust my schedule to squeeze you in as soon as possible. and during your session, we take all the time necessary to capture you and your dog, and the special bond you share together.
Why should I invest in custom pet photography? It's so expensive!
There are several reasons to go the custom route, and ultimately it is one that is a personal choice. However, I think of it this way: Pets are our cherished family members who are sadly only with us for a much shorter time than we would like.
Custom photography provides a personalized experience and gives you one of a kind keepsakes of special moments that will last long after your fur-kid crosses the rainbow bridge.
When you book a session with me, you know you’re getting high-quality, creative, and fun memories created by a true professional who specializes in animal photography. With over 8 years of experience, lots of patience, and very calm energy, I’m able to connect with your pets and capture their spirit and personalities in my own unique way. I’ve worked with all different types of personalities and abilities and create beautiful moments every time.
I’m not a wedding or family photographer who occasionally includes pets; I am a Pet Photographer.
Do you photograph year round?
Yes! Spring, Summer, Fall + Winter each provide unique backgrounds that could never be duplicated. Weather your pet prefers adventuring in the snow, jumping in the leaves, stopping to smell the flowers or strolling along a sun basked beach – we will capture the moments that matter to you of you and your pet year-round.
What if it rains?
We all know how unpredictable the weather can be living in our beautiful rain forest country! My style of work is hugely dependent on good light and dry conditions. Due to that, if the weather is unfavorable on the day of your session, then we will work on rescheduling your session to another day that suits you and that the weather is more favorable.
What if I need to cancel?
I get it, sometimes life just gets in the way, and emergencies happen. I always try to be accommodating and am willing to reschedule due to personal emergencies up to 2 times. After that, your reservation retainer will be void, and we will have to start the process over again, including a new reservation retainer.
My dog is a little (insert adjective here; hyper, shy, nervous) so he will never cooperate for a session.
The safety of my clients is the number one priority during any session, and, in my opinion, the only dogs that should come off-leash are the ones that their owners are 110% confident in their ability to recall their pet in that particular situation. In certain instances like urban shooting, we keep even the most well-behaved dogs on their leash for safety.
We can also use a long line during your session to capture some action shots while still ensuring they are safe and sound.
All leashes will be magically removed in Photoshop from any ordered image at no additional charge. By the way, can I let you in on a little secret? The majority of dogs I photograph are actually on a lead!
Approximately 98.9% of the pups that grace these pages are your everyday companions. They may or may not listen to sit or stay, and that is totally normal! I’ve got a bag of tricks up my sleeve to get great images while working with dogs on a lead.
I understand that dogs have their quirks, and there are often many factors contributing to their behavior and level of training. Rest assured, I’ve worked with all kinds of dogs at all levels of obedience. The number one thing we can do to make things easier for ourselves is to choose a location with as few distractions as possible.
Additionally, during the session, I use tons of tricks and techniques (and a bucketload of patience) to overcome any training issues your dog might have so we can still capture a range of expressions and moments.
Please don’t let your dog’s behavior hold you back from booking a session. Relax, you’re in my capable and super experienced hands!
Do you only photograph dogs?
No! I love fur-kids of all shapes, sizes, breeds, and colors! From fluffy felines to elegant equines as well as other small animals from time to time as well. And of course, dogs too!
When and how should I book?
As soon as you have decided to go ahead with your booking, get in touch. I can take bookings up to six months in advance (and sometimes my waitlist can take that long so, be sure to contact me as early as you can!). Sessions are often booked 4-6 weeks in advance, except for Celebration of Life Sessions, which are often squeezed in last minute due to the nature of the sessions.
How much are your 8x10's
I do carry regular glossy prints in an 8x10. They are considered a gift or desk print due to their size. They also only come in a set of 5 either mounted on styrene or just as is. They additionally come wrapped in a beautiful boutique folder and a wood photo block to display them on. They are $300.
How long will it take for my photos to be ready?
Usually after your session is complete it takes 2-3 weeks for me to finish working with them in my digital darkroom. Once they're completed we will set up your Reveal Session! Or if it's easier, we can plan out your Reveal Session during your Meet + Treat Session as well.
