So you've been following dog, pet and equine photographers on Instagram or Facebook for a while now (hopefully I'm one of them) and you're starting to think about having portraits made of your own pup (or cat, or horse) but don't know where to start - or perhaps are a bit intimidated - well you don't need to be. Professional photography is not, and should not, be an intimidating experience. If you've felt that way in the past, they were doing it wrong!
I love my job; I get to meet a vast array of animals that are dearly loved by their people and create beautiful images that will be cherished for a lifetime. That process starts with you simply reaching out to me via one of a number of channels; website contact page, phone call, Facebook or Instagram direct messaging and sharing who we'll be photographing and how I can contact you.
(click on any image to view full screen)
You Can Easily Contact Me Via The Main Menu on The Website
The Bottom Right of Each Web Page Has a Convenient Link to the Contact Form and Phone Number
The Contact Form Asks For a Bit of Info to Get the Conversation Started
Instagram and Facebook are Two Other Ways to Easily Connect
Now That You've Taken the First Step
Now that you've taken the first step and reached out, I start things off with an introductory email outlining how my process works, after which I'll call you to connect in person once you've had a chance to review the information. This is a time to discuss who we'll be photographing, understand if they have any special needs that might affect our choice of location, the timing of the sessions (for example, is it a Silver Session for an ailing pet and needs to happen sooner rather than later), location options and if you've given any thought as to how you plan on enjoying your images.
I want to hear all about your pet. What you love about them most. What their nicknames are. The silly things they do that crack you up and what you want to make sure we capture in the session so you'll never forget.
Many people have a clear idea of wall art, or an album, and others don't know - both are perfectly fine. Our conversations will help you through all that so you're ensured of coming away from your session with exactly what you want.
A number of factors go into selecting a location (and I have a long list of terrific spots in and around the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex ranging from country to urban and lots in between). Do you plan to hang portraits on the wall? If so, what is your home's decor and color palette? Is your pet old and not very mobile, perhaps we should photograph them at your home. Do you have a reactive dog and we need to avoid other dogs at all costs? Not a problem, I've got a list of locations where we can pull that off. Selecting the right location where you, and your pet, can be comfortable goes a long way in the ultimate success of a portrait session.
At this point things start taking shape and we move on the to the next step which is me sharing specific locations along with examples of previous sessions held there and you completing a quick client information form which helps fill in the blanks of any unanswered questions from our initial conversation.
So Many Location Choices Around the Dallas - Fort Worth Metroplex
Let's Use Your Favorite Location
I'm always open to new locations if you have something in mind, that's how I've found some of my favorite places. I'll scout a new location in advance of your session to become familiar with the landscape, the path of the sun and look for "must do" spots for images so that on the day of your photo shoot, I've got a plan for how to organize the image flow.
Scheduling Your Pet Photo Session
After swapping location and client info, we connect on the phone once more to settle on a location, date and time. It's right about now that some folks can start to get nervous about what to wear, how to fix their hair, makeup, etc. Not to worry, I've got you covered. I'll provide guidance on what colors look best on camera, which styles flatter most and how to accessorize. I've had many clients text me photographs of various outfits for my opinion and they've always been happy with the results when considering my recommendations.
Don't forget the dog! If you have a sentimental collar for your dog, by all means have them wear it. If you don't, and don't love their "every day" collar for portraits, I have classic brown latigo leather collars and leashes that you can borrow for the session.
Payment of your session fee holds your place on my calendar and I'll reconfirm a day or two before the scheduled date. If it's an outdoor session, we'll review the forecast to determine if we're a go, or may need to reschedule. I'll remind you of what you need to bring to keep everyone comfortable, hydrated and looking fresh (I usually have a back up for all of these things as well).
In next week's blog, I'll write about the session itself so you'll know what to expect, but know this - expect fun!
8 Comments
Aug 28, 2021, 9:23:13 PM
Nancy - thinking about your decor when your choosing a location is so important.
Aug 18, 2021, 11:35:26 PM
Elaine - I love the precise way you show your clients how to connect with you. Great info! I also like that you offer collars and leashes for the session, if needed.
Aug 12, 2021, 8:18:14 AM
Jo - Wow so many amazing resources in your post Tracy. I love how you've used screenshots to explain the process and how to find things. Also love your sample images and the clothing suggestions... I love both but fit more in the casual look. I'd love to offer my prospective clients something similar... time to get a Pinterest board created!
Aug 11, 2021, 7:17:47 PM
Linda Perdue - I love your style of writing - so easy and understandable - thanks for sharing and having a list of locations is definitely a great idea.
Aug 9, 2021, 7:17:40 PM
Jessica - I love all the visuals! It's so much clearer than just reading text upon text.
Aug 8, 2021, 3:39:37 PM
Terri Jankelow - I love those outfit ideas! Great info for people looking for a dog photo session
Aug 8, 2021, 1:56:47 PM
Darlene Woodward - Great post, Tracy! Love the detailed images on where to find things on your website. Great variety of images shared in choosing a location, and I love the clothing pictures!
Aug 6, 2021, 10:37:21 AM
Angela Schneider - I love how much care you put into choosing locations and helping your clients be dressed properly for their dog photography sessions.