Animals vary as much as humans in their behavior, their fears, their likes, their dislikes and their personalities. You have your pet a lifetime, I only have them for an hour or so. To get the best portrait of your pet, I need to learn about him or her in a short period of time to be able to bring out that certain look, that priceless cock of the head or the raise of a paw. You can help me to do that!

Questions I will have:

1) What species is your pet?
2) What breed?
3) What color?
4) What sex?
5) What does your pet love to do the most? (ride in the car, lay in the sunlight, etc.)
6) What are your pet's most favorite treats, toys, activities?
7) What commands or terms does your pet know?
8) What traits describe your pet? (playful, loving, laid back, strong, hyper, sassy, aggressive, etc.)
9) What are you looking for in a portrait of your pet? (examples: personality, beauty, playfulness)
10) What color background do you prefer?
11) What is the end use of the portrait? (Framed portrait, photo novelties, web site use, etc.)

A few tips:

Please, please, please:

1) Never expect your animal to do the impossible. You are responsible for knowing what your pet is capable or incapable of doing. If he is terrified of strangers, doesn't know basic commands or has a medical problem that will not allow him or her to sit up, please don't expect a great photo of him sitting up. Use good judgment, for the sake of your pet. This is not to say that we cannot get a great portrait of your pet if he has these problems. We can get a great shot of him or her doing what he does naturally as normal behavior. Laying, snuggling.. hiking his leg on the photographer.. but if he won't sit up at home, he probably won't sit up here either.

2) Groom your baby! Yes, eye goobers do show up on film and are pretty gross. Bring whatever grooming tools you use at home with you for touch ups, too!

3) Kitties.. patience is the key here. They are just more sensitive to life in general. The smells of other animals, the car ride, a change in routine,etc. may get them plenty worked up if they are not accustom to such things. I highly recommend rescue remedy, for any situation that could be stressful for your pet. (It's good for us humans, too!) Massage is a wonderful technique to reduce stress as well. And it's fun for all! It's nice if you can bring a carrier that your cat is accustom to and that is large enough for a litter pan.

4) Expect that your pet may want to take short breaks during the shoot. A drink of water, a potty break, a walk, a cuddle. It's a good idea to bring water from home, as a sudden change could cause stomach upset. (we have well water)

5) Please do not get upset with your animal during the photo shoot. It does not do one bit of good. Patience is the key, for you, for me! On another note, do not be afraid to use a stern command or (proper) discipline. We encourage pack order around here.

6) Treats and toys are great (sometimes). Bring your favorites!

7) If your animal is fearful or extremely hyper, consider having yourself included in the portrait, holding your pet.

8) It is best not to schedule your session within a few hours either way of meal time. If your pet is too hungry or too full, getting, and keeping, their attention can be difficult.

8) Plan to work! I'll need your help to get the greatest image we can!