Welcome to my session guide! This page is here to give you more information and help you prepare for your session.
Whether you've already booked a session or just interested in the process, I highly recommend giving this guide a quick read!
Your session lasts about 1-1.5hrs and most of that time is just letting your dog be a dog! We'll start slow with some sniffing, exploring, and getting to know me.
Once they're comfortable, we'll walk through a variety of candid and posed shots. I'll guide you and your pup ever step of the way. If your dog has the zoomies or decides not to listen, no worries! I'm used to wiggly and distracted dogs.
Within 3 weeks, you'll get an online proofing gallery to order prints and/or digital images
What to Expect
Prepping Your Dog
Tire them out (just a little). If you're dog is energetic, I recommend taking your dog for a walk before the session to get some energy out. Calm dogs are easier to photograph, but we still want a little energy!
Groom a few days before. Depending on your breed, it's a great idea to get your pup cleaned up and ready to model.
Make sure they're a little hungry! Treats are a great way to help pose your dog throughout the session. If they come a little hungry, this helps them stay treat-motivated!
What to Bring
Treats
Bring your pup's absolute favorite treats! The more treat-motivated they are, the faster and easier our session will be.
Favorite Toy
Squeakers work great for getting a dog's attention. I'll have a squeaker toy with me but if they have a favorite, I recommend bringing it.
Leash and Collar
Most of my sessions take place fully on-leash. Please bring a leash and collar for your pup. Leash and collar removal is included in every session! Please note that harnesses will NOT be removed from photos.
What to Wear
Are you planning on getting in a couple photos with your pup? If so, this section is for you.
Choose solid colors in muted, earthy tones such as tan, olive, rust, blue, or gray.
Contrast with your dog's coat. Wear lighter colors with a dark dog and darker tones with a light one so you don't blend together.
Avoid logos and busy patterns. These are distracting and pull attention away from your pup!
Choosing a Location
I've photographed pups at many locations across Maine and New Hampshire. Here are some of my favorites! Keep in mind that if you don't see a location you like or have something else in mind, I'm happy to do a session at a location of your choosing.
Please note that I'm happy to travel just about anywhere in New England but any location over an hour drive from Augusta, Maine may be subject to travel fees.
Vaughan Woods
Hallowell, ME
An incredible location that offers diverse scenery including woods, fields, rocks, and waterfalls. Vaughan Woods offers a little bit of everything and is my most popular location.
Wolfe's Neck State Park
Freeport, ME
A great location if you're looking for that classic Maine coastal vibe. This location offers fields, a trail system through the woods, and coastal rocks.
Winslow Park
Freeport, ME
Winslow Park features a scenic 1 mile loop through woods, a field, and comes out to a point overlooking the ocean.
Benson Park
Hudson, NH
My most popular New Hampshire location. This park has great scenery and a trail system focused around a pond. There's a good mix of fields, trails, bushes, and bridges.
FAQs
What if my dog won't sit still?
That's okay! A lot of the photos you see on my website are of dogs that don't sit still. If your dog won't stop moving, I typically recommend that we keep it on a leash.
Can I keep my dog on leash?
Yes! Most photos are taken on-leash and actually makes it easier to pose your pup. I recommend keeping the leash on for most of your session. I remove the leash when editing so you'd never know it was there!
How long are your sessions?
Sessions typically take anywhere from 1-1.5 hours. The exact time can vary depending on the location and temperament of your pup!
How long does it take to receive my photos?
The edited proofing gallery is available for viewing within three weeks of the session. At that time, all print and digital orders can be placed.
Can I Be in the Photos Too?
Of course! Your dog will always be the star of the show but I encourage you to hop in a couple photos.
