FAQ
What if my pet isn’t trained to sit or stay?
Rest assured, 99% of the animals I work with are not trained or are very minimally trained. It is helpful if an animal has training but not required for your photoshoot. This is especially true for puppies and kittens, which I adore photographing!
I’m prepared to handle the temperament, and personality of every kind of pet you can imagine. No matter your furbaby's temperament, I will give them the extra care and attention they require to make sure they are comfortable and feel safe with positive reinforcement techniques.
And guess what? Some of the BEST images are when they let loose and run free! There is room for everyone here!
Before
​​My pet can’t go off leash. What are my options?
Not a problem! All animals are kept on leash during sessions unless they are in a safe enclosed area. I can even use a special long leash to capture action shots!
In fact, most of my images are taken of animals with leashes on and retouched to remove leashes in post-production! The safety of my clients is my number one priority during each session.
After
What if my pet is nervous or shy?
​That's okay!
I have worked with literally every kind of pet you can think of. I have received animal handling training, and do weekly volunteer shifts at local rescues and shelters. I often work with animals that have been abused or neglected, and are fearful, physically impaired, or unsocialized. I am happy to give any animal more time, patience, and encouragement during their photoshoot.
If an animal is too shy to do a regular shoot, using a zoom lens from a comfortable distance in a familiar location will give them the space they need to relax.
That being said, if your pet is still exhibiting highly anxious behavior, I won't put them through additional stress and will discontinue the session, giving you a full refund. Although, I have never had to discontinue a session for an anxious pet.
Can any photographer do pet photography?
In short-not really.
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While many photographers are talented, pet photography requires a very specific skill set. It’s not just about having a good camera or being a great photographer—it’s about understanding animal behavior (and many different kinds at that), having quick reflexes, reading subtle cues, staying calm under pressure, and creating a safe, fun environment for both pets and their people.
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Without extensive experience and education working with animals, a portrait photographer may struggle when a pet is anxious, overly excited, or simply not cooperating. That stress trickles down to you, and ultimately, the images will suffer.
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As a dedicated pet photographer, I know how to navigate those moments with patience and skill—so your session stays positive and playful, and you get the incredible images and artwork you’re dreaming of. You can count on me to get the job done, and enjoy yourself in the process.
Do you offer studio sessions?
The majority of the work I do is on location somewhere in the beautiful land of Colorado. I do occasionally do events or special studio sessions at various locations and will announce these special events via email.
Will my pet do okay with flash?
​Most pets don’t react negatively to flash, especially when they are being rewarded with treats or attention. I always do test flashes on low intensity before committing to it in a shoot.
If your pet does react, we can use a continuous light source or shoot with natural daylight.
Additionally, I only use flash with studio or indoor photography and use natural lighting for all my outdoor sessions (unless I want to do something artistically with flash outdoors).
Do you offer home sessions?
Yes, although my bread and butter is on-location sessions in the beautiful, Colorado wilderness, I understand that many pets cannot come to these places. I offer home sessions for pets like these, including cats, critters, and sick pets.
That being said, I do need to come to your home beforehand to develop a customized plan for our session.
Whether using natural light or studio lighting indoors, I bring creativity and meticulous planning to ensure we create artwork that will beautifully adorn your walls.​
My pet is dying, can I book a session right away?
I’m so deeply sorry to hear about your precious furbaby. Legacy sessions are the most heartbreaking and the most beautiful. I will make every effort to adjust my schedule to fit you in as soon as possible. Please make sure to send me a message or call me directly so I am aware of the situation. ​
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I offer a variety of legacy products such as Story Boxes, Custom Albums, Framed Artwork, and Tabletop Keepsakes, many of which can be customized with your pet's name and custom covers with hand-drawn designs. It is my goal to create something truly exceptional to honor the memory of your beloved companion.
How much should I budget to work with you?
Your investment depends on the package you choose.
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My session packages range from $595 to $995 and include a set number of images along with an artwork credit. Additional artwork and images can be purchased separately.
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The minimum investment is $595. On occasion, I offer limited-edition mini sessions around $250, which include a few images — usually available during the holidays.
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I also offer 3- to 6-month interest-free payment plans, allowing you to comfortably spread out your investment.
Check out my Pricing & Packages here to find the perfect fit for you and your pet.
Do I get digital copies of the images?
When you purchase a session package it includes a set number of images and an artwork credit. Additionally, all art, albums, and product packages include all the corresponding digital images. Example: a 40 image album includes the matching 40 digital images.
A Custom Photo Album or Story Box is the best value to get more digital images if that is your goal.
Extra digital images can be purchased separately for $75 each or in high value bundles.
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What time of day will the session be?
I always shoot during golden hour, during the hour of sunrise or sunset of the season.
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Lighting is one of the most important elements to outstanding photography.
Where will my session take place?
It's important to me to provide you with locations that are safe, low stress, and beautiful for you and your pet to enjoy.
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My Heart Trail of Sessions take place in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Bellvue, featuring a variety of natural settings such as gardens, trails, rivers, parks, and foothill canyons. Locations are selected to match your preferences and the animal's needs.
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My Into the Wild Sessions take place in those locations as well as epic spots including Nederland, Boulder, and Estes.
Additionally, I will be offering sessions in Aspen, Telluride, and Crested Butte next summer and fall. Sessions over 2.5 hours from Fort Collins include an additional travel fee.
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Upon booking, I will provide a curated list of locations along with actual session images to look through.
Can I have multiple pets in my session?
Absolutely!
The Heart Trail session includes up to 3 pets, and my Into the Wild Session includes up to 4. Additional pets are $75 each.
Please inquire for more than 5 pets in one session.
Can my family be in the pictures?
Of course! I adore capturing families with their pets! Please note that I am a pet photographer and not a family photographer, so your pets will still be the center of the show!
