Your Dog Photo Shoot - What To Expect and FAQs

 
This might well be your first dog photo shoot so I hope the following guide proves helpful. I also refer you to the Terms and Conditions page of the website here: https://www.shaunbarrphotography.co.uk/dog-photo-shoot-terms-and-conditions
 
How do I book the photo shoot?
 
When you have a date in mind, just drop me an email or call 07511 733227 to check my availability. Once we’ve fixed a date we’ll arrange a discussion over the phone to plan the shoot. 
 
How does the photo shoot work?
 
Through a pre-shoot phone call we’ll establish any particular needs your dog has, as well as discuss any kind of shots that you might like to include, and then tailor the session accordingly. We’ll also discuss a location for the shoot, whether it’s woodland, beach, or fells. You may have your own place in mind, otherwise I can offer suggestions that are convenient for both of us. 

My dog photo shoots are relaxed and informal and my priority is that your dog finds the whole thing as much fun as possible. So with the help of their favourite toys or their best treats (often both) and lots of praise they’ll hopefully enjoy the session just as much as you. 
 
 
What happens during the shoot?
 
At the start of the shoot I’ll spend some time getting to know your dog to help them feel comfortable around me and the camera. After that, think of it as a dog walk and activity session with photography alongside it!
 
Creating candid, natural shots is all about letting the dog play and do what they enjoy doing. Of course we’ll also stop to take some posed shots too. Many clients ask for photographs with their dogs and I’m only too happy to capture you together. 
 
What if my dog isn’t very good at sitting, lying down or keeping still?
 
Dogs come in as many temperaments as they do shapes and sizes and the session will always revolve around the needs and abilities of your dog but even the most challenging of dogs can be photographed by adapting things according to their characters and by finding the right motivation. We’ll work towards that throughout the shoot. 
 
What do I need to bring to the photo shoot?
 
Bring their favourite toy or ball, high-value treats (I will bring some of these too) and poop bags. 
 
Lead or Harness?
 
Where a dog needs a harness for their own safety and comfort (as well as yours) then please continue to use it. But if you are able to switch to a lead I should be able to edit the lead out on many images when editing. I’m unable to remove the harness in post-production so it would have to remain in the image. That’s not a problem and I’ve taken many photographs with dogs happily wearing their harnesses!
 
Can I my dog be off-lead? 
 
Photographing a dog off lead is naturally the ideal situation, provided we both feel it’s safe to do so. This will be dependent on the location, your own dog’s behaviour and your own control of the dog through recall. 
 
Do I need to groom my dog?
 
If your dog is regularly groomed and trimmed it’s worth doing this a week or two before the shoot so the fur has a chance to settle down. In particular, capturing the eyes in the photographs is obviously important so it’s very useful if fur isn’t obstructing their view. If you’re able to give the dog a bath a day or so before the session that will help ensure your pooch’s coat is looking at its best. 
 
What if there’s bad weather on the day?
 
I will keep a close eye on the weather forecast and if it’s poor a day or so before the shoot I may contact you to re-schedule. 
 
What should I wear for the shoot?

Sensible clothing for the mix of outdoor weather we might experience and sturdy shoes for walking on potentially slippery or uneven ground. 
 
What happens after the shoot?
 
After the session I will carefully edit the images. This is a really important part of the process and takes much longer than you might expect – much longer than the session itself. But on completion you will be able to view first-class images files waiting to be turned into stunning  fine art prints or wall art such as canvases. I will usually contact you 7-14 days later to provide you access to your online viewing gallery.

What do I receive?

From your online viewing gallery you’ll be able to choose your complimentary signed and mounted fine art print, as well as choose 3 low-res images to share on social media (not suitable for printing).  
 
You will also have the opportunity to choose and purchase hi-res digital images for printing, order fine art prints, canvases and other wall art in a range of sizes. I work with a professional print house who produce outstanding quality prints and other artwork and I’m able to source prints from them at very competitive prices. You will receive £25 credit towards any purchases over £120.
 
 
How many images will be available?
 
I generally set neither a minimum or maximum number of images - my focus is on quality rather than quantity. However, a 90-minute shoot typically delivers 10-20 images for your selection. 
 
I will work hard to provide you with not only great images but lasting memories of your four-legged friend that you can treasure for a lifetime.
 
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to drop me a line via email: info@shaunbarr.co.uk or call: 07511 733227.