Is your dog high energy? Shy or anxious? Or maybe not so good with strangers?

Don’t worry! You are not alone. Having one challenging dog at home and the other with high ‘stranger-danger’ anxiety, I get it. This experience and working with many rescue dogs gives me the ability to work well with your dog and still capture beautiful portraits.

For most dogs, listening to commends of sit and stay is a a lot to ask. Even dogs who are well trained and behaved at home or familiar places can have trouble focusing and listening at the studio. This is a new environment filled with so many smells…and then, we ask them to “work” for their treats etc.

With lots of rewards, patience, and repetition, your dog will get what is being asked, and I need just a split second to get that perfect shot and more.

For very shy and timid dogs, I allow them lots of time to explore the studio and take their time to settle in.

When we talk on the phone during your session planning call, I will explain how I work with dogs in the studio and guide you along the way during the session.

Of course! The more, the merrier…crazy fun chaos is welcome at the studio. I only ask that you bring an extra person to help. And please make sure your dogs are very comfortable with whoever you bring.

Yes, absolutely! I had cats, bunnies, Guinea Pigs, and skinny pigs in the studio.

There is a small wall at the studio filled with flower crowns, bow ties, and other fun accessories that you can pick from.

Normally, I love the “naked” dog portraits so even the collars come off. However, if your dog feels more secure and comfortable with his/her collar, we can leave it on. If your dog has anything else, like an outfit, that you love, feel free to bring it along.

I always say that more options is better then being disappointed that you didn’t bring outfits from home.

If grooming is something you do regularly, then yes. My recommendation is to schedule the session for about 1-2 weeks after the groom so your dog’s fur had a bit of time to grow out.

I am also all for the ‘scruffy’ look or for bringing your dog as they are. In this case, the only time I would say to have a little trim is if your dog’s fur gets into his/her eyes or mouth. Let’s make sure we can see those beautiful eyes. And once again, if your groomer tends to “cut shorter to last longer”, please plan ahead.

When you first arrive at the studio, I allow your dog to run free and explore. There is lots to sniff and get familiar with so your dog will be super excited…or shy. This exploring will help them settle in a little and feel comfortable.

During this time, we will talk and look at some of the beautiful product samples I have in the studio.

There is no set amount of time for your dog to explore. Once I see he/she is ready, we will do a short introduction to the big light and flash. The next step is the actual photo shoot itself. I will explain again how you will be having some fun with your dog to get all the perfect portraits of him/her. I am never in a hurry. It’s your dog’s time to shine so we go by his/her pace.

Being located on Main Street in a small and quaint town, there is not much green right by the studio. However, there are some green spaces within a couple minute walks. On your way to the session, depending when direction you are coming from, there is the Canal Park in Walnutport and the Victory Park in Slatington…both within a 5 minute drive from the studio.