It’s so important for humans to prepare for a portrait session and even more so for your pet. We like to do a pre session consultation at our studio before a portrait session to discuss the style of the portrait, wardrobe, what type of end product is desired etc. With people we can do this over the phone if we have to. Same thing for pet owners but it is so beneficial for the pet owner and pet to visit the studio before hand. Why is this? Well even if we were doing a portrait outside at a location of your choice it’s important to go where your pet feels comfortable and relaxed. If they’ve been some place before their stress level drops quite a bit as they smell familiar things.
Same with the studio. If your pet comes to the studio, meets the photographer and smells all the various smells at the studio before the session then they can relax a bit when they come back for a portrait session. Sometimes it’s just not possible to come in advance and we understand that—life gets in the way or the distance is just too great to come more than once. When that is the case it’s important to allow extra time for the session so your pet can roam around the studio and get used to it. That’;s why we often will sit and talk to you and let your pet roam for awhile before trying to photograph it. This is especially important with cat portraits.
This German Shepherd is a case in point. He came in a little over three years ago for a session and it was his first time in studio and he was a little nervous. This time around (a few weeks ago) he was far more comfortable walking into the studio and having a portrait made—he had been here before and felt very comfortable here.
Bring treats and or toys for your pet (especially dogs) and familiar blankets and treats for cats. Make sure they’ve had plenty of time to do their relieve themselves before arriving. Also you may want to consider being in the portrait with your pet, if so make sure that you wear clothing that is compatible with your pets colors—this goes a long way towards creating a harmonious portrait.
Thinking of having a classic portrait of your pet created? Give us a call @719.475.0160 and we’ll schedule a ore-session consultation for you and your pet.