What do I need to bring?

There is a checklist below, please make sure you read through it and turn up prepared, especially regarding water and a bowl for your dog.

Can I bring someone with me?

Absolutely, another pair of hands is really useful and there are always things that they can help with.  If it is a partner then I would encourage them to dress as if they are also going to be in the photo's just in case.  You'll regret it if they are there and there are no group photo's to show.

Why Do I Need To Brig Someone If My Dogs Are Controllable Off Lead And Highly Trained?

Yes, you do.  I will generally require one handler per dog.  It has nothing to do with how well behaved they are, it's a case of not having the other dogs running around when I am working with maybe just one of them, as it is distracting for the dog in question and myself.  If I am also working with you and your dog, we need to know that the other dogs are safe.  Having extra people there to give them water, keep an eye on them, help if other dogs approach etc.  I've seen incredibly well behaved dogs run off after something they see and getting them back almost ended the photoshoot for the client.  It also stops the ones not being photographed from getting bored or feeling like they are missing out.  It's all about the dogs

Do I need to walk my dog before the shoot?

Honestly no, I am used to dogs that are full of energy and won't sit still, but if they are a little hyped there is no problem in letting them blow off a bit of steam before we start and it gives me time to find out more about your dog, take some test shots and see what kind of things will be possible.  It's better than having a dog turn up tired because they have been out on a long walk or running around with other dogs all day.

I have a reactive dog with regard to other dogs and it doesn't like people especially men, can I still book a photoshoot?

Yes, it's absolutely no problem at all.  Let me know in advance and we can discuss a photoshoot somewhere quiet, away from people and other animals in a stress free environment - either somewhere new to them so everything is interesting and distracting, or somewhere they feel comfortable and at home.  There are also dog parks and areas that you can book for private hire that we can discuss, so that we know your dog will be safe.  I am always a distance away from your dog, hardly ever closer than 4 or 5 metres most of the time and I will just work around what your dog is happy doing.  I cannot do anything about being a man, but keeping a distance is often enough.  I have also had to sit and bribe with treats and just spend time sitting with them for a while until they feel comfortable.  There's no rush so we just take out time until we see what will work. 

If it doesn't work out and we don't get any images that you like, then I offer my guarantee promise and you can walk away knowing we tried our best and I will refund your booking fee.  This has never happened because I will do everything I possibly can to get you the best image you have ever seen of your dog, no matter what it takes.

What if I cannot let my dog off of the lead or I use a longline, is this going to be a problem?

No problem at all, it is still possible to get amazing images with dogs on a lead either through clever use of angles or in software during the editing process.  Just let me know hen we discuss the booking and if you have a long line then I'll suggest bringing it along.  If not, then I have one we could use.

What is expected of my dog and what happens if they play up a bit?

Honestly,  i'm a little partial to a dog with a naughty or cheeky personality.  During the shoot you are in charge and in control of your dog at all times.  I will follow your advice on their safety, health and how tired they get  and there is never any pressure from me to 'get the shot' as the dogs' welfare is my primary concern at all times.  During the photoshoot we'll allow the dog to play, run, sit down and rest.  I don't often pose dogs as I prefer to let them just be themselves, but on occasion there are some basic poses we can try or I might ask for them to lie down/sit in front of trees or in the heather/long grass.  But if they won't or are not happy to do so then that's ok.  

Still worried about how your dog might behave?  I love to work with all dogs and well behaved and trained animals are always welcome, but if you do have a dog or horse that is Rescued, Reactive, Disabled, Underlying Health Issues, Anxiety or Separation Issues, Needs To Remain On The Lead, Lacking in Confidence, Would Not Be Able To Undertake An Indoor Studio or Outdoor Enclosed Photoshoot then they are the special ones. They also deserve to have amazing images taken of them and to look their very best in the photo's you have of them.

Do I need any special treats?

I suggest you bring normal treats that you would normally dish out on a walk, but it's also good to have something special with you as well.  A real treat like cheese or sausage bits can help them to keep focus if they are easily distracted.  Whilst having these with you, I try not to encourage their use until later on in the shoot as once they know you've go them, my job job becomes just a little more difficult.  I don't carry treats as I have been doggy-mugged on many ocassions.

Shall I bring toys?

If you dog enjoys playing with toys and has favourite ball then yes , bring it along but we'll treat it in the same way as the treats and hide it for as long as we need to.

Can I suggest things to try?

I will always ask whether there are any types of shots you would like to try as this is your time to have fun as well.

Will I be in the photographs?

Some clients are more happy at the suggestion of being photographed than others which I totally understand.  All I ask is that we try some things, you trust that I am not there to make you look uncomfortable and if you are really not happy then you tell me.  Thats all fine, It's just that this is a fantastic opportunity for you to have some images of yourself with your dog

What if the weather looks bad?

Generally I only cancel shoots if it is going to be raining.  If I know it is definitely going to be wet all day then it is best to cancel, but sometimes with showers you can get amazing skies and something a little different.  I am always happy to turn up and if the weather doesn't happen for us, then we re-schedule.  This is a discussion we will have a couple of days before when I contact you.

What if I don't like the images I am presented with?

If you are not happy with any of the images presented to you or the shoot does not go to plan then I will happily re-arrange, re-schedule the shoot or refund the booking fee.