Frequently Asked Pet Photography Questions

• My dog can’t be trusted off leash, can we still do an outdoor photo session?

  • Yes! Unless we are in a secure location, dogs will be kept on a leash for their safety, and the leash will be Photoshopped out afterwords.

• I have [insert number of dogs here], can you photograph them all?

  • The more the merrier! All sessions include up to two pets from the same household. Additional pets may be added to your session for $30/each.

• My dog is unwell, and their remaining time with us is limited. Can we get in right away?

  • I keep availability in my calendar every week for End of Life sessions. I know how stressful and emotional this time can be, so please let me know about your situation when booking, and I will do my best to get you in for my earliest possible opening.

• My dog doesn’t know any commands. Is that a problem?

  • While a good “sit” is always a nice foundation, we can work with whatever your puppy wants to give us. In my free time I volunteer my skills by photographing adoptable shelter/rescue dogs, so I have a lot of experience working with dogs of all different ages, personalities, energy levels, and training.

• My dog is blind/deaf/mobility limited. Can we still do photos?

  • Of course! I have experience with all types of pets with differing abilities. We can absolutely get wonderful images of your faithful friend, regardless of any impairments.

• My dog has medical restrictions so he can’t have treats during the session. Will you still be able to get his attention without food?

  • Yes! My own personal dog is diabetic, meaning treats are a no-go for him. So, I am very familiar with this situation. I have lots of great tricks and firsthand experience for getting their attention without using food.

• My dog is shy. Can we still do photos?

  • Absolutely! I’ve never met a pup that I couldn’t win over! Please let me know at the time of booking if your dog is shy or nervous around strangers. We can build in extra time to help get your pet comfortable in front of my lens before we begin shooting. I want to make sure you and your pet have a great time during your session, so we will work at your pup’s pace to make the experience as stress-free as possible for you both.

• Can I be in the photos with my dog?

  • Yes. Sessions where owners would like to be included in more than 1 or 2 photos would considered “Pet and Family” sessions. There is a small fee of $50 for 1 person (+$25 for each additional person) that will be added to your package cost that covers extra Photoshop magic that is inherently required when photographing pets with their people.

• Where will our professional pet photography session take place?

  • There are several Columbus, Ohio, area parks that are perfect for your dog’s session. Holly will help you select the right location for you and your pup’s needs.

• Can I bring my partner/friend/family member with me to the shoot?

  • You are welcome to bring an extra person along to help wrangle or just cheer your pups on as they're in the spotlight. I do ask to keep the number of guests limited to 2 people maximum, as too many people can be distracting or even stressful for some dogs.

• The forecast calls for rain on the day of our shoot, will my session be cancelled?

  • At the time of booking, you will be given a list of dates to choose from. We will choose your primary date, and then a secondary back-up rain date. If the forecast looks like the weather will be poor for the day of your shoot, I will reach out the day before to chat with you about using your back-up rain date instead. Ohio weather can be quite unpredictable some days, so we will make the final decision together.

• I live outside of Columbus, Ohio, and am interested in a session for my pet. Do you travel?

  • Yes! Local travel (beyond initial 30 miles from New Albany, OH,) is $0.63 per mile. Interested in a session in another state? Let’s talk! I do offer travel and destination pet photography services. Please use the Contact page form to reach out so we can create a custom session just for you.

• Can I use your photos for my business / branding / merchandise / ad campaign / etc?

  • I frequently work directly with commercial clients on image licensing and would love to hear more about your needs. Please use the form on the Contact page, and I will be in touch as soon as possible with some licensing pricing and term options.

• I would like to commission a commercial animal photography shoot with you, and I have specific requirements about the doggy model. Can you find a model that fits our needs?

  • Yes! I have an extensive database and network of dogs (both purebred and mixed breeds) in Central Ohio. I will be able to find you the right match for your shoot based on the specific look, breed, age, or skills of the pet. Use the form on the Contact Page to tell me more about what you’re looking for.