FAQ
MY
DOG
What if my dog can’t be off a leash? No problamo - that’s what photoshop is for! I actually encourage the leash remain on the dog(s) during outdoor sessionsbecause there can be a lot of unexpected surprises (aka, squirrels, other dogs, people in banana costumes) and we want to make sure everyone stays safe and happy.
My dog is getting old and/or sick, how quickly can you book a session? I will expedite booking of a session for terminilly ill dogs or those who’s health is declining. Please notify me of this at the time of consultation/booking.
Can I be in the photos, too? Multi-subject sessions are available for outdoor/location shoots. This is the environment that I believe allows the most natural interaction between a dog and their person. I absolutely love capturing the bond you share with your dog, and strongly encourage everyone to jump in at least a few shots :) Because of the need for natural/relaxed interactions, studio sessions are limited to dog only as the many new things (lights, smells of other dogs, etc.) can be distracting and detract from their focus on you.
What if my dog is really scared or shy? Most of the time it’s nothing a little patience, hot dogs, and cookies can’t solve. Whatever your dog’s demeanor, I will do everything I can to make them comfortable, even if it means putting a chew toy in my mouth, squeaking it, and pretending I’m a dog just to get them to laugh. Really though, most of the time they get comfortable if we listen to what they need. We will find a way to capture beautiful images, have no fear.
What if my dog has a lot of energy? Much like a scared/shy dog, patience is the key. We can talk about different environments (studio vs. outdoor) to determine what works best for their personality. Also, pre-session exercise is very important for these dogs and will make a world of difference in their energy level during the shoot, so I always recommend a trip to the dog park or a nice log walk or run in the back yard.
Can I book a session with multiple dogs?
Studio shoots are limited to single subjects, however you will receive a discount if you have two dogs you want to book in back to back sessions. If you choose this option, I recommend bringing a dog wrangler with you to help! If you don’t have one available, I can provide an assistant for an additional fee. This is to eliminate the chaos that could stem from an unleashed dog roaming the studio during the other dog’s session.
Standard outdoor/location shoots are more suited (and encouraged!) for multiple subjects
The
Session
How do I book at session? Head over to the Contact page.
What’s the process? Check out the Process page for a detailed breakdown of what to expect!
How do I prepare for the session? Check out the page ‘How to Avoid a Ruff Picture Day’ for tips and tricks that will help you prepare for the big day!
What color backdrops do you have? Check out backdrop option page to see all available backdrop colors. If you want something specific but you don’t see it available, let me know!
What if my dog poops or pees in the studio? No worries! It wouldn’t be the first time and I guarantee it won’t be the last. I am armed with lots of dog-safe cleaning supplies.
How long are the sessions? That depends on the type of session purchased - check out the Investment page for more information.
Do you require a deposit? A $50 deposit is due at time of booking for all sessions. This will act as a hold on the date/time chosen for the shoot and will ensure the photographer does not book any other appointments during that time. This deposit is applied toward your total session cost, which is due in full by 5 p.m. the day before the scheduled shoot.
Do you travel? I do. Check out the packages that outline the travel details for each session type in the Investment page
Where is the studio located? In the heart of Midtown, Detroit. Right across from a dog park. (Perfect, right?!)
What kind of sessions do you offer? A handful of different kinds - check em out on the Investment page.
I am interested in something that I don’t see offered on your page…can you do it? Cool = tell me more! ! I can do custom quotes and would love to put your vision into action. Let me know what you have in mind and we can figure something out!
What if i want a backdrop color you don’t have? Let me know what color you are looking for and depending on the timeline, I may be able to purchase it before the session for an additional cost.
What if the weather sucks and I have an outdoor shoot?
It's Michigan, so that happens a lot and sadly, I don't have weather control powers (yet) So, if the weather is ‘yucky’ I will contact you the morning of talk about rescheduling to a better time!
What if I have to reschedule?
If you cannot make the appointment please let me know as soon as possible, and no later than 24 hours in advance to avoid deposit forfeiture
Can you retouch the images to hide my imperfections? Generally I remove blemishes but I can also do more significant changes at your request for an additional fee. For animals, it's common to clean up their eyes and remove stray fur.
Can I bring my friends and family to the session? When doing a Studio session, we are aiming for an 'ooosaaah' kind of vibe. A relaxed environment makes for a relaxed and happy dog. so limiting the audience is important to achieving this, With all the new smells, sounds, sights going on, its important to only introduce the necessary distractions! Additional people are welcome for outdoor/location sessions.
Can my dog wear a costume in the photos? Feel free to bring the costume. However, keep in mind that most dog costumes are made with the intended viewing perspective being from above. Often times the effect does not translate well to eye-level photos and the normally cute bumble-bee dog ends up looking like an awkward dog in weird straps and velcro.
Other
Things
What payment methods do you accept? Paypal and credit/debit card,
Do you offer gift certificates? Yes! Check out the contact page and choose the gift card option and I will follow up with you to discuss how to purchase!
Where are the outdoor and/or location sessions done? That’s totally up to you! If you have a specific spot in mind, let me know. If you need help picking a location, I would be glad to take your vision and do some scouting to find a location that fits perfectly.
Do you offer any discounts? Periodically I will offer specials that are advertised through instagram, facebook, and partnering businesses. Keep your eyes peeled and follow social media for special offers throughout the year.
Do you have a referral program? Yes! For every 5 clients you refer that book a session with Detroit City Dogs, you'll earn a free Mini Session for your pup! Tell your friends and family to head over to the contact page to submit their information, and have them enter your name in the ‘How’d you hear about us?’ question!
What if i don’t like the photos? I certainly hope that never happens, but if for some reason it does I will find a way to make it right for you, through possible re-shoots, reprints, etc. Your satisfaction is my highest priority.
Do you photograph other pets? Yes, let me know what kind of mammal, reptile, insect, or human you had in mind!
Can I buy digitals only? Of course. Digitals start at 5 for $150, and the cost per digital decreases as the quantity increases.
Are digitals included with my session fee? No, digitals and prints/artwork are a separate cost. Additional pricing information can be found on the Investment page
Can I print my own photos? If you have purchased digitals and the photographer has provided a print release, you have the right to print for personal use. However, I strongly encourage working with Detroit City Dogs to place print orders as the quality and longevity of a print done by a professional lab will far exceed that of a local drugstore/superclub store.
I am doing an outdoor/location shoot and I have no idea what to wear, can you help!? Sure can. Check out my pinterest board for some inspiration. A few rules of thumb I recommend are:
Tail wags for these things:
Neutral colors
clean shoes
nice socks (leave the ones with holes at home)
Coordinating color palettes
WOOF! to these:
Trendy looks/fads that may cause you to throw up in your mouth 20 years from now.
Lots of patterns
Neon colors (you don't want to look like a pylon in the forest)
Large visible brand labels