Dog Photography Experience Guide
My Dog Won’t Sit Still!
Worried your dog is too hyper, shy, or untrained for a photo session?
Let me tell you a secret… almost every dog you see in my photos was wearing a leash!
As a professional dog photographer in South Florida, I specialize in working with real dogs — not just perfectly trained ones. Whether your pup is full of energy, nervous around strangers, or simply doesn’t listen, I have a bag of tricks (and a bit of Photoshop magic) to capture the best in them.
- 98% of dogs are leashed during their entire session
- I use leash removal editing so your photos look clean and natural
- I use tools like duck calls, squeakers, and treats to get perfect expressions
- I can capture off-leash-looking action shots with a secure long line
The truth is: your dog doesn’t need to be trained — they just need to show up.
How It Works
STEP 1: The Session Consultation
Let’s Talk About Your Dog (or Cat) — I’m All Ears
Consider this your official permission to gush about your pet. Whether it’s your dog’s goofy grin when you grab the leash, or the gentle way your horse rests their head on your shoulder — I want to hear it all.
Why? Because this isn’t just a pet photo session.
It’s a celebration of the deep bond you share with your four-legged best friend.
Consider this permission to gush about your dog or horse as much as you’d like—I truly want to hear it all! Their quirks, their favorite treats, the way they look at you when it’s time for a walk. This isn’t just a photoshoot; it’s a chance to celebrate the incredible bond you share.
During our consultation (typically over the phone or Zoom), we’ll customize every detail of your session:
- Where the session will take place
- Who will be involved (two-legged & four-legged family members welcome!)
- When the perfect time is for lighting, weather, and your pet’s energy levels
- How you envision displaying your images
Beginning with the end in mind. This step is crucial because every session is designed to create art that fits seamlessly into your home and lifestyle—not just to live on a screen.
Of course, you don’t need to make any final decisions at this stage, but having an idea of how you’d like to enjoy your images will influence the way we photograph your pet.
For example:
90% of pet parents choose an album—allowing us to include personality-filled moments, little details, classic portraits, and even a few fun bloopers in the final design.
If you’re unsure how you’d like to display your images—don’t worry, you’re in great company. That’s exactly what I’m here for! I’ll show you options you may not have even imagined and help design the perfect custom experience for you.
STEP 2: The Photo Session
Now the real fun begins — it’s time to play, explore, and let your pet be themselves!
Your custom pet photography session isn’t about stiff poses or perfect behavior. It’s about capturing the real personality of your dog or horse — whether that means zoomies, head tilts, tail wags, or just standing proudly in the breeze.
What to Expect During Your Pet Photo Shoot
We go at pet pace
Breaks, wiggles, sniff sessions, and spontaneous squirrel chases? Totally normal. Sessions are relaxed and pet-led.
- We adapt to the moment
Whether we’re in a scenic park, open field, wooded trail, or your own backyard, we’ll move with the light and energy of the moment to find the best backdrops.
- A little chaos is expected (and welcomed!)
Trust me — the in-between moments often make the best portraits.
My Promise to You:
- If your dog doesn’t want to sit, we’ll photograph them standing, running, sniffing, or interacting with you.
- If things feel a little messy — that’s where the magic happens. Trust the process.
As a professional dog and cat photographer, I’ve worked with pets of every personality — from energetic puppies to shy seniors. There’s no need to stress. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Relax and Enjoy the Experience
Take a deep breath. This is your time to laugh, connect, and celebrate the love you share with your four-legged companion. Together, we’ll create timeless pet portraits you’ll treasure forever.
STEP 3: The Image Reveal
About two weeks after your session, you’ll receive a custom video reveal or a 1on1 featuring all of your pet’s best images. This is one of the most exciting moments of the experience, and I always encourage clients to make it special.
Order your favorite takeout, pour a drink, and settle in for a beautiful, heartfelt viewing.
What to Expect During the Reveal
Your video will showcase:
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A custom-designed album layout – featuring a blend of timeless portraits, fun candid moments, and even a few perfectly imperfect bloopers that reflect your pet’s true personality.
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Wall art mockups to scale – so you can visualize your pet’s portraits on real walls, helping you confidently select the perfect pieces for your home.
This step is all about making the decision process easy, inspiring, and enjoyable. You'll get to see how each image could live as a tangible piece of art in your space.
After You Choose Your Favorites
Once your selections are made:
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Your artwork is sent into production and carefully crafted into heirloom-quality pieces
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Everything arrives professionally finished and ready to display—no extra steps or framing required
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Your pet’s images are transformed into lasting artwork that fits seamlessly into your life and home
Delivery Timeline
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Most artwork is delivered within 6 weeks
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Specialty items such as hand-brushed canvas pieces may take up to 12 weeks
Your selected digital images are always included with any order, and will be delivered in a private online gallery for easy downloading and sharing.
More Than Just Digital
These portraits are created to be seen and enjoyed every day—not just saved on a screen. From the very beginning, every part of your custom pet photography experience is designed to produce artwork that celebrates your dog or horse in a meaningful, lasting way.
Why Hire a Pro?
You could keep taking photos of your dog with your phone…
and keep getting blurry blobs, tangled leashes, and the occasional awkward selfie.
You could ask your friend who shoots weddings…
but they don’t know how to work with dogs (and probably won’t appreciate a slobbery kiss like I do).
You could try ordering artwork from those online sites…
after spending hours researching and editing, only to end up posting it to Instagram—where it disappears in a day.
Or…
You could choose a better way—one that celebrates your dog with intention, beauty, and heirloom artwork designed to last.
Investment Overview
Every pet and every session is different—but here’s what you can expect.
Most of my clients invest between $2,000 and $10,000 + on their custom portrait experience, most falling in the middle somewhere.
Your final investment depends on what you fall in love with: a handcrafted album, statement wall art, or both. There’s no pressure to decide upfront. During the reveal, I’ll walk you through all the options and help you create something you’ll treasure forever.
We offer:
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Custom-designed albums
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Fine art wall pieces
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Digital files included with artwork orders
Chari
It was a pleasure working with Mario. He captured the best pictures of our fur babies (and we have many) our dogs loved him. We received our the portraits really quickly and he has so many options available.
Andrea
Mario was an absolute DREAM to work with! I can't sing high enough praises for him and his talent for capturing such precious moments. He will go above and beyond for the shot you want most. He’s not just a photographer, he’s a true artist who takes stunning portraits of your pet.
This is What We Create Together
Ready to get started?
Let's capture your dog’s spirit, your bond, and the joy you share—beautifully and forever.