Frequently Asked Questions
I have never done this before so how do I begin?
First of all, let's talk! I'd love to hear about your pets and learn about what you might be looking for in a session. From there, we will be able to figure out what might be best and go from there. Believe me, photo sessions are fun, so there's nothing to be nervous about! Start by filling out the brief form in the lower section below or simply email me at DianaElledgeStudioE@gmail.com or text: 619-997-9273.
How long does a session last?
I offer several different packages. One option is a 60-75 minute session and the other runs 30-40 minutes. If for any reason it takes a bit longer to capture the images, no problem.
Photographing young puppies under 8 weeks of age require special care. Session lengths do vary depending on age. Can I begin to tell you how much fun it is to photograph puppies!
Can I be in a photograph with my pet?
Yes, of course! But please know that although I am a pet photographer first and foremost, I also want to capture the special relationship you have with your pet. If you are interested in including this in your session, I will provide special information about clothing and other details.
My dog isn't very well trained. In fact, I can't ever get her to sit or stay. Can you still get good photographs?
Well, I'll admit that a sit and/or stay command is helpful, but definitely not required. We will work together to find great poses and other amazing possibilities to show off your dog's personality. I always bring a crazy assortment of sounds that dogs react to and I almost guarantee you and I will be laughing as we go!
My dog can't be off leash. Is that okay?
Absolutely! In fact, in many locations, having dogs off leash is not allowed. I definitely prefer dogs kept on leash. It's for their safety. Most leashes can be magically removed during my editing process.
Do you use treats?
Yes. I ask all my clients to bring a small sealed plastic bag of favorite treats such as kibble or other small dry nuggets. When we have our consultation, we'll talk about how and when I bring treats into our session. And I will also recommend you to bring water for your pet, especially on the hotter days of the year.
I'm curious about locations. What do you recommend?
First of all, San Diego is quite photogenic and I have several outdoor "go to" locations which I recommend. However, your session must be personal for you. When we talk about the type of images you want of your pet, that will help guide us to the perfect spot(s). Sometimes when portraits are requested, a simple natural garden background works beautifully. And it's not all about location--the time of day can make magical images too!
My dog doesn't travel well and is nervous in places he's not familiar with. Do you have alternatives?
How about your backyard or familiar area near your home that offers us a simple background. Sometimes the most simple background allows for the most beautiful portraits or profile photographs. I will come to your home and we will find just the perfect spot for our session.
You have a gallery including kittens and cats. I'm interested in having my cat photographed in my home. Is this a possibility?
Definitely. I do make "house calls" for cats and I can either bring a small back drop or we can consider locations in your home. Many cats are unpredictable and sessions often go differently than planned. Prior to booking a session, I do require meeting your pet just to be sure that he or she is likely to be comfortable with me and won't race to hide under the bed, never to be seen again. I bring fun toys to grab their undivided attention as cats tend to be visually motivated.