What exactly happens at a Shadow Dog session?

Are you wondering what all the excitement is about, and what really goes on when you work with me at Shadow Dog Photography? Maybe you’ve seen a friend’s recent post showing an amazing photo of his or her dog. I’m here to bring you in behind the curtain, and explain how this works (and just how much fun we have). It’s time to share everything you need to know about the Shadow Dog process.

The First Step: a Great Conversation

I want to get to know you and your pup, and you probably have lots of questions for me about Shadow Dog Photography. I also want to learn how you plan to display your art. Framed canvas, framed metal print, a beautiful album, or a portfolio box with matted prints, there are some incredible options to choose from. We’ll also discuss the entire process, and we’ll book dates for your portrait session and ordering appointment. Some families have multiple dogs, and that’s great too!

Your best friend might be slowing down and perhaps you don’t feel like she has much time. Don’t worry, I work hard to meet these special requests. Every client is unique, and that’s why I fully customize your entire experience. That’s the beauty of working with Shadow Dog Photography.

Sophie looks gorgeous agains the fresh white snow.

Book Your Session:

We’ll decide on a date that best suits your needs. Are you looking for a fresh, spring photo session? Hoping for those golden autumn hues? How about the fresh crisp snow? The beautiful thing about Wisconsin is the full selection of seasons to choose from! Of course if you prefer a studio session, this can happen any time of year.

Once you decide on your preferred date and pay the retainer fee, you’re on the calendar! Certain times of year are pretty popular and book up quickly, so you don’t want to wait before you contact me. I want to be sure you get the best date possible!

Location:

Shadow Dog Photography has ten acres in the woods, and is located near Whitewater, WI. Your session can be outdoors or in studio. If you choose an outdoor adventure, there are trails, open spaces, and over an acre that’s fully fenced in. The enclosed field allows your dog to safely run off leash and gives us the option to try for fantastic action shots. 

Studio sessions are calm, quiet, and allow for classic portraits of your best friend. Indoor studio sessions take place no matter what the weather (perfect if you don’t like cold winter or hot summer temperatures).

Your Photo Session:

Get ready to have some fun! Are you worried that your dog’s too rambunctious and won’t stand still for any photos? Have no fear, this happens all the time. I’m patient—really patient. And I’m fast. When those wild ones least expect it, I’ve captured the image I’m looking for, and usually clients don’t even know!  Rest assured, I’ll get what I need to fulfill your vision (and mine).

Are you worried because your pet cannot be off leash? Worry no more, most pets are leashed. I’ll work my magic when I edit the images, nobody will ever know!

Variety is the spice of life, so if we’re outdoors, we’ll move around to various spots. We’ll be sure to get some photos of you with your dog too if you like, and if you have more than one dog we’ll get a gorgeous group shot of them as well. If we’re in studio we’ll go slowly to give your pup time to get comfortable, then I’ll work to capture amazing images of your best pal.

Sessions typically run one to two hours, depending on the number of dogs, each dog’s temperament, and other factors too. Our time together will be low-key and as stress free as possible. I want you and your pup to have an amazing time here at Shadow Dog Photography.

How many great photos do you have of you and your dog?

Photo Reveal Appointment:    

Now this is the exciting part! We’ll meet (in person or via Zoom) on the scheduled date so you can see your images and choose your favorites. You’ll see samples of the beautiful products I offer, just in case you’re still struggling to decide how to display your photos. I’ll help guide you through the entire selection process so you don’t have to worry about a thing! Once your order is paid in full I’ll send your images to my lab. Depending on the products you choose, your artwork will be ready in 3-4 weeks.

Make a statement with a grouping of three framed prints.

Love Your Artwork:

Here is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Your gorgeous art is ready for you to hold in your hands. Take it home where it will make you smile—over and over again.

If you’ve been thinking about planning a photoshoot for your furry family members, click here so we can start your Shadow Dog adventure.