* Why do you only accept application-only photosessions?
As a serious small business with over 20 years of experience in both the photography and dog industries, we have operational costs, ongoing learning, and investments to maintain the high standards we set for our work. This includes sourcing only the best-quality products for you—items that are built to last decades. We want to collaborate with dog lovers who share the same level of commitment to the process. The work we do extends beyond the photoshoot itself, involving many hours of preparation and post-shoot work to ensure the best results. We only accept clients who are as dedicated to capturing beautiful moments with their pets as we are.


* Do you offer outdoor as well as studio sessions? 
Yes, absolutely! Every dog (and pet) is unique, and both outdoor and studio sessions offer different experiences and results. We’ll work together to determine which option best suits your pet’s personality and your vision for the photos. Whether it’s the natural beauty of the outdoors or the controlled, intimate setting of the studio, we’ll make sure the session is tailored to bring out the best in your dog/pet.

* How long does a typical photoshoot last? 
An outdoor session is typically 60 mins, can be longer if we love to have a chat! 
A studio session will be similar, but i do tend to take 15 mins pre shoot to let your dog relax, there are a lot of dog smells in my studio, and  I want your dog to walk around and smell them all before we ask them for their cooperation for their photoshoot. 

*What time do sessions take place? 
Depending on the time of year for an outdoor photoshoot, we will meet anywhere from 5-6.30am for a sunrise session or 3.30-7pm for an afternoon session.
For a studio photoshoot, we do those at 11am, week days and weekends.

* What happens if my dog doesn’t cooperate during the shoot?
It’s completely normal for dogs to have their own moods, and it’s one of the reasons I love photographing them! If your dog isn't feeling it, there's no need to worry. We take things at a relaxed pace, and we'll work with whatever energy your dog brings. If we feel a reshoot is necessary for the perfect shots, we’ll gladly reschedule. As professionals, our one goal is to get the best photos possible, and we don’t operate on an hourly rate. This means we can focus on capturing beautiful, fun moments without any pressure—just an enjoyable experience for you and your dog!


* Is it ok to leave my dog on lead? im scared they might run off!
Absohellalutly! We actually prefer dogs to be on lead during all outdoor sessions, and even some studio sessions. It helps your dog feel safer, and it gives both you and us peace of mind knowing they’re secure. We’re experts at capturing beautiful moments, no matter the lead!


* Can multiple dogs or people be included in the session?
YES, and we absolutely love it! When multiple dogs or people are involved, we’ll create a “shot list” ahead of the photoshoot. This ensures we capture all the must-have photos you want from your professional experience, making sure everyone is included in the fun and special moments.


* My Dog is shy and anxious, can they still have a photoshoot?
Absolutely! If your dog is feeling anxious, we’ll discuss it during your pre-shoot consultation and take the necessary steps to ensure their comfort. We’ll go at their pace, and I’ll make sure they have time to get to know me beforehand. My goal is to create a relaxed, positive environment so your dog can feel at ease and enjoy the experience.

* Where do your photoshoots take place?
Our photoshoots take place in the beautiful Lake Macquarie area. During your pre-shoot chat, we’ll decide whether a studio or outdoor session best suits your vision. Both studio and outdoor sessions provide unique looks and vibes, so the choice depends on your preference and the outcome you’re hoping for.

Studio Sessions: These are held in my dog-friendly home studio in Belmont, where we can create a controlled, comfortable environment for your pet.
Outdoor Sessions: We’ll work together to choose a location, whether it’s a special place you love, a spot around the lake, the beach, or even the bush.
For those dramatic, breathtaking shots with stunning lighting and scenic backdrops, we also have favorite locations we recommend. Every detail will be decided before booking to ensure your photoshoot is perfectly tailored to you and your dog!


* Can we choose our own location for the photoshoot?
Yes, absolutely! This will be discussed during your pre-shoot chat. If you have a special place in mind, I’ll make sure to check out the area beforehand to find the best lighting and prepare for the perfect shots. Your chosen location will help create a meaningful and beautiful backdrop for your photos!

* What do you do in case of bad weather (for outdoor shoots)?
I keep a close eye on the weather starting a week before your shoot—it’s an essential part of my planning process. If the forecast doesn’t look ideal for our desired outcome, we’ll discuss the situation together and decide on the best time to postpone. If rescheduling isn’t an option, we’ll talk through the best alternatives to ensure your photoshoot is still a success.

* Do you travel for photoshoots, and if so, is there a travel fee?
Absolutely! We love traveling for photoshoots. Any applicable travel fees will be discussed and determined during your pre-shoot chat, based on your chosen package and location.

* Is the photoshoot environment safe and comfortable for all dogs?
Absolutely! Your dog’s safety and comfort are our top priorities. That’s why the pre-shoot chat is so important—I take the time to learn about you and your dog to ensure we choose the perfect location and environment. The goal is to create a relaxed setting where your dog feels at ease and looks just like the happy, comfortable dog you know and love at home.

* How do you ensure the safety of my dog during the session?
Your dog’s safety is our top priority. Based on the information shared during our pre-shoot chat, we’ll consider your dog’s energy levels and recall history to plan accordingly. We prefer all dogs to remain on leads throughout the session, with very rare exceptions. Rest assured, even if it doesn’t look like it in the final images, you’ll always be standing right beside your dog during the photoshoot.

Additionally, we take the time to build trust with your dog before the session begins. The first 15–30 minutes are all about getting to know your dog and making them feel comfortable—before the camera even comes out of the bag! This ensures a relaxed and safe environment for your pet.

* What if my dog doesn’t get along with other animals?
This is more common than you might think, and it’s absolutely no problem! We have carefully chosen locations where interactions with other dogs can be kept to a minimum. Plus, we have plenty of strategies to manage those rare moments when another dog might pass by, ensuring your dog feels safe and comfortable throughout the session.

* How much does a dog photoshoot cost?
Our packages start at $500. The final cost depends on your budget and the desired outcome of your photoshoot. All pricing details will be discussed during our pre-shoot chat to ensure there are no surprises, and you’ll have a clear understanding of what’s included in your package.

* Why are you so much more expensive than other photographers who charge $80 for all the digital files?
As a professional photography business, we have significant operational costs, including taxes, business expenses, and ongoing investments in education and safety. Those offering digital files for $80 are often not professionals and may lack the experience needed to run a successful dog photography business. More importantly, they may not have the expertise in handling dogs safely and professionally.

There is nothing wrong with choosing a photographer that fits your budget, but it's essential to understand the difference. What happens if your dog runs away while in the care of an amateur photographer? That "cheap" photoshoot could quickly become your most expensive vet bill or result in heartache. We prioritize your dog’s safety, comfort, and the quality of your experience—things that go far beyond a price tag.
As a professional photography business, we have significant operational costs, including taxes, business expenses, and ongoing investments in education and safety. Those offering digital files for $80 are often not professionals and may lack the experience needed to run a successful dog photography business. More importantly, they may not have the expertise in handling dogs safely and professionally.

There is nothing wrong with choosing a photographer that fits your budget, but it's essential to understand the difference. What happens if your dog runs away while in the care of an amateur photographer? That "cheap" photoshoot could quickly become your most expensive vet bill or result in heartache. We prioritize your dog’s safety, comfort, and the quality of your experience—things that go far beyond a price tag.

As a professional photography business, we have significant operational costs, including taxes, business expenses, and ongoing investments in education and safety. Those offering digital files for $80 are often not professionals and may lack the experience needed to run a successful dog photography business. More importantly, they may not have the expertise in handling dogs safely and professionally.

There is nothing wrong with choosing a photographer that fits your budget, but it's essential to understand the difference. What happens if your dog runs away while in the care of an amateur photographer? That "cheap" photoshoot could quickly become your most expensive vet bill or result in heartache. We prioritize your dog’s safety, comfort, and the quality of your experience—things that go far beyond a price tag.

* Can we just buy one photo/digital file
Unfortunately, no. Our packages start at $500, which include options for digital files or printed products. As a professional photography business, we have a minimum spend to ensure we can provide you with the highest-quality service and final product.

* What is included in the session fee?
Our session fee/minimum spend of $500 includes:

- A Pre-Session Consultation Call or in Person Consultation
- An In-Studio or On-Location Portrait Experience
- A Design & Purchasing Appointment
- 5x 12x8 inch edited prints & social media-sized digital files
OR
- 2x 12-inch desktop prints
$50 credit towards artwork: finished wall prints, desktop prints, or albums
A $20 donation to a local rescue of your choice
This package is designed to give you a complete, personalised photoshoot experience without requiring you to spend above your budget if that is restrictive, while also supporting a local rescue.

* Do you offer print packages, digital files, or albums?
Yes, we offer a variety of packages that include wall art, albums, or timber boxes with digital files. Digital files are complimentary with these packages, so you can keep them as a blueprint for your prints.

We provide a range of high-quality products, including boxed canvas & metal prints, ornate framed canvases, leather albums, and stunning
double-sided timber fine art matted print boxes—perfect for showcasing your photos at home. We regularly update our product offerings with new, exclusive items that can’t be found in stores.

Our products are of exceptional quality and designed to last for decades without losing their appeal. If you choose to purchase only digital files, we cannot guarantee the same high-quality print results that we provide with our professional products.

* Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Unless you decide to make changes after seeing your photos, there are no hidden costs. Once we've had our pre-photoshoot chat and agreed on your package, everything is outlined with no surprises.

* How many photos will I receive to choose our favourites?
The number of photos you’ll receive depends entirely on your desired outcome. For example, if you're aiming for a stunning 3-piece large wall art display, you'll receive approximately 5-8 photos to choose from for those 3 favorites. If you prefer a leather-wrapped album to tell a larger story, you'll receive between 20-30 photos for selection in a 20-page album.

This is why the pre-photoshoot chat is essential. Whether it’s 5-8 incredible images or 20-30, we’ll determine your needs and plan accordingly. We don’t just show up and take endless photos, a method often referred to in the industry as "spray and pray." As professionals, we don’t rely on
chance—we plan each shot to suit your vision, ensuring the best possible results tailored specifically to you and your dog.

* How long does it take to receive the photos after the session?
As professional photographers who value our clients and the quality of our work, we limit the number of clients we take on each month. This ensures we can dedicate the time and attention you deserve without juggling multiple shoots at once. Ideally, we like to schedule your design and purchasing appointment 7 days after your photoshoot, giving us ample time to carefully select and edit your images to perfection.

* Do you provide photo editing and retouching?
Yes, absolutely! If you've been drawn to our work, you’ll have noticed our signature painterly, old-world charm. Each photo you receive is fully edited to match our unique style. This may involve adjustments like changing heads to create the perfect composition, removing unwanted elements, or enhancing the sky to better suit the image. If you’re not included in the shot, we also make sure to carefully edit you out of the frame.

We do not sell or offer 'raw' or unedited photos under any circumstances, as our editing is an integral part of the process that brings out the full potential of each image.

* Will you share photos from our session on social media?
This is entirely up to you. If you prefer not to have your photos shared on our website or social media, we completely respect your choice. While it’s something we do often, we understand and honour your privacy preferences.

* How do we see & choose our favourite photos?
We prefer you come into the studio to view your photos in the high-quality format we see on our computer. During this session, we can go through the wall art options together and determine how they will look in your home. However, we understand that clients who live further away may not always be able to return within the 7-day window. For these cases, we offer an online platform where you can view your photos, though please note that the images will be watermarked and in smaller format, which doesn’t reflect their true quality. We can also arrange a Zoom call for your ordering session if necessary.

Please note, we do not condone the use of screenshots to print photos yourself. It’s important to understand that doing so is equivalent to theft, as it deprives a professional of payment for their work. We pour a significant amount of time, effort, and investment into capturing and editing your dog’s photos, and we ask that you respect this process. Just as you wouldn’t expect to work without being paid, we believe in fair compensation for our work.

* Can you accommodate special needs or senior dogs?
Oh yes! This is especially close to our hearts. Having many senior dogs ourselves, as well as a very special needs dog, we have a lot of experience and patience in accommodating these requests. We understand the unique needs of senior and special needs dogs and take extra care to ensure they’re comfortable and relaxed during the photoshoot. Your dog’s well-being is our top priority, and we will tailor the session to suit their needs.

* Can you capture action shots of my dog playing or running?
While action shots are not our primary specialty, we can certainly capture them as part of your photoshoot if that’s something you’d like. We’ll discuss this in detail during your pre-photoshoot chat to ensure we’re aligned on your vision. If we feel another photographer might be better suited for action shots, we’d be happy to refer you to one of our trusted colleagues who specialises in that area.


*Do you offer themed sessions (holidays, birthdays, etc.)?
Yes, we can create themed sessions for you in a professional way. However, if props or backdrops need to be purchased, additional costs may apply. During our pre-photoshoot chat, we’ll discuss all the details, so you’ll have a clear understanding of any costs involved. There’s no obligation or cost for completing the application form or having the pre-photoshoot chat.

* Can we be in some photos too?
ABSOLUTELY! In fact, we often suggest including you in the photos, even if you think you don’t want to. Many clients have told us afterwards that they wished they had some with themselves in the frame. It’s always better to have them just in case, rather than regretting not having them later!

* Can I bring a friend or family member along?
YES! It’s often more fun and can make the session easier with a friend or family member along. If you'd like them to be included in the photos, please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly. We also recommend that each dog has one handler, as it helps to keep one dog engaged while we focus on individual photos.

* Do you offer guidance or pose suggestions during the session?
HELL YES!!! We are very hands-on during the session when it comes to how you or your dog look on camera. As professionals, we know what looks awkward and what looks natural. Kelly will always give guidance throughout the shoot, making adjustments like asking you to place your hand differently if something looks uncomfortable or off. Our goal is to capture you and your dog looking their absolute best!

* Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, we do! However, we like to speak with the purchaser beforehand to ensure they understand that the gift certificate isn't a complete package. The recipient will likely still need to spend some money, as our services are a great way to contribute to a photoshoot experience if they’re looking for one and would appreciate some extra help with their budget.

* Can I purchase additional prints or products later?
We prefer to offer the complete service at the time of your photoshoot, as we like to wrap everything up during the ordering session. However, if there are photos you love that weren’t in your specified budget, we can discuss how long the files can be held until you're ready to purchase them. We're happy to work with you to find a solution that fits your needs!

* Do you do pet photography for charities or special events?
Yes, we absolutely do! We are proud to be the founders of the Dogs of Lake Mac coffee table book, which raises money for local rescues. We also organise the Milly's Star Calendar, benefiting Milly's Search Trap and Reunite. Additionally, we offer various opportunities throughout the year to support rescues. Plus, $20 from your session fee is donated to your chosen rescue in your dog’s name. Keep your eye on our Facebook page for these special events—we love using our photography to give back to the community!
In 2024 we raised a whopping $8162  for local rescues! We are aiming for a lot more in 2025!

* How should I prepare my dog for the photoshoot?
Once we've had our pre-photoshoot call or in-person chat and all your questions are answered, you’ll be directed to our Client Lounge. Here, you’ll find all the information and tips you need to prepare your dog for the photoshoot, from what to bring to how to make sure your dog feels comfortable and ready for their close-up!

If you’ll be in some photos with your dog, we also offer clothing options for you to wear, which includes photos to help you choose. This can save time and take the guesswork out of what might suit you best for the session.