Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I keep my dog on a leash during the photo session?

    Absolutely – Almost every dog you see on my website was photographed with a leash on. With a touch of editing artistry, I seamlessly remove the leashes in post-production, leaving you with elegant, natural-looking portraits.

    Safety is my top priority, and keeping your dog on-leash not only ensures their well-being but also helps us adhere to local leash laws and achieve the perfect seemingly-impossible poses. If you’d prefer your dog to be off-leash, that’s entirely fine too. Your comfort and your dog’s happiness are at the heart of our session.

    ↑ Use the slider to see before & after  ↑

  • Does my dog need to be well trained to have a great photo session?

    Not at all – Your dog doesn’t need any training whatsoever. Your photo session will be a fun adventure outdoors with some photo breaks along the way. It’s a relaxed, laid back setting where your dog can just be themselves. If they’re a bit wild, even better. I love capturing all aspects of your dog’s personality to create images that reflect their true self.

    I’ve photographed every kind of dog. From brand new puppies that didn’t even know their name yet, to deaf and blind senior dogs. No matter your dog’s level of training, I’ll create beautiful portraits of them.

  • Can you photograph my nervous/shy/reactive dog?

    Without a doubt. I have a fearful and reactive dog, so I get it. It can be intimidating to try new things when you’re unsure how they’ll react.

    Together, we’ll design a session that sets your dog up for success, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident. Usually, this involves choosing a familiar location your dog already likes, meeting ahead of time to get acquainted with each other and build trust, using a longer lens at the session to keep some distance, and reinforcing your dog’s bravery with plenty of treats and praise.

  • How do you handle dogs with special needs or disabilities?

    Together, we design your custom session to ensure it’s fun and accessible for your dog. During our Planning Meeting, we’ll talk about any limitations your dog experiences and any concerns you have. Based on that conversation, we’ll select the perfect location, date, and time for you and your dog.

    Whether your dog faces mobility limitations, sensory challenges, or just typical issues for senior dogs, we’ll create a session that allows them to be themselves and have a great time.

  • How do you choose the location for the photo session?

    We’ll choose your location together. Before your photo session, we’ll have a Planning Meeting where we’ll talk about you and your dog, your style, and your vision for the portraits. This info will help us choose the best location for you.

    I have a curated list of favourite locations in the region that we can choose from or use as inspiration. Together, we’ll find a spot that reflects your personality and ensures beautiful, memorable portraits.

  • Do you photograph other types of pets?

    Yes – I create portraits of any domestic animal. This includes dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, lizards, horses, or any other beloved pet. I’d love to discuss how we can create beautiful images of your furry, feathered, or scaly family members. Connect with me to start planning a session tailored to your pet.

  • How do I book a session with you?

    Booking your session is easy! Simply visit my contact page, fill out the quick form, and I’ll be in touch within 24 hours to start planning your personalized portrait experience.

  • Can I be included in some of the photographs with my dog?

    Absolutely – I highly encourage capturing moments of you and your dog together.The bond you share is special, and immortalizing it in photographs can be incredibly meaningful.

    During your Ordering Appointment, you have the opportunity to choose and purchase only the photographs that you absolutely love. I’m confident you’ll cherish the photos of you and your dog together. If for any reason you prefer not to purchase them, we will focus solely on your favourite portraits of your dog.

Sam was so incredibly patient with my two (one deaf with low vision) senior dogs.

“Sam captured my two dogs’ personalities perfectly. The photos are absolutely beautiful, something I will treasure forever. I loved working with Sam- she was so incredibly patient with two (one deaf with low vision) seniors, taking her time to catch them just as they were. It was such a low pressure, relaxed photo session- I don’t think my girls even knew they were being watched and the end product was spectacular. If you’re thinking of working with Sam, do it!”

- Maple & Pigeon's Mom
  • How much can I expect to invest in the whole experience?

    Because every portrait order is customized, the total investment varies from client to client. Here’s a breakdown:

    SESSION FEE ($290+Tax) + PORTRAIT ORDER = TOTAL INVESTMENT

    The cost of your portrait order will depend on how many portraits you love and how you want to display them. You’ll decide what your total investment is at your Ordering Appointment when you place your order. Portraits start at $250.

  • What happens if the weather is bad on the day of the photo session?

    I’ll watch the weather forecast like a hawk the days leading up to your photo session. Cloudy, snowy or even very light rain conditions can add a touch of drama and create stunning dog portraits.

    However, if mother nature doesn’t cooperate and we encounter snowstorms, heavy rain, or extreme heat, I’ll contact you to reschedule ASAP. Your Session Fee will transfer over to your new date in case of inclement weather, ensuring we capture beautiful portraits in the best possible conditions.

  • Do you offer digital files of the photos?

    What really lights me up is creating printed art that positively impacts your day-to-day life. I firmly believe in the value of printed photographs that make you smile when you see them in your home every day. Your photographs are meant to be cherished, preserved and experienced; not lost somewhere in the cloud or quickly scrolled past on social media.

    You get 2 versions of every photo you purchase from me:

    • Printed Art: Choose from wall art, albums, or matted prints.
    • Matching Digital File

    I don’t offer digital-only packages. However, if you’d like to purchase a package of matted prints and waive the printed versions, you can certainly opt for that option at the same price.