Session Settings:
Outdoors sessions can be at any location, that you have chosen. The photographer can give you ideas, but it is the client's responsibility to set up that location. Consider the fact, that the best locations will not be in direct sunlight, and the best times to shoot outdoors, are shortly after sunrise and late afternoon, when the sun is not directly over-head. Also, If your location is outside the Rapid City area, there may be a milage charge, for the photographer, to visit your location.
Indoor sessions will be at your place of residence. Hopefully by doing so, the animals will be more comfortable. The photographer works with your given space.
Tips to get the most out of your session:
Animal Sessions:
1) Don't feed you pet(s) a large meal, before your session. If your pet(s) is/are food motivated, treats can help to move a session along. (Make sure, if your pet is on a special diet, that you have your own treats available.)
2) Have their favorite toy available! It can motivate but may also make a great prop for portraits. (Squeekers are cool!)
3) If your pet has que words - make sure that the photographer knows what they are.
4) Remember to relax - Most animals are not going to know what we want from them. The less stressed you remain, the more calm they will be. Pets are not always going to act the way you want them to - its a fact of life. Be calm, and think of ways to keep them involved!
Multiple pet sessions, require at least one additional handler (For equine sessions - one handler per horse). If you choose to do individual portraits, the photographer wants to give each animal the individual attention it deserves. She asks that all others involved in that session, either be kenneled or in another area away from the shoot.
People:
1) We want your faces to be the focal point! Lighter skin tones should wear darker colors and vice versa.
2) Everyone should wear the same color, or a similar shade. It helps to keep the clothing from being distraction in to portrait.
3) The closer you get together, in the frame, the more cohesive the portrait will look.
4) If you are bringing children, try and set up your session when they are usually most happy. It's best not to choose a time when they would normally be taking a nap.
5) For children - bring their favorite toy! It can motivate but may also make a great prop for portraits.
6) Long-sleeve shirts are always prefered, but not required.
Don't forget to check out the current specials!
