The Quiet Season: Why You Should Book a Pet Portrait Session in January
As we race toward the end of the year, the noise seems to get louder. The to-do lists are long, the stores are crowded, and our calendars are packed.
But while everyone is rushing to the finish line of December, I find myself looking forward to what comes next.
The quiet.
At West Oak, I don’t typically lean into the "New Year, New Me" energy. I don't do party hats, confetti, or forced resolutions. For me, January isn't about hype; it is about the stillness that settles in after the guests have gone home and the decorations are packed away.
I call this "The Quiet Season."
While many people wait for the leaves to return to book their session, I think there is something deeply special about the start of the year. It isn't about marking a date on the calendar; it is about capturing the calm, "settled" version of your life together.
Here is why I am encouraging clients to look at January differently this year.
Connection Over Chaos
Right now, your dog is probably sensing the holiday stress. The house is busy, routines are off, and there is a lot of stimulation.
The Quiet Season is the antidote.
You don’t need to worry about having a "perfect" house or a dog that performs tricks on command. My sessions are never about performance. They are about the bond you share.
Whether your dog is a young, energetic pup or in those sweet, grey-faced years, next month offers a chance to simply breathe. I want to capture the way they look at you when you’re relaxing on a quiet Saturday, not the way they look at a treat amidst the holiday hustle.
Option 1: The Cozy In-Home Session
If you have a senior dog or a dog that simply prefers the couch, an in-home session is a beautiful option for the colder months.
We aren't staging a studio set. We are using the corners of your home where you actually live.
The Vibe: Relaxed and warm. Think Saturday morning coffee or curling up on the rug.
The Preparation: You don't need to deep clean the whole house. We usually stick to one or two rooms with good window light. I will help you clear any distracting clutter when I arrive.
The Result: Authentic images of your dog in their favorite spot. These sessions result in beautiful Folio Box collections that tell the story of a lazy morning together.
Option 2: The Outdoor Winter Session
If you are willing to brave the Michigan chill, the outdoors are stunning in the winter.
The parks near Ann Arbor are quieter in January. With fewer people and dogs on the trails, it is much easier to have a relaxed session. The overcast skies we often get this time of year act as a giant soft-box, providing even, flattering light.
Plus, there is something striking about a dog against a winter landscape. The textures—dried tall grass, evergreens, and fresh snow—create a clean, neutral backdrop that puts all the focus on your dog.
Skip the "New Year" Props
I often get asked what to bring to a session. My answer is usually: very little.
We don't need props to tell your story. I want you to look at these photos in ten years and see your dog, not a dated "2025" sign.
The best things you can bring are things that provide comfort:
The toy they actually play with (even if it’s a little tattered).
Yourself, dressed in layers that make you feel comfortable and warm.
Why Plan This Now?
We often put things off for the "perfect time." We wait for warmer weather, for the garden to bloom, or for work to slow down.
But our dogs’ lives move faster than ours. The "settled" years go by quickly.
Booking a session for January is a way to set an intention for the year. It is a decision to capture who your dog is right now. It is about taking those digital files off your phone and turning them into tangible artwork you can hold and enjoy every day.
Begin Your Year with Intention
If you like the idea of a calm, intentional start to the year, let’s get a date on the calendar.
I keep the process simple. I’ll send you a personal video that walks you through everything—from location ideas to what to wear—so you don't have to stress over the details or guess at what looks good.
I want this to be the easiest thing you do all month. You just bring the dog; I’ll handle the rest.