This is the most common worry I hear, and please let it be the last thing on your mind! My sessions are designed to be fun, relaxed adventures, not strict obedience tests. I have plenty of patience and a variety of ways to get your dog's attention (plus a camera with a really fast shutter speed!). Some of the most beautiful and authentic portraits come from those joyful, in-between moments, not a perfect 'sit-stay.' We book up to 90 minutes for every session to ensure we have ample time for energetic or shy pets to get comfortable and be themselves.

Not at all. In fact, the safety of your pet is my number one priority. Most of the dogs I photograph remain on a leash for all or part of their session. Thanks to the magic of post-processing, leashes can be removed from any final artwork you choose to purchase.

Yes! You are welcome to be included in your dog’s portraits, and family members can be part of the experience too.

If you want to include multiple dogs, children, or other pets, a Full Custom Session is usually the best fit because it allows more time and flexibility.

Full Custom Sessions can take place at a location that fits your dog, your story, and the kind of artwork you want to create. This may include a park, trail, meaningful outdoor space, or your home.

Limited Edition Sessions are offered at a preset seasonal location on select dates.

I recommend comfortable clothing in neutral or earthy tones that will complement the natural Michigan landscape (think blues, greens, grays, and tans). It's best to avoid busy patterns, large logos, or bright neon colors that can distract from the main subjects—you and your pet! I will send you a session preparation guide to make sure you feel confident and prepared.

If there is heavy rain, storms, or extreme temperatures that would make a session unsafe or uncomfortable, we will absolutely reschedule. Don't worry about clouds, though! An overcast day provides beautiful, soft light that is incredibly flattering for portraits. I always keep a close eye on the forecast and will be in touch with you if it looks like we need to make a change.

Digital files are not included with the $200 session fee. Your session fee reserves your date and includes the planning, photography, and video gallery reveal experience.

After your gallery is ready, you’ll choose the finished artwork, digital files, or collection that best fits what you want to create.

I specialize in dog photography to ensure I can provide the highest quality art and most comfortable session experience for your pups. However, all humans and pets in your immediate household are welcome to be part of your dog's Session.

After your gallery is ready, you’ll choose the finished artwork, digital files, or collection that best tells your dog’s story.

Options include wall art, folio boxes, albums, desktop pieces, fine-art prints, and digital file collections.

That's a wonderful question. When you invest in a custom photography session with West Oak Pet Photography, you are investing in a completely personalized, boutique experience from start to finish. The investment covers more than just the photo session itself; it includes my time and expertise in planning the perfect adventure, the professional editing and artistic retouching of every single image to bring out your pet's best, and the one-on-one guidance during the video reveal to design beautiful, handcrafted artwork for your home. My goal is to create timeless family heirlooms that you will cherish for a lifetime, and the quality of the service and final products reflects that commitment.

Digital file options are available, but West Oak Dog Photography is designed as a full-service portrait experience for clients who want more than quick snapshots.

If you’re hoping for finished portraits of your dog that can be enjoyed in your home and preserved beyond a screen, you’re in the right place.

Your $200 session fee reserves your date on my calendar and includes a personalized video consultation to help you prepare, a relaxed photography session of up to 90 minutes, a video gallery reveal of your finished images, and access to artwork planning resources before you choose your portraits.

Finished artwork and digital files are chosen separately after your gallery is ready.

Yes. Flexible payment options with Affirm and Klarna are available directly at checkout, so you can choose the artwork you love and pay over time if that feels better for your budget.