Questions to Ask Before You Book a Pet Photographer
Let’s be real—choosing a photographer isn’t just about who has the most Instagram followers or the prettiest website. It’s about finding someone who gets your vision, knows how to work with your wild or skittish pup, and delivers images you’ll actually want to print, frame, and obsess over forever.
Asking the right questions helps you avoid awkward surprises and makes sure you’re working with someone who’s the perfect fit.
Here are the key questions you’ll want to ask (and why they matter):
A peaceful morning stroll along the lake—capturing real moments with your dog in the heart of Chicago.
1. What’s Your Photography Style?
Every photographer sees the world a little differently. Some go for bright and airy, others love moody and dramatic. Check out their portfolio and see if their vibe matches what you’re dreaming of.
2. Where do your sessions take place?
Whether you're shooting indoors, outdoors, or in tricky weather, lighting can make or break your photos. Ask what they recommend for the time of day and location and review their entire portfolio (and social media) as proof that they can handle a variety of lighting situations.
3. Can I See a Full Gallery from a Past Session?
This is something I always provide for my consultations. Portfolios are great, but a full gallery shows you what consistency really looks like—from start to finish. It’s the best way to know what you’ll walk away with.
4. Do You Have Experience Working with Pets?
Not all professional photographers know how to connect with animals (or keep up with them!). If your session includes pets, ask how they handle wiggly, shy, excitable or reactive animals.
5. Is Pet Photography Your Full-Time Profession?
Some photographers take on limited sessions because they have full-time jobs elsewhere or have a focus in areas of photography like weddings, etc., while others (like myself) live and breathe pet photography full-time. Knowing how committed someone is can help you understand their availability, turnaround times, and how invested they are in the client experience, and how much well they can handle working with you & your pet.
6. Do you have experience photographing people with pets, or just animals?
If the photographer’s portfolio or social media appears to be just animals, it’s worth asking if they have experience including humans. Some photographers simply prefer to focus on the animals and don’t offer sessions with people. Others don’t have the experience of working with people to get natural reactions and put everyone at ease. If you want to be in the photos with your pet and have a particular style in mind, this is an important question to ask.
7. What Is Your Pricing For Printed Products or Digitals? Do You Offer Both?
Comparing photographers is not apples to apples. This question will often help you narrow down your photographers and make sure you receive the level of service you’re hoping for. Personally for me, I don’t believe a photographer’s job is done by handing over the digitals. I’m here to help clients with the often overwhelming part - what to do with your portraits.
8. What are your retouching policies?
Not all photographers will include or be capable of advanced retouching. Will leashes be removed if distracting? Will human skin be retouched, eye boogers or dandruff removed (especially from dark haired dogs), dog hair removed from clothing? Sometimes male dogs get a little overstimulated at sessions (especially in a studio with lights) and it’s something to keep in mind if you think your photographer has experience with dogs and will be mindful of these edits. Next question is does this cost extra? All important things to know when hiring a professional photographer. For my work, all of the advanced retouching above (and more) is included with every ordered portrait.
9. Can I Read a Few Client Reviews?
A great photographer will have happy clients who are more than willing to sing their praises. Look for feedback on their website or Google Business profile that matches the experience you’re hoping for—warm, professional, and wow-worthy.
10. What Should We Wear?
Yes, it matters. An experienced photographer will help guide you toward clothing that fits the location, complements your style, and won’t take away from the beauty that is you & your pet together.
Why These Questions Matter
They’re not just boxes to check—they help you get clear on who you’re hiring and what to expect. And let’s be honest: when you feel confident and connected to your photographer, it shows in the photos.
A few extra tips to prep for your session:
Pick the Right Time of Day: Talk to your photographer about the best light & time of day for you & your pet.
Bring Props (or Snacks!): Favorite toys, meaningful items, or high value treats can help personalize the session—and keep pets engaged.
Think Ahead for Print Options: Ask about albums, framed prints, or wall art. If you work with me, you’re not just getting digital files—you’re creating heirlooms.
Final Thought
The more you know before booking, the better your results—and your overall experience—will be. Whether it's your first professional session or your tenth, these questions help you walk in feeling prepared, excited, and confident that you're in good hands.