Hey there, I’m Kimberly!

Your dog’s biggest fan and proud pawparazzi (the good kind)! I often tell the story how when my mom took me to the library, at four years old I was only interested in books on how to be a zookeeper. It has quite literally been a lifelong dream to work with animals and then I wanted to be Annie Leibovitz (famous Rolling Stone magazine & celebrity photographer), so I’ve married my two passions for animals and photography and truly love what I do.

I’ve also experienced loving and losing a love that changed me to my core. Her name was Nala. Being on the other side of that loss and now having Teddy, fuels me to give you to memories that do more than just photograph your best friend - the portraits instantly remind you about their personality, little quirks or details that belong specifically to them. I also want to create keepsakes that will not get lost as technology and our computers change - and that will long bring a smile to your face.

Enough about me --- let’s move on to the fun stuff and preparing for our time together!

Session Day Tips


Your dog only has one job: to be a dog! I'll take care of the rest. As long as your dog is comfortable and enjoying a fun, positive experience, we will get beautiful images!

Trust that what I see is very different than what you see as a pet parent. (I know it can feel like a whole different level of chaos when you're stepping into the role of ringleader in what appears to be a three-ring circus.) The most important thing is that you relax and go with the flow. Your dog will feed off your energy.

Most people don't believe their dog will ever behave well enough, long enough, or at all for me to get good photos, and even more tell me it's also because their dog cannot go off-leash. The great news is that neither is a requirement for your session! It's completely OK if your dog isn't on her best behavior the day of our session or if she wants to show off how quickly she flunked puppy school. And don't stress if she isn't sitting pretty in every image. (Can you say boooring?) If I need your dog to be in a certain position or spot, I'll let you know and we'll take our time and reset.

Your Session Day


It's your pup's big day! Your session is strictly a stress-free time. Your dog will set the pace, and we'll take plenty of breaks as we explore the area we've chosen for your session. Don't be concerned if he doesn't want to sit or if he's more interested in the sights and smells than the camera. I promise that even if it feels like he's not listening or if we need to set up a shot multiple times, it's totally fine. In fact, I expect it.

Your job is to relax and trust that we're creating incredible images...because we are!

About the Ordering Appointment


About three weeks after your session, we'll meet again over Zoom for you to view your images for the first time. You'll laugh, you'll cry...OK, but seriously, it happens every time!

Together we'll view your session slideshow, choose all your favorites, view product samples, and finalize how you wish to feature them in your home.

You'll also place your order at this time.

Before you know it, the moment you've been waiting for since we first spoke is here: delivery day! Once your artwork arrives, I'll contact you to arrange a time for your artwork pickup. All wall art arrives completely ready to display throughout your home.

Most products, including fine art albums and heirloom folio boxes, can take between 10-12 weeks to arrive, but I promise the wait will be worthwhile!

What Clients Are Saying

  • “Going from obsessive ball play to posing for photos in bow ties was no easy feat. Kimberly created a safe and playful environment that supported capturing the full personalities of my pups and I. I followed her direction and trusted her experience photographing dogs. We had fun and got great snapshots that will last a lifetime. During the selection and editing process, Kimberly was communicative and quick to respond to any questions. “

    ~Duke an Prince’s Mom, Kyra

Frequently Asked Questions


What if it rains?

We'll try our best to hold your session at our agreed-upon date and time; however, with Chicago weather, we know that sometimes Mother Nature has other plans! If the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll definitely reschedule.

My dog can't be off-leash. Is that OK?

Yes! Most of the dogs I photograph remain leashed throughout the entire (outdoor) session for their safety. I can even capture action shots using a special long line. Thanks to the magic of Photoshop, the leash will be removed from all final images. I'll help show you how to hold the leash during your session to make removing it a breeze during post-processing.

What about harnesses and gentle leaders; can those be Photoshopped out?

Well, Photoshop does have its limitations. Super-bulky harnesses hide so much of the dog's chest that it's very challenging to accurately rebuild those pixels in post-production. Gentle leaders can leave unsightly shadows or pull on the dog's skin, so those are a challenge to digitally remove as well.

Because of that, harnesses, head halters/gentle leaders, etc. will not be removed and are best avoided if you don't like the look of them in your final images.

If your dog normally wears one of these for walks, I recommend using it while walking to our location, but also bringing a flat collar to use for the actual session. If you have a sighthound or other dog that can easily slip out of a flat collar, martingale collars work well and are more photogenic than harnesses.

Please, do not come collarless!

Where should we have our session?

We can discuss possible session locations during a pre-session consultation. I have plenty of location options that I can recommend and will help you choose the perfect spot, keeping in mind both the look you'd like to create

and your dog's comfort level in various situations.

Is there anything special I should know in regard to grooming?

Your pet should be bathed and brushed a day or two prior to your session.

Brushing your pet thoroughly will help the coat to shine and remove any mats/dead hair. If he's looking a bit "scruffy" around the face, a subtle trim around the eyes will help them be visible in your final images. Wipe away eye boogies, do your best to clean up tear stains, and trim nails to an appropriate length. If your pet gets professionally groomed, make their appointment with enough time to allow his coat to grow out a bit. A few days prior is a good time frame.

Frequently Asked Questions


What options do I have for enjoying my images after our session?

Kimberly Kingen Photography sessions focus on creating beautiful, heirloom-

quality custom artwork of your pet through a variety of finishes and styles to suit you home. Whether you choose a large wall art piece to fill an empty space above your fireplace, a stunning fine art album filled with all of your session images, or a luxurious heirloom folio box, I'm there every step of the way to deliver a personalized experience you won't forget, natural and expressive images you'll love, and five-star artwork to last generations...

without the fear of losing your memories forever to technology gone wrong.

What about digital files?

Matching high-resolution files of ordered product images are gifted with product purchase(s) of $995+ or any signature collection. A full gallery

buyout option is also available.

For those who wish to share their images via social media sites, email, and personal blogs, a complimentary matching web-sized social media file of

every ordered product image is included.

How much should I plan to spend on products?

Because of the custom nature of photography and these products, the total amount spent from client to client varies greatly; however, most people end up wanting to purchase way more than they initially thought once they see their final images and the products. Please reference your product and design guide for detailed pricing and product information prior to your session.

What if I just want a few prints?

You deserve to have even small prints come as a finished piece of art, which is why l'm happy to offer them in my popular heirloom folio boxes, the most beautiful way to preserve your prints and a stunning alternative to fine art albums. These come in sets of 10 or 20 matted gift prints, which can be stored for safekeeping inside your gorgeous custom-designed box, removed for you to frame and display throughout your home, or gifted to your pet's favorite people.

My boutique add-on gift prints are available individually in either 5×7 or 8×10. I am happy to discuss options on how to enjoy smaller prints of your favorite images in addition to those main event pieces at your ordering appointment.

“Kimberly is super responsive and really guides you in the location, poses, etc. without it feeling forced. She is also really understanding of how you and/or your pet prefer to be interacted with, and turns out amazing photos with very natural and easy actions/poses. We would 100% choose her to be our photographer again!”

~ Lexi’s Mom, Sara

What To Wear


While the focus of your session will always be on your pet, if you've chosen to be in photos with him, your clothing becomes an important detail. Choose an outfit that rings true to your style and makes you feel great!

Worried about what to wear? Shoot me an email with photos (or a few links if you're online shopping). I am happy to offer feedback and suggestions to help style your session.

The Vibe

What is your location? It is uptown urban? Rural and rustic? Your outfit should complement the atmosphere and vibe of your session while still being fun, comfortable, and stylish. I will be asking you to run, walk, squat, and play alongside your pet so choose clothing that allows you to do so without risking an awkward wardrobe malfunction.

Layers

Although your first instinct may be to dress to impress, I've found that simple works best. Layers are an easy way to add interest to your outfit. Hats, belts,

The Artwork

Discover the handpicked pieces that bring new energy to your space.

Artwork & Investment

Kimberly Kingen Photography specializes in the finest, heirloom-quality products that celebrate the joy and love between you and your pet for generations to come. I constantly adjust my print offerings to find products that meet my quality standards and that I personally love and use to showcase my pups, Nala and Teddy.

With many print and product combinations available, there's truly something for everyone! I'm proud to provide you with thoughtfully curated, beautifully handcrafted products of exceptional quality-procured from the industry's crème de la crème.

Most clients typically purchase a collection, which include a combination of digital and print credit to allow you to purchase what you truly love.

Popular print items include a combination of a fine art album or heirloom folio boxes, wall art, and boutique add-ons. Each order is custom-designed to their individual style and home décor. Finished artwork and albums are purchased during your ordering appointment. Most clients invest between $1000-$3000 in their final artwork.

Small print bundles start at $510. Wall art starts at $575. Collections (including digital options) begin at $1,000. Albums begin at $2199

Your total investment depends on how many portraits you desire and how you wish to enjoy them after your session. What you choose to order is entirely up to you because you're only purchasing what you absolutely love!

The Sessions


At Kimberly Kingen Photography, we celebrate all dogs (and animals) - from the wild ones with endless energy, to the shy or reactive/big feeling babies who need extra patience and space, to the sweet seniors who move a little slower. However your dog shows up in the world, they are welcome here, exactly as they are. That’s why we offer both outdoor and studio sessions, each at carefully chosen locations that balance beauty, safety, and comfort. In-home sessions are also available for end of life sessions with terminal and ailing pets.

If you’re unsure which is best, I’ll guide you based not only on your style but, most importantly, on your dog’s personality & needs, ensuring their experience is comfortable and fun.


Outdoor Sessions

Outdoor sessions are perfect for creating memories in places special to you, natural or stunning city backdrops, and adventures with your side kick.


Studio Sessions

Studio sessions provide a controlled environment with less distractions - ideal for dogs (or humans!) who feel more at ease indoors.


Session Options & Rates

  • Outdoor, Studio, and End of Life Sessions for up to 4 subjects start at $250 ($300 on evenings & weekends).

  • Every session includes:

    • Print credit + 5x7 gift print

    • Thoughtful planning & adaptability so we can capture them at their very best.


End of Life Sessions

These sessions are always given priority scheduling for both the session and planning call. I do everything in my power to make these sessions happen as quickly as they need to.

These sessions can take place in my studio, your favorite place to go with your pup, or in your home.


But My Dog

Won’t Sit Still!


No need and no problem! I thrive on these unscripted, magical, entertaining, and sometimes chaotic moments. I honestly prefer them and feedback from my clients is that you do as well.

Rest assured, hundredths of a second (and a few of my own tricks) is all I need to capture gorgeous photos of your furry friend - and I will always give gentle guidance when needed.

While it is helpful to know basic commands, it is certainly not essential!

Whether your dog has perfected "stay" or takes the title of Best Wiggle butt.

Bottom line, you'll walk away from your session with a range of personality-filled portraits - and that has always been my preference and style over (a little too) perfectly posed portraits.

What Clients Are Saying

  • “I’d never before considered paying for professional photographs of my dogs....but I did, and it was a GREAT decision. One of my dogs is a very reactive, nervous rescue; the other is a high-energy attention seeking Tazmanian devil. Kimberly was amazing. She was calm and allowed my reactive pup to get to know her on his terms, and he adored and trusted her almost immediately. She captured incredible photos of the dogs and asked me questions and truly listened to make sure she got photos that I was looking for. Kimberly's pictures of my dogs are a world apart from anything that I could have done myself. If you can, I cannot overemphasize how worth it is to get your pets (and/or you with your pets!) photographed by Kimberly.”

    - Hollin & Chucho’s Mom, Corwin

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Right

For Me?

It is not an exaggeration to say that to my clients, their pets are more than just pets; they are cherished family members loved to the moon and back, even when they stake claim to two-thirds of the bed.

My photography experience is for you if you:

  • Value a truly boutique experience with my help every step of the way.

  • Desire natural and expressive portraits that capture the heart of your pet.

  • Appreciate tangible, heirloom-quality artwork that will last for generations.

  • Crave responsiveness and clear communication in workflow, processes, design strategies, and client support.

A successful portrait session is an investment of both time and money, so it's important to make the right choice for yourself. Whether you're ready to join the pack or have some questions, I'd love to chat with you during a quick, no-obligation intro call. If, however, you're 100% ready to roll, you can schedule your session by contacting me at kimberly@kimberlykingen.com or by phone at 312-971-0805

I can't wait to meet you and the special animals in your life!