Are gift certificates available?
Yes! Gifting a Bright Eyes Photo Session offers you three choices of Photo Collections to give as a unique gift that your family, friends and staff will genuinely enjoy. I can send the colorful gift card digitally. I can also mail it to you or the receipient. You can also order print and digital gifts from the A La Carte section of offerings. See your choices here.
Is it a problem if my dog can’t be off leash?
No problem! I practice safety first! And many locations require leashes. Your dog should be on fixed leash for the safety of all. I recommend that you bring your dog on a fixed 6-foot thin leash. I always have a thin leash as well as a 40-foot-long leash for chasing balls and goofing off. Afterwards, I carefully remove the leash and the person holding the leash in Photoshop. If your dog usually wears a harness, please bring the dog in harness, and remove it for a fixed collar once on location. I’m not able to remove harnesses during editing. If you’d like photos with your dog in their harness, it’s perfectly fine to leave it on.
What if my puppy or dog doesn’t listen to commands?
Your puppy or dog can still be a rock star and ace their photo session! With my experience focusing on dog photography, I bring a bag full of Treats, Noisemakers and Toys to capture their expressions and personality. My camera is incredibly fast at 20 frames per second to capture both formal and fun moments.
I’ve also photographed hundreds of shelter and homeless dogs and cats who often don’t know commands so this is not a new experience for me. I’ve captured many sweet faces who are adopted into their forever homes.
Is there a waiting time for planning a photo session?
Waiting times vary by season with Spring and Fall being the busiest. It is best to contact me a month or at least a few weeks before the desired date. When it comes to a session with a young puppy or an old dog, I will do my absolute best to accommodate you as quickly as possible.
What happens if I can’t make it to the session or inclement weather is predicted for the day of the photo session?
I’m flexible! Life happens. Just let me know as soon as possible and we can reschedule as session fees are non-refundable. As for bad weather, a few days before the start of the photo session, I look at what weather is predicted. In case of rain/snow or excessive heat/cold, I will contact you to schedule a new date. For special occasions that are only available for a limited period (cherry blossoms, bluebells, fall leaves, for example), I will ask you about scheduling an alternative date in advance so that it is still possible to hold the session before the end of the blooming period.
How should I get my dog or cat ready for the session?
Brush and clean the eyes of your pet the day before or day of the session. Especially trim around your dog’s eyes as appropriate. Bathe or groom them the week before if you’d like. If you have a high energy puppy or dog, exercise them the day of the session so that they have worked out lots of energy!
What should I bring to a photo session?
Always make sure you have a fixed leash, favorite special treats, and water for your dog. It’s always useful to bring things with which you can get the dog’s attention. Think of his or her favorite toy, ball or frisbee. Consider bringing a favorite collar, accessory, bowtie, bandanna or seasonal scarf for some of the photos. I will have Treats, Noisemakers and Toys as well. I often use a picnic blanket and if you have a favorite one, please bring it. It’s fun to have watermelon in the spring/summer and apples in the fall/winter to feed your dog for fun, casual photos!
What to wear?
I advise wearing comfy clothes as we’ll be moving around a lot, sitting/kneeling on grass/picnic blankets. But you should dress in whatever ‘look’ you’d like to have. While I’m not a fashion maven, I find that muted colors like pastels that compliment or do not clash with your dog’s fur are best. Avoid black and white generally and especially if your dog has black/white fur. No vibrant logos. Iron shirts and sweaters or be as wrinkle-free as possible. It’s great to remove cell phones/wallets from front pockets for photos. I will remove stray spots and hairs in Photoshop.
For your dog or cat, feel free to bring their favorite outfit, bandanna or collar.
Is it possible to order wall art or other prints?
Yes! I sell a wide variety of framed prints, bamboo panels, canvas wraps, image folios, triptychs (3 matted 5x7s in a frame), and framed metal prints. Check out the products and prices that are part of Collections and A La Carte here
Do you photograph Cats?
YES! While cats are more independent-minded than dogs, they are a joy to photograph in the safety of your home. The goal is to capture the nature and spirit of your cat! The most important thing is that we have a relaxed, happy cat in their comfortable spots. I will bring lots of patience and stay as long as it takes to get you wonderful images!
Favorite treats and toys are essential. I love working with your cat in natural light from windows or doors so the time of the session may vary depending on the light. I often use indoor flash and modify the light to be as low as possible with the flash facing the ceiling. See my Cat Portfolio here:
“Julie was so nice and patient with our kitties who took a few minutes to warm up to the camera. It’s obvious she’s an animal lover and a talented photographer! We love our photos!”
– Caitlin Lukacs
