Booking a pet photography session is an exciting step toward celebrating your furry best friend with stunning, heirloom-quality artwork. If you’re considering a session but feeling unsure about what’s involved or how it all works, you’re not alone! Many pet parents have questions about the process.
At Blue Merle Photography, I’ve designed every step of my process to be simple, stress-free, and enjoyable for you and your pet. Here’s what you can expect when working with me.

The Blue Merle Photography 5-Step Pet Photography Process
Step 1: Booking Your Session
The journey begins with booking your session. After browsing my pet portrait portfolio and falling in love with the idea of showcasing your pet’s personality in beautiful artwork, you’re welcome to schedule a phone call with me. This is our chance to get to know each other and start dreaming up your ideal session.
During the call, we’ll talk about your pet, your vision for the session, and any questions you might have. This is the perfect time to share your concerns, whether you’re worried about your pet’s behavior, nervousness, or even your own schedule. I’ll walk you through everything and put your mind at ease.
Step 2: Planning the Perfect Session
Once your session is booked, we’ll move into the planning phase. Together, we’ll choose the best location for your photoshoot—whether it’s a scenic outdoor spot, the comfort of your home, or a place your pet loves to explore.
I get to know your pet through a 10-question personality questionnaire covering topics like:
- What’s their personality like?
- Do they have a favorite toy or treat?
- Are there any special moments or quirks you’d love to capture?
We’ll also discuss what to wear and what to bring. I’ll provide tips to make sure you and your pet are ready for a fun, relaxed day. By the end of this stage, you’ll feel confident and excited about what’s to come.
Step 3: The Session Day Experience
Session day is all about having fun with your pet. I’ll arrive early to set up and get a feel for the space, ensuring everything is ready to go. From the moment we start, your pet’s comfort and safety are my top priorities.
Not all pets are used to having their photo taken, and that’s okay! I’m skilled at creating a relaxed environment where your pets can just be themselves. I’ll follow their lead—whether they’re energetic and playful or more reserved and calm. With plenty of patience (and treats!), we’ll capture their unique personality in every shot.
Step 4: The Image Reveal
After the session, the real magic begins. I carefully review and hand-select the best images from your session, curating a gallery that highlights your pet’s personality and the bond you share.
Once your gallery is ready, we’ll schedule a time to view your images together, either in person or over Zoom. This is one of the most exciting parts of the process—you’ll get to see your pet’s portraits for the first time! I’ll guide you through selecting your favorite images and help you envision how they’ll look as custom artwork in your home.
Step 5: Choosing Your Artwork
The final step is turning those images into heirloom-quality artwork. Whether you’re dreaming of a gallery wall, a stunning custom album, or both, I’ll handle all the design and production for you.
Every product is crafted with professional materials to ensure it stands the test of time. These aren’t prints from a chain store—they’re archival-quality pieces that will last for decades, becoming a cherished part of your home.
Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
“What if my pet doesn’t cooperate?”
No pet is too shy, active, or quirky for a great session. I have experience working with all kinds of animals and know how to adapt to their needs. Your pet doesn’t need to be perfectly behaved—I’ll work with their personality to create authentic, beautiful images.
“I’m worried my pet might feel stressed.”
Your pet’s comfort is my priority. I use gentle guidance, plenty of breaks, and familiar items like their favorite toy or treat to ensure they feel at ease throughout the session. You are with your pet the entire time, so you can be part of the photos, part of the session, and simply provide encouragement.
“I’m so busy—how do I fit this into my life?”
I’ve streamlined the process to make it easy for busy pet parents. From session planning to designing your artwork, I take care of the details so you can simply enjoy the experience.

Celebrate Your Pet with Stunning Portraits
At Blue Merle Photography, my goal is to create an experience that leaves you with not only beautiful artwork but also wonderful memories of the time spent celebrating your pet.
If you’re ready to create something truly special, reach out today to book your session. Together, we’ll craft a seamless, enjoyable experience and create artwork that will bring joy to your home for years to come.