We will start by having a chat about your dog and their personality. This will also give your dog the opportunity to give both the camera and me a good sniff. If your dog is nervous and you have already notified me via the booking form, I will give them plenty of space. Your dog will dictate the pace of our shoot so they’re completely happy throughout.
Depending on your dog and their personality, I use treats or toys to get their attention. It also helps if we have more than 1 family member with us to stand behind me as a focus point.
I tend to begin our session by taking portrait photos when your dog is calm and relaxed. Of course that isn’t always the case with excitable puppies/dogs that are into everything which is absolutely fine. Those portrait shots may happen later on after a few zoomies.
Once I have taken plenty of portrait photos it’s playtime. Capturing your dog having fun and those happy facial expressions. Their favourite toy will really come in handy for these photos. If your dog has a reliable sit and stay, you can stand behind me and call your dog towards the camera. If your dog can’t be off lead that’s fine too. A training lead can be used or we can choose a shoot location such as a secure dog field.
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Does my dog need to be off lead during a shoot?
If your dog can’t be off lead that’s no problem. Our Golden Retriever is always on a lead as she has a strong prey drive so I totally understand the worry of letting them off.
Safety is the main priority and leads can be edited out of the photos.
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Does my dog need to know sit/stay commands?
Please don’t worry about this. Basic commands such as sit/stay are helpful but not necessary. My shoots are very relaxed and your dog only needs to be still for a split second to capture that perfect shot.
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What if my dog is nervous?
If your dog is nervous that’s no problem. Please let me know when you book a shoot so I can give your dog the extra time they need.
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How do I book?
I currently have 2 packages available which you can book online. If you have any other requirements or questions please fill in the contact form or email vickyhowarthphotography@gmail.com.
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What do I need to bring to a shoot?
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I usually ask people to bring their dog’s favourite treats/toy depending on what works best for getting their attention and rewarding them during a shoot.
Think about what you would like your dog to wear in the photos. If your dog normally wears a harness, please bring a collar for them to change into.
A bottle of water to keep your dog refreshed during our session. I always carry a pop up bowl in my camera bag that you’re more than welcome to use.
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What if it’s raining or too hot on the day of our shoot?
If it’s pouring down with rain or too hot, I will contact you to reschedule at no extra cost.
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When can I see my photos?
You’ll receive a link to your password protected online gallery around 1-2 weeks after the shoot. This will give me enough time to go through and edit your photos.
How do I order prints?
You can order prints straight from your online gallery. If there are any particular sizes you would like, please let me know.
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Can I put my photos on social media?
Yes of course. My packages include a social media album of low-resolution photos from your session. These are marked with ‘Vicky Howarth Photography’ that must remain on the images.
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Does my photoshoot have to be at Marbury Park?
If you would like your shoot to be at another location that's absolutely fine. Whether you prefer your local park or a secure field for peace of mind, just fill in the contact form so I can arrange a bespoke package. Additional travel costs 5 miles from Northwich will be charged at 45p per mile.