Chicago Pet Photography Sessions: Frequently Asked Questions

Fox: Stella Session

  • senior orange tabby cat on red chair
  • Young woman pets her senior orange tabby cat
  • Untitled photo

WHICH AREAS DO YOU SERVE?

▷ Evanston based, I travel within Chicago and it's surrounding suburbs, and head down to St. Louis every few months. I also welcome opportunities to shoot in other cities.



DO YOU ONLY PHOTOGRAPH CATS?

▷ Although I specialize in cats, I also photograph dogs, bunny rabbits and other critters. I'd love to travel to Africa one day to capture big cats on safari.



WHERE DO SESSIONS TAKE PLACE?

▷ Cat sessions take place in their home environment, where they feel most comfortable. Traveling to a studio creates stress for most cats. In addition, cats in new surroundings can be very apprehensive. For outdoor sessions (usually with dogs), we can shoot in your yard, a favorite park or the lakefront. I do not operate from a studio location at this time.



HOW DO YOU HANDLE SHY CATS?

Each cat reacts differently to strangers, especially ones with cameras! I first spend time with your cat before taking out my camera, sharing gentle words and, if lucky, some petting. Naturally curious, he will sniff and explore my gear, toys and catnip goodies. After testing how he reacts to the shutter, the shoot begins. I will shadow your cat and, occasionally, engage him in play. If a cat is particularly shy, we will reschedule another shoot.



DO YOU INCLUDE HUMANS, TOO?

▷ Although my primary focus is on your pet, I'm happy to include you and other family members in some photos.



HOW DO I BOOK A SESSION?

After getting in touch, I will send a brief questionnaire requesting detailed information about your pet and photography needs. To secure your session date and time, a signed contract and model/property release with a non-refundable 50% deposit are required. The remaining balance is due on your session date. Payment forms include check, credit card, cash or Paypal. If you need to cancel your session, 24 hour notice is required to retain your deposit.



HOW DO I ORDER PRINTS?

For full sessions, we'll schedule an in-home or virtual ordering session within two to three weeks of your shoot. This gives you the opportunity to see, firsthand, the different print finishes and custom products offered. I can also help you select images best suited for different areas in your home, and offer suggestions for photo groupings. Following your in-home ordering session, you will also receive a link to your private online gallery which can be shared with family and friends. Custom products will be delivered approximately three weeks following your ordering session. For mini-sessions, you will receive a link to your private, online gallery within a few days of your session.



ARE DIGITAL FILES INCLUDED WITH THE SESSION?

▷ After your session, you'll receive low resolution, watermarked files which can be shared via email or social media. High resolution digital files are available for purchase as an a la carte product.

9 Lives Photography answers pet session and prints questions frequently asked by clients

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