FAQ
Q: What kind of pets do you allow in your photo studio?
A: Any and all pets are welcome! All dog breeds, cats, snakes, rodents, birds, tarantulas and everything in between have shot in my studio! ALL of your pets are welcome. Click here to book: studio pet portrait!
Q: What’s the cancellation policy?
A: I require 48 hour cancelation notice, as this affords me the chance to find someone to take your time slot. Cancellations less than 48 hours become a considerable loss of income for me, so I do require a non-refundable studio fee deposit at booking that goes towards your fee, and is for the rental of a photo studio. No-shows will lose their deposit. Last minute cancellations will lose their deposit at my discretion, however I’m understanding of last minute cancellations because of illness or emergency & please email me ASAP to discuss options. See Terms and Conditions for COVID-19 cancelations.
Q: Will you discount my photo session because I only want photos of my pet and not me (or want less photos than you offer)?
A: I do not discount photo sessions. In addition to paying for my overhead (studio rent, insurance, camera equipment, training, computers/ADOBE, etc.), I also am doing the same amount of work. Oftentimes, shooting with only a pet is much more difficult as nobody is there to hold the animal for the shoot. I work very hard to make each and every shoot as creative and unique as possible, and your shoot is no exception!
Q: Can I change outfits between a regular session and a double exposure (or whatever shoot I’m doing)?
A: Absolutely! I have a changing screen in the studio and a bathroom down the hall. I encourage it!
Q: How do you get pets to stay calm during a photoshoot?
A: Patience! I will work with your pets until they’re calm and ready to shoot. I always respect their boundaries. Treats, toys and hugs always help too! I often let the pets know I’m not a vet and spend time with them so they realize I’m not a threat. Sometimes we let the pets walk around the studio to sniff and inspect until they become calm. I have a ton of ways to calm your pet down!
Q: What happens during a pet photoshoot? What can I expect?
A: I have a comfortable and professional photo studio in Los Angeles. I have an area for you and your pet to chill out for a few minutes before we shoot photos. If your dog or cat (or any other pet) is scared, you can note it during booking. We will take good care to make your pet feel comfortable, let them sniff around for a few minutes and never push them past their limits. I prefer to work fast as to not exhaust pets.
Q: My cat or dog is scared to travel. How do I keep them calm?
A: You know your dog or cat’s limits! If they are comfortable with travel, you try giving them Rescue Remedy or CBD oil for anxiety. Calming collars and sprays are available online too. I can’t tell if you if any of these things will work for your pet specifically, but I’ve heard great stories from clients about pet CBD oil. Consult your vet for their CBD recommendation.
Q: My pet won’t travel! Do you travel to locations for in-home portraits?
A: Occasionally, I offer in-home portraits and do in-home visits for timid or elderly pets. I will quote you a price depending on travel time and the kind of photos you want. Please email me on my contact page here!
Q: What kind of ability access do you have?
A: I want my space to be accessible to everyone. I do have a set of stairs going to my studio, so for anyone needing help or accomodations, please email me. We can work out what you need! For seeing impaired friends, please contact me and I’ll gladly help you into the studio when you arrive! For any other issues, please contact me so I can see how we can accommodate you!
Q: I have a custom idea for a shoot! Can I bring props/outfits?
A: Send me an email with what your idea is and we’ll see if we can make it work during your shoot! If it’s a crazy over the top idea, we will have to do a longer session. If you have hats/outfits, please bring them! I love unique pet pictures, and I want your family photo dreams to be fulfilled!
Q: I don’t have a cat, dog, bird or any animal, but I do have a plant/fossil/taxidermy/object/weird thing I would love a photograph with! Can I bring that instead of a pet?
A: YES! Please contact me so I know what I’m shooting, but if you don’t have an animal, but instead have a plant/object you’d love to be photographed with, I am 100% happy to be your photographer!
Q: Can I get RAW files of my photos?
A: You will receive fully retouched hi-res jpgs via a link within 1-3 weeks (usually within a week) of the best selects from the shoot. I cannot give out RAWS for copyright reasons, and I believe retouched photos showcase my true talent! You will receive the best of the best, and I promise you’re not missing out on the outtakes.
Q: Can I use your photos for my blog or article?
A: Yes, but please credit Danielle Spires Photography and tag @catpartypetportraits and www.daniellespires.com, and let me know! Thank you!
Q: Can I use your photos for marketing my store, my brand, etc?
A: Pet portraits are for personal use. Feel free to use on your website with credit, tinder, profile photos, etc. If you require commercial usage, please contact me!
Q: What are your studio hours? Can I book a pet portrait for a time not on your calendar?
A: For pet portraits, I schedule out blocks of time throughout the month. For custom portraits, lookbooks, corporate shoots and anything else, please email me to set up a time and date. If you’re able to come in on one of my dates, you can easily schedule your pet portrait through my online booking app for studio pet portraits. If not, please contact me to see if I can accommodate a different time/date for your pet portrait.
Q: My pet is in palliative care and may pass away soon, can I come into the studio ASAP?
A: Absolutely. Please contact me to see if I can accommodate a different time/date for your pet portrait
Q: Where are you located?
A: My photo studio is in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles. You can book pet portraits here for this location.
Q: How are you handling COVID-19 precautions?
A: I am vaccinated + boosted. Clients and the photographer/staff will social distance, and the studio will be disinfected before and after all clients. Soap and water and alcohol based sanitizer is available and should be used during the shoot. I always have an N95 mask on me, so I may wear during the shoot, and will absolutely wear it if you ask me! Go to Covid-19 Updates to see the full list of precautions and waiver.