Client Resources
Getting Ready for Your Portrait Session
A simple guide to looking and feeling your best at The Dog Studio NM.
1. Preparing Your Dog
- Groom your dog a few days before the session rather than immediately before.
- Brush the coat and remove loose fur.
- Trim or clean around the eyes if needed.
- Clean eye discharge or tear stains before arriving.
- Make sure paws and nails are clean and trimmed.
- Bring your dog's favorite treats.
- Bring a favorite toy or squeaker if it helps get their attention.
- Bring a leash and collar, but keep them simple and visually clean when possible.
- Avoid oversized harnesses, distracting patterns, neon colors, or heavily branded collars unless they are meaningful to you.
- Give your dog some exercise before the session, but don't completely exhaust them.
- Avoid feeding a very large meal immediately before the shoot.
- Don't worry if your dog isn't perfectly trained — our photographers are experienced working with different personalities, energy levels, and attention spans.
2. Choosing Your Dog's Accessories
Timeless styling almost always photographs best.
- Simple leather collars
- Black, brown, tan, cream, or neutral accessories
- Elegant bandanas, bows, or accessories when appropriate
- Accessories should complement the portrait rather than become the main focus.
- You're welcome to bring one meaningful item, such as a favorite toy, blanket, tag, or sentimental accessory.
3. If You Want to Be in the Portraits
Owners are always welcome to step into a few portraits with their dog.
- Formal or elevated attire photographs beautifully and creates the most timeless finished artwork.
- Black is one of our favorite recommendations because it is elegant, flattering, timeless, and keeps attention on faces and connection.
- Other excellent choices include earth tones, darker solid colors, soft neutrals, creams, browns, charcoal, navy, olive, muted greens, burgundy, and sophisticated pastels.
- Choose solid colors whenever possible.
- Texture photographs beautifully — think knits, linen, wool, suede, silk, or structured fabrics.
- Clothing should feel polished but still represent your personality.
4. What to Avoid
Instead of matching perfectly, coordinate colors and tones.
- Large logos
- Busy patterns
- Neon or extremely bright colors
- Distracting graphics
- Very small stripes or patterns
- Clothing that feels overly trendy if you want timeless wall art
- Matching everyone too perfectly
5. Final Tip
The most important thing is the connection between you and your dog.
Come ready to relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience. We'll guide you through posing, expressions, and everything else.
What to Wear
A PORTRAIT STYLE GUIDE FOR YOU + YOUR DOG
Thoughtful choices create polished, timeless portraits that feel like you.
1. For the People
- Choose solid colors and subtle textures that keep the attention on faces and connection.
- Black, cream, camel, navy, charcoal, olive, burgundy, and muted earth tones photograph beautifully.
- Coordinate colors and tones instead of matching everyone exactly.
- Well-fitted, polished clothing is best. Layers and elevated fabrics add depth without distraction.
2. For the Dogs
- Select a clean, simple collar in leather or a neutral color. We can remove the leash when appropriate.
- Avoid neon colors, oversized harnesses, distracting patterns, and prominent branding.
- A refined bandana or bow tie can work beautifully when it feels natural to your dog's personality.
- Bring one meaningful accessory only if it adds to the story - a favorite tag, toy, or blanket.
A Timeless Palette
Start with neutrals, then add one restrained accent color.
BLACK
CREAM
CAMEL
NAVY
OLIVE
BURGUNDY
3. Avoid These Distractions
- Large logos, graphics, words, or heavily branded clothing
- Busy prints, tiny stripes, fluorescent colors, or competing patterns
- Clothing that feels overly trendy if your goal is timeless wall art
- Last-minute grooming, unfamiliar outfits, or accessories that make your dog uncomfortable
4. The Finishing Details
- Press or steam clothing and check every outfit for lint and pet hair.
- Bring a backup top and any accessories you are considering.
- Clean shoes, neutral socks, groomed hands, and simple jewelry complete the look.
- If you are unsure, bring options. Your portrait artist will help you choose.
Your session-day checklist
YOU: outfit options • lint roller • simple jewelry • clean shoes
YOUR DOG: clean collar • leash • favorite treats • toy or meaningful item
Above all, choose what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
The best portraits are not perfectly matched - they are beautifully connected.
Multi-Dog Session Guide
Simple tips for a smooth and stress-free experience.
1. We Photograph Together and Individually
We'll capture a variety of portraits including your dogs together and individual portraits of each dog. This allows us to showcase their unique personalities and create a collection you'll love.
2. Bring Separate Leashes
Having a separate leash for each dog helps keep things organized and makes it easier to transition between group and individual portraits. Retractable leashes are not recommended.
3. Bring High-Value Treats
Bring your dogs' favorite treats to help keep them motivated and focused. Small, soft treats work best for quick rewards.
4. An Extra Handler Can Help
If possible, bring an extra family member or friend. An additional handler makes it easier to keep everyone happy and in the right position, especially for group photos.
5. Don't Worry About the Time
Getting multiple dogs together can take a little extra time, and that's perfectly normal. We're patient and experienced, and we'll work at your dogs' pace to create the best possible portraits.
Relax, enjoy the experience, and let us handle the rest.
We're here to make it fun and memorable for you and your dogs.
Your Viewing & Ordering Appointment
This is when you'll see your finished portraits, choose your favorites, and decide what you'd like to do with the images you love.
BEST EXPERIENCE
We recommend viewing in person at our studio.
You'll see your portraits on a large screen and compare real frames, mats, artwork sizes, and product samples. It is the easiest way to make confident decisions. Virtual appointments may be available when needed.
1. What happens at your appointment
01 — Enjoy your portrait slideshow
We prepare a presentation of the strongest, professionally finished images from your session.
02 — Choose the images you love most
We'll guide you through your favorites so you never have to sort through everything on your own.
03 — See your options in person
We'll show frames, mats, wall portraits, canvas, framed arrangements, gift portraits, and digital options. We can also create product examples using your favorite images.
04 — Build the order that fits you
Choose one of our portrait packages or let us create a custom package around your favorite images, your home, and how you want to enjoy them.
No pressure. There is no obligation to purchase additional artwork. Our job is to show you the possibilities, answer your questions, and help you make a decision you feel good about.
Please have all decision-makers present. If a spouse, partner, or anyone else will be involved in choosing portraits or approving the order, we strongly recommend that they attend the appointment.
2. Flexible payment options
Pay in full
Take care of the entire order at your appointment.
Half down
50% now, with the remaining balance paid later.
Split into thirds
Break the balance into three easier payments.
Bite-size payments
Smaller scheduled payments can be arranged when needed.
When production begins: Most orders begin processing once at least 50% of the order total has been received.
Framed artwork must be paid in full before our studio orders custom frame materials or begins frame production.
3. Production time
4–6 WEEKS
PRINTS + DIGITALS
8–12 WEEKS
FRAMED ARTWORK
Turnaround times are typical estimates and begin after the required payment and approvals are received. We'll contact you when your order is ready.
4. Quick FAQs
Do I have to buy anything?
No. Complimentary clients may select the portrait included with their offer without purchasing anything additional.
Can I buy digital portraits?
Yes. Professionally finished digital portraits are available separately or within selected packages.
Can I take photos or screenshots of the slideshow?
No. Unpurchased portraits may not be photographed, screenrecorded, or copied from the presentation.
What if I can't decide that day?
When needed, we can provide a private online gallery of watermarked proofs. The gallery expires 48 hours after it is sent.
About online proofs:
The 48-hour gallery is designed only to help finalize selections. Images remain watermarked, and unpurchased files are not guaranteed to be stored indefinitely after the ordering process.
A few important things to know before we begin your artwork.
Every portrait order is made specifically for you. These policies help us keep pricing, approvals, production, and custom artwork clear from the beginning.
Viewing Appointment pricing
Your Viewing Appointment pricing is held for 14 days after your appointment. To keep that pricing, we must receive at least 50% of your order total within that 14-day period. If the minimum payment is not received by then, the order returns to the regular pricing in effect when payment is made.
When we start production
For most portrait orders, production begins after we receive at least 50% of the order total. Framed artwork is different: frames must be paid in full before we order custom materials or start processing the framed portion of the order.
24-hour courtesy review
If you need to request a change, please contact us within 24 hours of placing the order. We will help whenever reasonably possible. Changes depend on production status and must be confirmed by The Dog Studio NM.
Once artwork creation begins
An order becomes final once creative or production work has started, including retouching, design, printing, framing, canvas production, specialty artwork, or ordering custom materials. At that point, the order generally cannot be canceled, refunded, exchanged, or reduced.
Changes after production starts
If you request a change after retouching, design, or production has started, we will do our best to help when possible. Additional design, retouching, reprinting, reframing, material, production, or shipping charges may apply.
Custom & specialty artwork
Custom frames, wall groupings, specialty finishes, and other made-toorder products may move into production quickly after approval. Once approved and submitted for production, these pieces are considered final.
Cancellations & refunds
Because portrait orders are custom made for each client, orders are final and non-refundable once the 24-hour courtesy period has passed or production has begun, whichever happens first. Payments on a finalized order are not transferable unless specifically approved by studio management.
Our craftsmanship promise
If finished artwork arrives with a verified manufacturing defect, production damage, or an error that does not match the approved order, we will work with you to correct or replace the affected piece. This does not apply to a later change in personal preference about an image, size, frame, or finish that was previously approved.
Online proofs & image storage
If you need extra time to finalize your selections, we may provide a private gallery of watermarked proofs for 48 hours. The gallery expires after that period. Proofs may not be copied, downloaded, screen-captured, or reproduced. We do not guarantee permanent storage of unpurchased portrait files.
Exceptional circumstances
We understand that unusual situations can happen. Studio management may review exceptional circumstances individually and may offer a courtesy accommodation when appropriate. A one-time accommodation does not change the policy for future orders.
Our goal is simple:
to make the ordering process clear, personal, and comfortable while giving our artists and production partners the certainty they need to create your finished artwork correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
YOUR PORTRAIT EXPERIENCE
Q. What types of sessions do you offer?
Studio Dog Portraits, Dog & Owner Portraits, Family Portraits With Dogs, and Senior & Legacy Dog Portraits. Every experience is professionally guided and tailored to your dog.
Q. Do you only photograph dogs?
Dogs are our specialty. Cats and other beloved pets may be accommodated by advance request so we can plan for their comfort and safety.
Q. How long is a portrait session?
Most sessions are approximately one hour. This allows time for your dog to settle in, create variety, change groupings, and take breaks when needed.
Q. Can you photograph multiple dogs?
Absolutely. Tell us how many dogs are attending when you reserve so we can plan individual portraits, groupings, and appropriate session time.
Q. Can my family be photographed too?
Yes - and we encourage it. We can create portraits of your dog alone and with you, your partner, children, or family.
Q. My dog is older. Can you still photograph them?
Yes. Senior & Legacy sessions are paced around older, medically fragile, or deeply cherished dogs. We adapt poses, allow breaks, and always put wellbeing first.
Q. My dog does not sit or stay. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Professional training is not required. We use patience, treats, toys, sounds, professional posing, and plenty of creativity.
Q. My dog is anxious or reactive. Can you photograph them?
Potentially, yes. Tell us beforehand about anxiety, reactivity, bite history, escape tendencies, or other concerns so we can prepare safely and adjust the experience.
Caring for Your Artwork
Your portraits are made to be enjoyed for a lifetime. Here are a few simple ways to keep them looking beautiful for years to come.
WALL PORTRAITS
Beautiful for Generations
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth.
Don’t use household glass cleaner unless appropriate.
Handle framed artwork by the frame, not the surface.
CANVAS
Vibrant. Timeless. Durable.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust.
Avoid moisture and excessive humidity.
Keep away from extreme heat or humidity.
DIGITAL IMAGES
Keep Their Memories Safe
Back them up. Store your images in at least two locations (such as an external hard drive and cloud storage).
Keep multiple copies so you always have access to your portraits.
Don’t rely solely on your phone, as it can be lost, damaged, or replaced.
These portraits are more than photographs —
they’re a celebration of the special bond you share.
THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING THE DOG STUDIO NM.
TIMELESS PORTRAITS. • A BRIGHTER TOMORROW.
Portrait Packages
Simple packages designed to fit your home and your heart.
ESSENTIAL
5 Digital Portraits
3 8x10 Portraits
(No Wall Portrait)
$850
$680
AFTER 20% OFF
SIGNATURE
20" Wall Portrait
8 Digital Portraits
$1,500
$1,200
AFTER 20% OFF
MOST POPULAR
PREMIER
24" Wall Portrait
15 Digital Portraits
$2,500
$2,000
AFTER 20% OFF
HEIRLOOM
30" Wall Portrait
20 Digital Portraits
2 11x14 Portraits
$3,500
$2,800
AFTER 20% OFF
Framed Arrangements
Multiple portraits framed and matted in one frame. Certificates cannot be applied to Framed Arrangements.
LARGE
The Eclectic: Large — $2,000
The Square: Large (4–7x10's) — $1,000
The Memory Series: Large — $1,000
The Image Series: Large 4 Image (4–7x10's) — $1,000
The Image Series: Large 3 Image (3–7x10's) — $900
PETITE
The Eclectic: Petite — $1,500
The Square: Petite (4–5x7's) — $800
The Memory Series: Petite — $800
The Image Series: Petite 4 Image (4–5x7's) — $800
The Image Series: Petite 3 Image (3–5x7's) — $700
À la Carte Artwork
Wall Portraits
| Size | Regular | 20% OFF |
|---|---|---|
| 20" | $1,250 | $1,000 |
| 24" | $1,600 | $1,280 |
| 30" | $2,000 | $1,600 |
| 40" | $3,200 | $2,560 |
| 50" | $4,800 | $3,840 |
| 60" | $5,600 | $4,480 |
| 72" | $7,200 | $5,760 |
DIGITAL COLLECTIONS
| Collection | Regular | 20% OFF |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Digital | $250 | $200 |
| 5 Digitals | $750 | $600 |
| 10 Digitals | $1,250 | $1,000 |
| 15 Digitals | $1,635 | $1,308 |
| 20 Digitals | $1,900 | $1,520 |
| 50 Digitals | $3,500 | $2,800 |
CANVAS PORTRAITS
| Size | Regular | 20% OFF |
|---|---|---|
| 16x20 Canvas | $750 | $600 |
| 20x24 Canvas | $1,000 | $800 |
| 24x30 Canvas | $1,400 | $1,120 |
| 30x40 Canvas | $2,000 | $1,600 |
| 40x60 Canvas | $3,000 | $2,400 |
GIFT-SIZE PORTRAITS
| Size | Regular | 20% OFF |
|---|---|---|
| 5x7 | $125 | $100 |
| 8x10 | $125 | $100 |
| 11x14 | $350 | $280 |
SAME-DAY VIEWING EXCLUSIVE!
20% OFF
Enjoy 20% savings on your portrait order
when purchased during your viewing appointment.
Wall-Art Size Guide
