RileyMai Pet Photography specializes in dog photography, but also offers other animal and human photo sessions as well (If you would like to know more about my photography experience with people including children, please scroll down further as most of the following information pertains to pet photography). Based in Denver, CO I offer sessions in the Denver area, Aurora, and surrounding areas/suburbs. If you're more than an hour away, there may be additional travel charges (although quite minimal). You can learn more about me by reading the "About The Photographer" section. If you would like to see my online portfolio to see other examples of my canine and other work, feel free to visit my portfolio at http://rileymaipetphotography.daportfolio.com/
Photography Sessions:
Sessions are taken in natural light in a comfortable location for both owner and dog, preferably in a nice sized backyard or similar location where your dog can be off-leash. If you don't have fenced yard, you could look into borrowing a yard from a friend or if your dog does well off-leash (doesn't run off), there are a few local spots that work nicely for attractive backgrounds. I would prefer it somewhere that isn't, for example, the dog park where there's too many distractions and chances to miss opportunities for good pictures. If your dog cannot be off-leash but you still wish to use a location such as a local park, I can provide a long-lead for your dog - edits can be made later to remove the lead in photos. Indoor shots are a good option as well, but make sure there is sufficient indoor lighting and try to keep the spaces that you have in mind for setting up pictures free from clutter and messes. Sessions can be booked on weekends or certain times during the week in which both parties are available.
The best time for getting quality photos is on days of good weather in the morning hours until early afternoon, when the natural light is at its best. I am more than willing to work with my clients on scheduling their sessions and the location. For example, I love to take pictures during the couple hours before the sun sets, but the fading light does have its affect on getting quality shots at times. If bad weather rolls in the day of your session, get a hold of me before your session and we can reschedule - free of charge, of course. I do book sessions year around and am against no season. :)
Sessions will last typically between 2-3 hours, because we all know that some pooches are simply camera shy or are the go-go-go 24/7 (good workout for me!). I also like to get a little warm-up time to get to know one another and make sure everyone's relaxed and comfortable with one another. At owner's request, I'm more than willing to bring along some healthy treats and toys, as I want every session to be a good, fun experience and for your dog to be comfortable. Depending on your dog's personality, we can play and shoot for the whole session or chill out on the grass, or do both! I am for zero stress and all fun. Upon request, I can do a home visit before the session, either a day or two before to make sure I'm not a stranger to your pet and everyone's comfortable just in case your furry companion is a little shy of new people.
Before your session, it would be preferred if your dog (or other pet) was groomed or at the very least given a quick brush - we do want them to look their best! Also, if your dog is high-strung and has a lot of energy, it may be a good idea to take them on a walk before their session. Does your dog have any special toy or treat that they really enjoy? Bring them to the session too - your dog will love you for it!
Do you want you, your children, or your whole family in a photo with your dog? Excellent! Interaction with your pet is always encouraged during shoots. Remember, your dog is the star of the sessions though!
After a session, clients will be asked to wait between 1-2 weeks for photo processing and developing, but I typically get back to you within a week. You will receive a set of 4x6 proofs from the session of approximately 30+ photos or a photo CD if requested, and the opportunity to order more or different sized prints as well at an additional but low cost. All clients are requested to sign a model release - yes, your dog is a model here!
Pricing:
A photography session for one dog or cat starts at $75 for 2-3 hours and includes the set of 4x6 of your dog's photoshoot. The amount of photos taken do differ from session to session, but typically they number between 30-50 as proofs, but I don't charge more if your pooch is loving the camera and is a great model! There's a few options for how you would like your pictures - either I can print what you'd like (a small, sliding-scale fee for larger than 4x6 prints) or I can provide a CD with all the pictures that you can print and share yourself!
Have another dog?
A session for two dogs is $100, and can be either done with both dogs at the same time, or have the session time split between the two. Two dog sessions will likely last longer than a single dog, and the number of pictures taken will be more also so that you will still get the bang for your buck.
Did you adopt your furry best friend?
For owners with adopted dogs, I offer sessions $15 cheaper than the standard price. All I require is proof of adoption from the shelter or rescue that they were adopted from.
How to contact me?
The best way to contact me for the quickest response is to email me at rileymaiphoto@hotmail.com for any information on sessions, booking, or any questions you may have. If you have received one of my business cards, you're welcome to contact me through phone also - I am generally more available in the evening hours and weekends.
Interested in a shoot for your children or family?
I do have experience working with people, mostly with children and members of my own family, but as of yet I haven't determined a set price for shoots. Likely, they will be the same or close to those of the pet sessions, with opportunities for enlargements at an additional cost. I do not have a studio location at this time, so my shoots will still take place in locations with natural lighting, whether they are outdoors or in your home. Feel free to contact me with questions or for more information.
