Dog Photography at The Cowshed

In this session, we take the photographs to the next level. "It's a Dog's Life" is much more tailored to showcase your dog's unique character and their life with you. Before the session, we will discuss your dog's unforgettable traits, and we encourage you to bring their favourite items to help tell their story through the photographs. Our goal is to create images that will serve as lasting memories of your beloved companion - the ones that will pull at your heart strings every time you look at them. We will also capture some fine art styled images with more dramatic lighting and crafted editing.

Sessions are £80 and are up to an hour, but can be quicker if better for the dog. £50 non refundable fee is due on booking, £30 balance to be paid 48 hours before the session. This fee also includes hand editing of your images.

Dogs give so much to us, and our aim is to give back by creating beautiful images that truly reflect their spirit and the joy they bring to our lives.

It's a Dog's Life

How it works:

Step 1: Contact us to book your session. We will organise a pre-session consultation in which we will discuss your dog'(s) characteristics and loves. We can decide whether your wish to be in the photographs as well and whether you want studio or a mixture of indoor and outdoor shots. We will also send you a link to the print packages and wall art available to you. To give you an idea, desktop prints start from £75, wall art from £270 and digital packages from £200.

Step 2: Your dog's photography session. Lots of fun and praise. Usually dog, owner and photographer are pretty tired by the end of it! We will create a number of set ups that will showcase your four legged friend and give you a range of beautiful photographs to choose from.

Step 3: After your session your photographs will receive careful hand editing and retouching. You will be invited back for a cinematic viewing and ordering session. You will be able to look at samples of our carefully chosen art products and we can discuss the options that suit you, your decor or the best gift options for others. No hard sell because that's simply horrible!

Frequently asked questions

Is there a maximum number of dogs?

Up to 3 large dogs works well in the studio space, but we can manage more provided they can share a space. They should be from one household. Please contact us to discuss.

What do I bring to the studio session?

Your dog needs to be on a lead when outside on site and we would ask that they come into the studio on one until introductions have been made. If this is an issue for your dog, please discuss it before your session and we can adapt.

A photographer's best friend is the treat tin (well for most dogs) and it is always well stocked. If your dog has a sensitive digestion or needs extra encouragement to focus, please bring a high value treat that they can have such as chicken, sausage, cheese or whatever their food porn is!

We will discuss the items that are special to your dog that may be included in the photoshoot, such as their favourite toy, stick, blanket, even their bed. We would suggest that they come in a bag so that we have control over when they are introduced or removed.

If you are going to be in the photographs with your dog(s) then please wear neutral clothing that compliments your dog's colouring. Avoid logos and lettering or fussy outfits.

What preparations should I make?

Please exercise your dog before their session, especially if they are a very energetic breed or youngster. They will still rally during the session, but it is easier if they are not hyper!

Just before your session, please take your dog on a lead walk on site just to encourage last minute wees and poos. All dog waste must be picked up by the owners. Ideally it will be taken home with you or desposited in the dog waste bin near Usk Vets on your way home. It can be left in the temporary bin outside the studio for collection after your session.

Does my dog need to be trained?

Basic commands are helpful, but we photograph dogs of all ages and experiences. We can remove leads or guiding hands in the editing stage if necessary.

What is the timescale for payments?

The non refundable booking fee is paid at the time of booking, with the remainder due 48 hours before the session. The booking fee payment also confirms that you are agreeing to our terms and conditions.

All print products must be paid for before they are ordered. This will be at the viewing and ordering session after your photographs have been hand edited. We can accept BACS and credit/ debit card payments at that session.

Do you photograph dogs on the banned/dangerous list?

Our insurance does not cover us for the dogs inside the studio, but providing that the rules regarding muzzles and leads are followed then we can photograph them outside. They must be on a lead at all times (which can be edited out).