I’ve collected answers to the questions people ask most often before a photoshoot with a dog or cat: how long it takes, how to prepare your pet, whether the whole family can come, what it costs and when the photos will be ready. It all comes from my own practice at Gumerov Studio in Sofia: sessions start at an hour and a half, with up to 3 pets and up to 5 people. You can see what such a shoot looks like in the story of Olga and Sophie.
Answers to common questions about photographing dogs and cats at Gumerov Studio: how the shoot goes, how to prepare, how much it costs and when the photos will be ready.
About the shoot
Can I come to a photoshoot with my dog?
Yes. At Gumerov Studio in Sofia I photograph not only humans but also humans’ best friends, and I’m always happy to welcome guests with their pets. I give the dog time to settle in, and meanwhile we warm up by shooting portraits of the owners.
Is a photoshoot possible with cats and other animals?
Yes, I photograph cats too. A studio is more stressful for a cat than for a dog, so cats are better photographed at home, where they feel more comfortable. If you have another kind of animal, message me on WhatsApp before booking and we’ll discuss whether the studio is suitable.
How does a photoshoot with a pet go?
- When you book, we discuss the idea and the location. Tell me about your pet’s character.
- In the studio, the pet needs time to settle in: wander around, sniff everything and make sure it’s safe. Meanwhile I photograph the owners.
- I start photographing the pet once it has settled in. From time to time it needs to run around and release tension.
- Within 3–5 days after the shoot, I upload an initial selection of photos to the client gallery, where you choose the shots and note which ones should be retouched.
- After that, I do the final processing and upload the photos in full resolution, from where you can download them.
How long does a photoshoot with a dog or cat take?
From 1.5 hours.
Why does photographing a pet take longer?
In a new, unfamiliar place a dog or cat may feel uncomfortable. It first needs to get to know the place, walk around, sniff, and feel safe. Animals can’t pose for long and need breaks, so overall a shoot with animals takes longer than usual.
What do you do while the pet is resting?
I photograph portraits of the owners without the pet. This way no time is wasted, and in the end you get both joint photos and separate portraits.
What if my pet is nervous or doesn’t listen?
A studio is a new place for a pet, and that’s normal. There’s no need to force an animal: the point is to catch the moments. The help of beloved owners, whom the pet trusts, also matters. If a pet is really struggling in an unfamiliar place, the shoot can take place at your home.
Participants and preparation
How do I prepare for a photoshoot with my pet?
- Bring your pet’s favourite treats and toy: we’ll use them to attract its attention and direct its gaze.
- Let your pet burn off energy before the shoot, for example with a walk or play, but don’t tire it out.
- If your dog is not on a special diet, you can slightly reduce its meal before the shoot, so treats work better. If your pet has a special diet or health concerns, consult a vet.
- With a cat, also bring a favourite treat and toy. Sudden sounds frighten cats, so in the studio we try to keep quiet.
- Your calm and confidence matter too: if the owners are calm, it means it’s safe here.
Can I photograph several pets?
Yes, up to 3 pets in one shoot.
Can the whole family come, with children?
Yes, family members and children can take part. In one shoot I work with a group of up to 5 people and up to 3 pets.
Which background can I choose for a pet photoshoot?
The background is chosen in the studio: from artistic to a white cyclorama. A dark artistic background gives an expressive studio portrait, a white cyclorama a light, clean shot.
Can the photoshoot take place outside the studio?
Yes, I also shoot outside the studio: at your home or at another location we discuss in advance. At home, animals usually feel more comfortable: familiar smells and places, no need to get used to a new space. There often isn’t enough light at home, so I bring a flash and allow extra time to set up the lighting in advance: it’s better to plan a shoot of at least 1.5 hours. If you’re not sure where your pet will feel calmer, message me on WhatsApp and we’ll decide together, at home or in the studio.
Cost, timing and booking
How much does a pet photoshoot in Sofia cost?
The cost depends on the package and the duration. At Gumerov Studio, a photoshoot with your pets starts from €120 for 1.5 hours. If you shoot in the studio, €30 is added. You can find details in the pricing of services. It’s worth noting that for a shoot with pets I charge 1.5 hours as one hour of a portrait shoot: I understand that the actual shooting time won’t be any longer, because of the specifics of our “models”.
When will the photos be ready?
Within 3–5 days after the shoot, I make an initial selection of photos and upload them in reduced size and with a logo to the client gallery on the website. There you choose the photos you want to receive and note in the comments which ones should be retouched. After that, I do the final processing and upload the photos in full size and without a logo to the gallery, from where you can download them.
Can I order prints and photo books?
Yes, you can order photo prints and photo albums. Terms and prices are agreed separately. Message me and we’ll discuss the options.
Can I give a photoshoot as a gift?
Yes, a gift certificate for a photoshoot can be arranged. Message me on WhatsApp and we’ll discuss the format and terms.
Do you do photoshoots for a pet’s birthday?
Yes. Tell me how you imagine the celebration: decor, treats, accessories, and together we’ll decide how best to shoot it.
How do I book a pet photoshoot, and how far in advance?
Message me on WhatsApp: +359878930543. Tell me about your pet (dog, cat), the desired date and the format of the shoot, and I’ll reply with details and the price. It’s best to book at least a week in advance.