Here are some of the most common questions I receive. Questions are always welcomed and encouraged! Please click on the question to expand it and see the answer.
Why should I consider custom pet portraiture?
Your pet is part of your family and deserves to be immortalized in professional portraits that show off their beauty and personality. Another unfortunate fact is that we will outlive our beloved pets. Your pet portrait session with your pet may be one of few professional photos taken of them. A professional pet portrait session will ensure that your pet will be remembered for years and years to come.
Do you only photograph dogs?
No, I welcome all pets and would love more variety in my portfolio. It just so happens that most people who get in touch to do a session with me are dog owners. I have photographed cats, horses, mice, and guinea pigs before, though! I truly welcome all pets with fur, feathers, or scales!
How far will you travel for sessions?
I’m based in Austin – 78729 and will travel up to 20 minutes one way at no extra charge. If you’re further than 20 minutes away, please contact me for exact travel costs.
How much does it cost?
Sessions for just pets start at $250. All sessions include digital files and a print release. You may also order prints and products directly from me. Most clients spend between $500 – $1,000 on their custom pet portraiture experience between session fees and product selections.
I want to book a session! What do I do?
Contact me! Tell me about your pet! I love hearing about their personalities, favorite toys, and all their quirks. Let me know of any location ideas or specific shots you had in mind.
My pet is very elderly and/or ill. Will you be able to fit them in?
Of course. I have Celebration Sessions for ill or elderly pets to capture the love between you and your pet. Celebration sessions take priority. Please visit the celebration session page for more information about what is included.
My pet is shy/hyper/etc. What do we do?
It’s okay! We’ll work with your pet to get the best photos possible. Please let me know ahead of time when you’re telling me about your pet how they act with strangers. I’ve worked with pets of all different types of personalities and as long as we work together to make your pet comfortable, we’ll get some amazing photos!
What if my dog must be on a leash?
No problem! If we must have a leash on I can photoshop it out of your chosen images. A retractable leashes are best if you’re wanting me to try to remove the leash from the photos. Another option is to choose a fashionable leash that goes with your pet’s personality.
Where will the photoshoot take place?
I am an on location photographer and in the past people have had their session in their home, their backyard, a friend or family member’s backyard, or a public parks. I recommend having it somewhere you’re dog has been before and is comfortable with. For cats and small animals, I recommend in your home or possibly your back yard.
What if I don’t have any location ideas or don’t like my backyard?
Not a problem at all! I have some locations up my sleeve. You can always send me some photos or videos of your backyard to be sure. My style de-emphasizes the background and really blurs it out, so you might be surprised to hear that it’ll work just fine for our session.
What should I bring with me?
Here’s some things you should definitely bring: treats or food, water + bowl, favorite toys, leash – both standard and retractable, a brush or comb, lint roller, and any outfits or props you want to incorporate in your photos. I’ve got a checklist here for what all you should do to prepare for your shoot!
What should I do with my pet prior to the session?
Exercise them prior to the session. This is a must! A tired pet is more relaxed and will cooperate better. Showing up early so they can roam around a bit and get the exploring out of the way is helpful, too. The day before, get them groomed or give them a bath. If you’d like, pick out a new collar, bandana, or shirt for your pet to wear during the session.
What should I wear if I want to be in the photos, too? What if I’m not?
If we’re doing a together session and you are going to be in the photos with your pet, I do have some tips to make sure we get the best photos we can get. Click here and read up on how to coordinate with your pet. If you’re not in photos with your pet, just wear something neutral-colored, especially if you have a lighter color dog. White, black, grey, navy, etc. are all great. If you wear a bright color, like red or yellow, sometimes that can reflect onto your dogs fur.
When is the best time for a session?
I prefer natural light, so mornings right after sunrise or evenings before sunset are best for outside sessions. I can make most anytime work, but those times are definitely preferred. If we’re working inside, during the day when we’ll get some sunlight is best, but again, I have external flashes and can make just about anything work!
What if the weather is bad on the day of our session?
I will keep an eye on the weather leading up to your session. My style heavily relies on natural sunlight. If the weather isn’t ideal (rainy, snowing, excessively hot, extremely high wind, threat of storms or generally unstable weather) we will probably need to reschedule the session to another day. I will be in touch if weather isn’t looking good and we will decide together if a reschedule makes more sense.
Is there a minimum print and product order?
No, online galleries do not have a minimum order.
Do you offer digital files?
Yes, my collections include digital files and they are available for purchasing ala carte. When you complete your order, you’ll automatically receive an email with a link to download a .zip file of your photos that remains active for 7 days. Download times may vary depending on the size and quantity of the images ordered, and, of course, are dependent on your internet connection.
Having digital files are a great back up for your precious memories. I still stress that there is no substitution, though, to having your photos printed and displayed in your home.
Do you offer mini sessions?
Occasionally, I will offer 15-minute mini sessions. These are typically held a predetermined location and I will schedule multiple sessions back-to-back. I don’t do these often, though, and I’ve rarely had someone not end up purchasing more photos than what was included. The Signature Session is the more popular choice, by far.
What forms of payment do you accept? When do I pay?
I currently accept cash, checks (made out to Kirsten Krupps), Venmo, or online invoice. Returned checks are subject to a $50 fee. Processing fees will be included on all online invoices (2.9% + $0.30) or Venmo (1.90% + $.10) payments and will not be refunded. The entire balance is due either before or at the session, prior to shooting.
Do you offer gift certificates or session vouchers?
Yes, I do! If you’re wanting to gift someone a session, please contact me and I will get that taken care of for you!
Do you have a referral program?
Yes, I do! Please click here for more information.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
I understand that life happens. Please try to give me at least a weeks notice if possible, but if an emergency does come up, please just let me know and we’ll figure out a different time together.
Do you do commercial photography?
Yes, I do. Please contact me with the details so I can get a quote put together for you.
Why did you decide to become a pet photographer?
I’ve always been an animal lover, so naturally I was drawn to animal portraiture. I practice quite a bit on my own dogs and I find it enjoyable (and sometimes challenging, in a good way!) to photograph animals.
Still have questions?
