About DogFacePhoto

I began studying photography in 1980.  In 1992 I started photographing models for the fashion industry and headshots for actors in Minneapolis.  I currently serve as the Talent Director and Principal Photographer for Agency Models And Talent in Minneapolis and continue to shoot for models and actors, but have now included dogs to the list of subjects I love to photograph.

I began taking photographs of our 5 dogs and noticed how the camera could capture the human element in their faces and the emotions they could express.  I continued with close up photos of friend’s pets, concentrating on just the personality within the face.  The excitement of finding what the camera could capture in their faces led me to DogFacePhoto.

I  concentrate on close shots because, just as in headshots for models and actors, it’s about capturing character, spirit and personality in the eyes.  We generally see our dogs jumping, running, sacked out at the end of the bed, so it’s fascinating to look closer.  From the shape of their features to the subtle coloring in the fur on their face and to what their eyes are saying in the photo, seeing your dog close up is always interesting and revealing.  Then, showing that with an Industrial Display Print makes a great statement and an original artistic piece for any space on the wall.

Dogs have every bit as much expression, feeling and personality in their face as do humans.  The exciting thing about dogs is that every emotion you see from their face is absolutely honest and without deception.  What you see is exactly what they’re actually feeling at that very moment.  So, whether they are happy, sad, playful, inquisitive or dumbfounded… what you capture on camera is precisely what they’re feeling at that moment.  That’s what makes photographing dogs so entertaining and rewarding.

Our pets are such a large part of our lives and family, and many cases they are the family.  My goal is to capture the personality in their eyes and create a fine art piece to display in order to honor the love we have for our animal family members.

The Photo Session

A DogFacePhoto is all about a face.

It’s basically a headshot for your dog just like a model or actor would get a headshot.  Instead of a full body shot to show a dog’s personality, I like to capture it in their face.  The shot is closer than most dog portraits and especially focuses on the eyes.  I am trying to capture the personality or character in a look or glance.

I love the interaction between a dog and owner.  I feel that your pet relates best to you and is at their happiest when you’re near. They love nothing more than spending time with you so, depending on the general temperament of your dog, you are usually next to your pet helping out as we shoot to capture that great moment that shows wonderful personality and spirit.

I set no time limit.  Whether it takes 20 minutes or 2 hours, the goal is to get the image that captures an expression that you will cherish and be proud to display.  If your dog is shy, or does not listen to commands well, or has a short attention span, we want to make sure to leave enough time to work with them to get the shot.  Many times it’s all about patience, and I don’t want anyone to feel that we need to rush to get the image we want.

The session is generally in-studio with state-of-the-art photographic equipment, or in a natural light location around the studio.  We can also shoot in natural light at a location such as your home.   Each lends a specific look to the final image and depends on your preference.  Location pricing is determined by length of time, extra equipment needs and travel time.

When considering a location shoot, think of their ability to be off a leash and if your dog is easily distracted by things like squirrels or street noises.

Preparation
Please consider any grooming that would need to be done prior to shoot.

Post-Photo Session

Approximately one-week to 10 days following the photo session I will email you a link to view the selection of images chosen for the final Industrial Display Print.  Once you make your final selection please allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery of your final piece.