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Specializing in natural-setting pet portraiture |
FAQs
Blog (updated regularly)
Honoring our Departed Companions (2011)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What areas do you serve?
A. Based in Fairfax and will accept assignments in Fairfax City and Fairfax County, Arlington, Alexandria, Prince William and Loudoun Counties. Special exceptions can be made for other local travel - please call to discuss. Also, beginning in fall 2011, offering seasonal appointments in the Charleston/Isle of Palms/ Folly Beach and Mt. Pleasant areas of SC.
Q. How does this work?
A. Basically, you tell me a little about your expectation and your animal(s). We can then determine a location and schedule an appointment. My preference is for secured (fenced) locations so the pets can feel free to express themselves unrestrained. I have access to several secure NoVA locations that offer beautiful scenery, and an ongoing list of other excellent but unsecured options if you don't mind keeping your pet leashed. Please note, I do not accept credit cards at this time but am happy to work out payment arrangements if necessary.
When the sitting day arrives, I'll take a bit of time to get to know your pet so they are comfortable and enjoy the experience. If your pet is generally on the high-strung side, I recommend taking them for a brisk walk beforehand so they can be more relaxed during their session. It really is true that a human's energy and anxiety can affect a pet's mood (and the session). If a human is anxious or worried that their pet is not exhibiting model behavior in public, or they are too demanding of the animal (i.e., repeatedly yelling at him/her to sit or stay), the pet won't enjoy the session and this will be reflected in the photos. I have an infinite amount of patience when photographing pets so just relax and enjoy the experience with your companion.
Within two weeks (usually less) of your session, you will receive a link and access password to an online photo gallery, where you can view your proofs and make your selections.
Q. Do you have suggestions for the session day?
One of the BIGGEST things I have found is that the pets are generally fine - they smile, they play, they enjoy the adventure! But what I have also noticed is when people want to be photographed WITH their pets,the best images result when the humans are relaxed too. So don't try too hard. Just relax and go with it. Because if you are tense or stressed, it will show in the photos - I am not a magician. Bask in the simplicity of your pet having a blast and just enjoy the pleasure of their company!
Q. Who owns the copyright of photos taken?
On ownership of creative works ...copyright law is pretty clear cut and waivers are a necessity in a creative field. A freelance artist who has created a work owns the copyright. Since these types of photos are typically for personal use, a freelancer (me) may offer a client a Rights Managed relationship specifying a particular use and/or time frame and perhaps charging for the image(s) but the originator (me) will retain the actual copyright.
Q. Where might we have seen your work?
A. Well, my photos have appeared in The Washington Post, on print and web publications for multiple animal rescue organizations, American Rare Breed Magazine, Dog Fancy Magazine, The Bark Magazine (print and digital editions), Animal Wellness Magazine, The American Dog Magazine, and Pet Home Magazine. My portraits have also been selected for use in Workman Publishing's 365 Dogs Calendar for 2010, with additional portraits selected by Workman for use in their 2012 365 Puppies a Year wall calendar and 365 Dogs desktop calendar; for the Evanger's Calendar (2010, 2011 and now 2012), and for use in an Evanger's ad campaign for 2011; and in the Stubby Dog (Pit Bull) Calendar (2012). Additionally, I published a photo essay in 2007 titled "Down on the Farm", which was composed of beautiful photos of dogs rescued and sheltered by the Humane Society of Fairfax County (VA) until they found their forever homes. A few sample publishing products appear below.
Have a question not addressed here? Please call me at 571.432.0561 or email jt2design@aol.com.
