FAQs

 Photo Session FAQs

  • Booking is easy. Just visit our [Booking Page] or contact us directly via email, tom@thomasstrandstudio.com or phone, 612-812-3120. We’ll guide you through the process, answer any questions, and schedule your consultation.

  • Each pet photography session includes a pre-session consultation, a fully guided portrait session, either in-studio or on location, a post shoot image gallery with access to watermarked social media sized images and a private consultation to help you select artwork of your favorite portraits. You’ll have access to our curated collection of fine art prints, handcrafted frames, and custom-designed wall art.

    It is important to note that the $375 portrait commission fee only covers the portrait session and a complimentary 8×10 print or $190 to apply towards artwork. Otherwise printed products or digital files are purchased seperately.

    Our goal is to create timeless artwork that captures the soul of your pet.

  • Absolutely. I offer beautifully designed gift certificates. Please contact me and I can guide you through options and help you craft a meaningful gift.

  • Yes. I offer gentle, heartfelt legacy sessions for pets nearing the end of life. These sessions are designed to be peaceful and compassionate.

    I recommend location sessions for end of life to ensure your pet is comfortable.

    Legacy sessions are 50% off the regular session cost.

  • Before your session, we’ll provide a simple guide to walk you through preparation. In general, a light walk beforehand helps get out the wiggles, and bringing your pet’s favorite treats or toys is always a plus. We recommend grooming a few days before the shoot to let their coat settle naturally. Don’t worry — we work at your pet’s pace to make the experience stress-free and enjoyable.

  • Absolutely. Many clients choose to be part of the session — whether it’s a quiet moment captured with your senior dog or a playful shot with your energetic pup. We’ll work together to create meaningful, emotion-filled images that celebrate the bond between you and your pet.

  • The session fees covers two pets from the same household. Additional pets from the same household are $75 each. We do have a four pet limit.

  • We offer both! Sessions can be held in our fully equipped studio or at a meaningful outdoor location, such as a park, backyard, or even your home. We’ll discuss the best option for you and your pet during your consultation.

    Additional travel fees may apply for locations 30 miles or more outside of the Twin Cities metro.

  • That’s perfectly okay. We work with pets of all temperaments and take a patient, pet-first approach. The session is designed to be flexible and fun, allowing your pet to relax and be themselves.

    Outside of the studio many dogs need to remain on-leash. This is perfectly fine. We want your bet to remain safe and we will remove any leashes in post.

  • While dogs and cats are our most common clients, we welcome all animals! If you have a unique pet, just let us know in advance and we’ll plan accordingly.

  • Choosing the right session can feel like a tough decision, but we offer add-on options for a combined experience if you’d like the best of both worlds. I’m also happy to discuss your goals and help guide you toward the perfect session for your pet.

    Keep in mind that on-location sessions may be the best fit for high-energy pets or those who feel less comfortable in unfamiliar environments, allowing them to relax and be themselves.

  • Yes, the portrait commission fee is due at the time of booking and is required to hold your appointment. This fee is non-refundable if your session is cancelled or rescheduled with less than a 48 hour notice.

    The deposit is fully refundable should you decide not to proceed with your commission and give at least a 48 hour notice of cancellation.

  • We recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall.

  • If you're booked for an outdoor session and the weather doesn't cooperate, we’ll happily reschedule at no additional cost. We will be monitoring the weather and communicating in the days leading up to your scheduled photoshoot.

  • With more than 35 years of commercial photography experience my approach is rooted in timeless imagery, not trends. I combine technical skill, artistic vision, and a deep empathy for animals to create museum-quality portraits that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.

Artwork FAQs

  • After your session, you’ll receive access to a private online gallery to preview your images. About 2–3 weeks later, we’ll schedule an in-person art consultation—either at my studio or in the comfort of your home. During this low-pressure meeting, I’ll guide you through the selection process, showing product samples and helping you envision how your favorite images can be transformed into timeless artwork. This is not a sales pitch, but a chance to explore possibilities and make confident decisions.

    To ensure a smooth experience, I kindly ask that all decision-makers be present, as this is when we finalize your selections and design your custom pieces.

  • Yes! For every print product purchased we offer a complimentary digital file of the same image suitable for printing up to 8×12 inches. These may also be shared on social media. These files are perfect for making small prints, greeting cards and personalized phone cases.

    We also offer high-resolution digital image packages starting at $590. These packages include full printing rights allowing you to print your portraits at the lab of your choice. Each image file purchased is professionally retouched and prepped for printing. However, Thomas Strand Studio retains the copyright to all images, meaning they cannot be altered, sold, or used for commercial purposes without written permission.

    For the highest quality and longevity, we always recommend ordering prints through our carefully vetted professional labs to ensure your artwork is produced with the finest materials and craftsmanship.

  • Absolutely! I offer a carefully curated selection of fine art prints, framed artwork, and handcrafted display pieces, all made with the highest quality materials in the US and Italy. Because each piece is custom-crafted, I provide a detailed product pricing guide upon request.

    Just reach out via email, let me know your interested in more info, and I’ll send you the full pricing details via my Client Guide.

  • Yes. Every print we create is produced with archival inks and papers that are rated to last 100+ years. Our framing materials meet museum standards to ensure your artwork is preserved for a lifetime.

  • The right size depends on where you plan to display your piece. A small print is perfect for a desk or gallery wall, while a larger statement piece can anchor a room. I will provide guidance during our in-person consultation to ensure your artwork fits your space beautifully!

  • Yes! All framed prints and canvas pieces come fully finished and ready to display. No assembly or additional framing is needed.

    I will even help you hang it!

  • Absolutely! We have a curated selection of premium frames, but if you’re looking for something unique, we can discuss additional custom framing options.

  • Turnaround time depends on your chosen products. Typically, proofs are available and we will schedule your consultation session within 2-3 weeks after your photo session. Once your selections are made, prints and framed artwork are ready within 2–4 weeks.

  • Your investment is protected and you will not have to worry about this. Since I hand deliver all artwork any defects will be caught and corrected before you ever see the print.

  • Yes. During your consultation you'll have the opportunity to view your gallery and order prints, wall art, or gift items. We also keep your images archived for a period of one year should you wish to place additional orders.

    Ordering sooner ensures you receive your artwork as quickly as possible to enjoy in your home. If you’re unsure about what to order, I will help guide you in selecting the perfect pieces!

  • A fine art portrait is more than just a photo — it's a thoughtfully composed, artistically lit, and professionally finished image meant to be displayed as art. I focus on capturing your pet's unique personality with an artistic vision that turns everyday moments into timeless works of art.