FAQs

 Photo Session FAQs

  • Booking is easy. Just visit my [Booking Page] or contact me directly via email, tom@thomasstrandstudio.com or phone, 612-812-3120. I will guide you through the process and answer any questions.

    A $150 deposit is due at the time of booking and will apply to your total session fee.

  • Each pet photography session includes a thoughtfully planned photo experience tailored to your companion’s personality and comfort. Sessions are available in different packages offering varying levels of time and digital options so you can choose what best fits your needs.

    All sessions include professional guidance throughout the process, a curated online gallery for viewing and selecting images, and access to handcrafted artwork and digital files depending on the package selected. Optional support—such as a complimentary, no-pressure studio consultation and artwork mockups for your space—is also available.

    Full details for each package are outlined on the Session Info & Pricing page.

  • 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 understand how meaningful it can be to create photographs during a pet’s later days, and I approach these sessions with extra care, patience, and sensitivity.

    When possible, I reserve limited flexibility in my schedule to accommodate short-notice or emergency legacy sessions, recognizing that timing is often unpredictable. These sessions are treated with the same level of attention, artistry, and respect as any other commission.

    Pricing for legacy sessions remains consistent with standard session offerings. Rather than rushing or discounting the experience, my focus is on creating calm, intentional images and guiding you toward artwork that becomes a lasting tribute to your companion.

    Availability for short-notice sessions cannot be guaranteed, but I will always do my best to accommodate when circumstances allow.

  • Before your session, I will provide a simple client 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. I recommend grooming a few days before the shoot to let their coat settle naturally. Don’t worry — I 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 will work together to create meaningful, emotion-filled images that celebrate the bond between you and your pet.

  • The session fees covers one pet. Additional pets from the same household are $50 each.

  • That’s perfectly okay. I 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 my most common clients, I welcome all animals! If you have a unique pet, just let me know in advance and I will plan accordingly.

  • Life happens, and I understand that plans can change. If you need to reschedule, I’ll do my best to accommodate based on availability.

    Session retainers are intended to reserve time and preparation and are typically applied to a rescheduled date when notice is given. Cancellations with very short notice may result in the retainer being forfeited.

  • I 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, I will happily reschedule at no additional cost. I 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

  • Within about a week of your session, you’ll receive access to a private online gallery where you can view a curated selection of images from your shoot. This gallery is available for 30 days and allows you to take your time revisiting the photographs, marking favorites, and exploring available artwork options.

    If you prefer, artwork can be purchased directly through the gallery at your convenience. For those who would like a more tactile experience, I also offer a complimentary, no-pressure studio consultation. During this optional visit, you can see samples in person, discuss sizing and placement, and make thoughtful decisions about how your images will live in your home.

    There’s no obligation—only the option to choose the path that feels right for you.

  • Yes. Any high-resolution digital files included in your session package come with personal printing rights, which means you are welcome to print them for your home and personal enjoyment. If you would like additional images as high-resolution files, those may also be purchased separately.

    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.

    You can also check out my Artwork Guide for more detailed product and pricing information.

  • 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.

  • Choosing the right size can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. I offer a complimentary, no-pressure consultation to help you consider scale, placement, and how the artwork will live in your space.

    If helpful, I can also create digital mockups that show your selected images displayed on your own walls, allowing you to visualize different sizes before making a decision. The goal is simply to ensure your artwork feels intentional, balanced, and right for your home—without guesswork or pressure.

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

    Art prints prints come rolled in a tube or in a flat envelope depending on size. They are ready for your custom framing.

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

    Ordering an unframed art print is an excellent way to ensure you have the best base for working with your chosen custom framer.

  • Finished artwork is typically ready within 2–3 weeks. Timing can vary based on the artwork selected and seasonal demand, but quality and craftsmanship are never rushed.

  • 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.

  • High-resolution image files are designed for printing. They contain the full detail and tonal range of the photograph, allowing for beautiful, sharp prints at larger sizes without loss of quality. These files are best suited for professional printing and archival artwork.

    Web-sized digital files are optimized for online use—such as sharing on social media, email, or viewing on phones and tablets. They are smaller in file size and resolution, which makes them easy to share and quick to load, but they are not intended for high-quality printing.

    Both file types have their place: high-resolution files preserve the image at its fullest quality, while web-sized files are ideal for everyday digital sharing.

    A Note About Printing Your High Resolution Files

    Your high-resolution files include personal printing rights and are prepared to print beautifully up to approximately 24 inches on the long side, depending on the crop and final product.

    That said, not all print labs are equal. Color, contrast, paper quality, cropping, and overall finish can vary widely from one printer to another. Because I do not have control over third-party labs or consumer print services, I cannot guarantee or be responsible for the quality of prints made outside of Thomas Strand Studio.

    For the best color, detail, and longevity, I recommend ordering printed artwork directly through the studio. I work with professional vendors whose materials and production standards are chosen specifically for fine art photography.

    For artwork larger than approximately 24 inches on the long side, please contact me before printing. Larger pieces often require special file preparation and professional output to maintain the quality of the image. I’m happy to help prepare and produce larger artwork through my trusted vendors.

Book/Inquire
Book/Inquire