Black-and-white photography is where my heart and artistic voice live. Removing color strips an image down to what matters most; light, expression, texture, and emotion. It allows your pet’s personality to take center stage without distraction, creating artwork that feels timeless rather than tied to a trend or moment.

For me, black and white isn’t about nostalgia or drama for drama’s sake. It’s about clarity. It emphasizes the quiet details, a glance, a posture, the way your pet simply is , and turns those moments into lasting pieces of art meant to live on your walls for decades.

That said, color has its place, and I offer it thoughtfully.

Some pets are defined by their markings, their coat color, or the environment they love. In those cases, color can add context and warmth that feels right for the story you want told. During your session, I’m always paying attention to what best serves your pet and how you envision enjoying the artwork in your home.

Many clients ultimately choose a blend: timeless black-and-white portraits alongside a select color image or two. There’s no pressure either way; my role is to guide you toward what feels most authentic, personal, and meaningful.

At the end of the day, the goal isn’t black and white versus color.

It’s creating artwork that reflects your bond; artistically and beautifully.

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, answer any questions, and schedule your consultation.

Each commissioned portrait session includes the following:

• Pre-session consultation. Either in-person at the studio or via phone.

• Fully guided and private photo session either on-location or in the studio.

• Private online gallery for viewing and selecting favorite images. Option to order bespoke artwork direcly from the gallery.

• 10 complimentary, un-watermarked, social media images for sharing with family and friends.

• 1 11×14 fine art print or a $120 credit towards artwork.

• Optional no-pressure consultation to help you select final artwork.

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, I willprovide 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. 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 two pets from the same household. Additional pets from the same household are $75 each. I do have a four pet limit.

I offer both! Sessions can be held in my 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. 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.

Choosing the right session can feel like a tough decision, but I 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.

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.