Through My Lens: Before the Session Begins

Mar 7
2 min read

Long before a dog steps in front of my camera, the work has already begun.

Preparing for a session isn’t just charging batteries or checking memory cards. It’s planning the light, adjusting backdrops, clearing space, and creating an environment where an animal can feel calm and safe.

I work from my garage studio. No, it is not glamourous. We have 1970's wall paneling. It's not a commercial storefront. It’s a family garage usually with our vehicles parked inside. Plus all the normal garage items (aka:junk) everyone has.

Before a session, I move everything. I clear the space. I transform it. Floors are cleaned. Equipment is set up. Sometimes, depending on the session, I am climbing ladders multiple times to get items or set a backdrop.

It takes time. It takes passion to do this work.

Lights are positioned with intention. Backgrounds are checked. Equipment is tested. I look at the space and imagine where the dog will stand, how the light will fall, how shadows will shape the portrait.

This preparation matters.

When a client arrives, I want the environment to feel ready. Thoughtful. Calm. Purposeful. Even though it may look simple, every detail has already been considered.

Working from a garage doesn’t make the work smaller. If anything, it makes the preparation more intentional. The space must be reset each time. Built with care each time.

By the time the session begins, I am already invested.

It doesn't matter if I am in studio (the garage) or at a shelter. There is ALWAYS hours of unseen work. In many ways, going to a shelter is harder. The vehicle has to be loaded up. I have to make tons of pre-decisions on all equipment, treats, toys, tripods and set up. And, when I come home ~ I am sweaty, tired, dog hair everywhere and I have to unload and sort everything. Not to mention - I still face hours of editing.