FAQs
The answers to your questions
How do I make an appointment?
If you are a new client, I would recommend going to the Getting Started tab and click on Client Checklist. This is a step by step guide you can follow.

For appointments, go to the Calendar page. Everything is arranged month by month. For each month there are consultations,portrait/ mini photo sessions, and special request photo sessions. Choose one to see the details regarding that service.

Each service has a calendar indicating which days and times are available. Once you have selected your date and time, click the Book button. Payment is automatically routed to Paypal.
How far in advance can I book my session?
You can book your appointment(s) on any available space on the calendar in the Services section. If you must cancel or reschedule an appointment, please do so at least two days in advance.
Do I have to do a consultation?
New clients and clients requesting a Special Request Photo Shoot must complete a consultation. A consultation is intended to be a one time thing, unless it is deemed necessary to do another. For new clients, think of it as the equivalent to creating an account. If your pet hasn't visited in several months, I may do an update over the phone. For a Special Request Photo Soot, this is the planning stage for your upcoming session.

Consultations help me to give you and your pet the best experience.
Do my consultation and photo session need to be in the same month?
They do not need to be in the same month, but there should not be too much time between the consultation and the photo shoot. The consultation helps me prepare for your photo session, and I don't want to forget any details.
What if I need to reschedule or cancel my appointment?
If you must cancel or reschedule an appointment, please do so over the phone at least 48 hours prior to the session.

If a session is cancelled outside the 48-hour window (48 hours or more), the deposit will be refunded. If a session is cancelled within the 48-hour window (48 hours or less), the deposit is non-refundable.

If a session is rescheduled outside the 48-hour window, the deposit will be carried over to the new appointment date. If the appointment is rescheduled due to sickness or other unavoidable circumstance, the deposit will be carried over to the new appointment date. If the session is rescheduled for any other reason within the 48-hour window, the deposit is non-refundable, and the customer will need to pay a new deposit for the new session.
What forms of payment can I use?
PayPal is the primary form of payment. It is automatically set up with the website when you book your appointment. Cash can also be used for any remaining amount due. Any outstanding balance must be paid prior to starting your appointment. Checks are not accepted.
How will I receive my refund?
Your refund will be made via PayPal. Please look for Paws For Effect in the Activity portion of your PayPal app.
Will flash photography hurt my pet?
Studio flash is not harmful to your pet. Because the light flashes for only a fraction of a second, it is less dangerous than other forms of light. Your pet may be surprised by the sudden flash or the sound of the light. However, most dogs ignore the flash once they're used to it.
What if my pet reacts poorly to the flash?
In very rare cases a pet may have a negative reaction to the flash. We can try constant lighting, or a combination of flash and constant lighting. If your pet is still uncomfortable, we recommend not proceeding with the portrait process. We do not want to unnecessarily stress out your pet.
If my pet is too energetic or too shy, can I still have photos taken?
Yes! There are techniques we can use to help get your pet into the pose. We will keep trying until we get the photos.
Can I bring my children ?
Yes, children can be in your photos. Family photos are very important. However arrangements must be made prior to your photo session. We will go over this in detail during your consultation. Refer to Studio Conduct in the Policies section.
I need to fill out a form. Where do I get or find the form?
All of the forms you will need are on the website. At the very top of the homepage, find and click on Getting Started. A drop down menu will appear. Forms is the second option.

All of the forms can be downloaded, or dragged and dropped onto your computer. The top row of forms are the frequently used forms. Print out and complete according to instructions. The bottom row are for reference. You will not need to print them out. But, if you're interested you can see them.
What are "the forms"?
There are three release forms that you will sign before your photo session. We will provide these forms during your consultation, but you can also see these forms on the Forms Page if you're interested. Here is a summary of them.

1. The Model Release Form gives the photographer permission to take photos of the human model. If the model is a child (under 18 years of age) a legal guardian must sign the form. There will be one form per model.

2. The Pet Release Form gives the photographer permission to take pictures of the pet. Animals are considered property so there is a separate form. The legal pet owner must sign the form. If someone other than the legal owner brings the pet to the session, I must have written consent from the owner giving you permission to facilitate with the photos. I can provide a copy of that form. There is one form per pet.

3. The Print Release Form gives the client permission to reproduce (print) and share your photos. Once I take a photo, I hold the copyright They are my intellectual property for my business. This form gives you the ability to copy or print them for your personal use only. Please refer to the chart on the back of your print release for what you can or cannot do. If you have questions, please contact me.
What if I'm not the pet owner?
For legal reasons we must have the consent of the pet owner. The Written Consent Form can be found on the Forms page. Please print out and complete, or you can fill out the form during the consultation. The pet owner must sign it. Refer to Written Consent in the Policies section.
What can I do with my photos? What should I avoid doing with my photos?
What you can and cannot do with your photos is determined by the phrase,"for personal use only". Personal use is for you, your family and friends. You can email copies to friends and family, make Christmas cards, share on social media on your personal account page, make prints for yourself, use them as gifts.

Anything involving money, or if the image is used to generate money is NOT permitted. The photos cannot be used for commercial use, used as a logo or trademark, or given to any business or organization. They cannot be used in contests, online or in person.

On the back of your Print Release Form there is a guide sheet to help you. Please refer to this chart. If you're still unsure, please contact us before you submit any photos.
Can I download photos from my gallery?
Yes! You get free digital downloads with your gallery. You can download individual photos as well as the entire gallery.
Can I use my digital downloaded photos to make prints?
Yes, you can use the photos from your gallery to make physical prints. You can print from home, go to a local store to have them made, or use the shopping feature built into your gallery.

Please review your Print Release Form regarding what you can and cannot do with your prints, including alterations to the photos.
What can I do if the shopping cart doesn't have the item I'm looking for?
Zenfolio is partnered with a handful of printing labs. All of the printing labs only offer a handful of their services through Zenfolio. This is a common practice.

You are always free to go directly to the print lab's website and order directly through them. You can see everything they have to offer. I selected Mpix for my website. You can go to any location to have your desired item made.