Sandra Ann photography is located in Chilliwack BC, a picturesque community offering some of the most stunning and diverse backdrops for your photography session. From towering mountains and lush forests to rolling farmland, Chilliwack's charming rural atmosphere provides the perfect setting for everything from peaceful, intimate portraits of your pet to dynamic action shots. Whether you're looking for the tranquil beauty of nature or an adventurous outdoor vibe, this stunning area offers endless possibilities for capturing your pet's unique personality.

During our initial consultation, we'll work together to decide on the perfect location for your photoshoot. While I have a selection of beautiful locations to suggest, I'm always open to considering any location requests you may have. My top priority is to ensure that we choose a spot that's not only safe but also offers the best backdrop to capture the photos you envision. Whether it's a scenic park, a rustic field, or your own backyard, we'll find the ideal setting to bring your vision to life.

During your pet's photoshoot, you can expect a fun, relaxed and comfortable environment where the focus is on capturing your pet's unique personality and playful spirit, along with the bond you share. When we meet, I'll start by introducing myself and getting to know your pet. Your pet's comfort and well-being are my top priorities. Some pets warm up quickly, and we can dive right into our shoot, while others may need a little extra time to adjust to their new surroundings, me and my equipment. I will never pressure a pet into a situation they're not comfortable with. My goal is to create an environment where your pet feels at ease and confident, allowing their true personality to shine through for stunning, authentic photos. Once we're all settled in, we'll begin the photoshoot!

Each pet photography session is a personalized experience, thoughtfully tailored to reflect your unique vision and your pet's personality. Think of it as a relaxed stroll, where we take our time exploring scenic spots like rustic logs, charming benches, rocky nooks or vibrant patches of greenery. All areas that make for beautiful, natural backdrops in your photos.

My goal is to capture your pet as naturally as possible, showcasing their true personality and the special bond you share. To grab your pet's attention, I'll use treats (unless directed otherwise), toys and playful noises. I'll often get down to their level, whether that means squatting or lying on the ground, to capture those soulful, expressive moments. While I'll aim to get some posed shots, if your pet isn't a fan of sitting still, no worries! I'm happy to follow them around like their personal paparazzi to capture those candid, authentic moments that show off their unique spirit.

During dog photoshoot, I'll be asking for your assistance behind the scenes to help make sure everything goes smoothly. Don't worry, It's all simple! I'll show you how to hold the leash in a way that keeps control but keeps you out of the shot. I'll also have you use your dog's favourite treat or toy to get their attention (who can resist a good snack or playtime, right?). You'll be giving them a few basic commands like "sit", "stay", or "lie down," since they're used to following your lead.

I'll be keeping an eye out for your pet's body language, but you know them best and if they start to look tired or overwhelmed, just let me know. Breaks are important, and I want to make sure your pet is having fun and feeling comfortable. The goal is for them to enjoy the session while I capture those cute, natural moments. Together we can make this a great experience for you and your furry friend.

My goal is to make your photoshoot as stress-free and fun as possible for both you and your pet! The following are some recommendations to help you prepare:

While getting your pet groomed isn't required, some people like to do it. If that's you, I recommend having it done a couple of days before your photoshoot and not the same day. Grooming can be a bit much for your furry friend, and we want to avoid overstimulating them right before we start.

I'd recommend skipping a big meal right before the photoshoot. It's better to feed your pet a little earlier in the day or opt for a lighter snack. Treats are a fantastic motivator, and they can really help your pet feel comfortable and playful in front of the camera. I'll have some tasty and wholesome treats on hand, but if your pet has any dietary restrictions or just a favourite go-to snack, feel free to bring those along! Plus let's face it, who doesn't love a treat (pets and humans alike), and it might just be the secret to capturing those perfect shots. And if your pet needs medication with food, no worries- just stick to your usual routine. Their health and happiness come first!

Remember to bring water for both you and your pet. We'll be moving around a lot, so staying hydrated is key.

Arriving a bit early is a great idea, especially for dogs! It gives them a chance to settle in and get comfortable with the new environment and helps them feel more relaxed and confident. If your dog is a bundle of energy (lucky you!), a quick pre-photoshoot walk can help burn off some of that excitement, making it easier to focus during our time together.

If your pet has a favourite toy, bring it along to the photoshoot! Not only can it help motivate your furry friend, but it also gives them a little piece of home, making them feel more relaxed and comfortable. Plus, it could lead to some super cute photos!

If your pet wears a harness, I recommend bringing along a collar as well. That way, we can easily take off the harness and capture some adorable moment without bulky distractions. But don't worry, your pet doesn't need to be off leash for the photoshoot. We can simply use a leash and collar, which are easy to edit out in post-processing. Of course, if you and your pet are all about the harness and want it in the photos, that's totally fine too! It's all about what feels right for you both.

Planning on having a few photos taken with your pet and wondering what to wear? Here's a tip: try coordinating your outfit with a colour that complements your pet's fur. This creates a more visually appealing image and lets both you and your pet shine. Avoid bright, busy patterns or colours that might blend in with your pet's fur. For example, if you have a black dog, maybe skip an all-black outfit, as your pup could end up blending right into your clothes! Also, if you have a pet that sheds, it's a good idea to avoid wearing clothes in colours or fabrics that easily show pet hair.

Finally, if we're doing the photoshoot at your home or in your backyard, a little decluttering goes a long way. Clearing out some space where we will be shooting will result in a much cleaner, more relaxed backdrop for the photos.

Absolutely not! In fact, most professional dog photos are taken while the pup is on a leash. The leash is important for your dog's safety, the safety of others in the area, and to help keep everything under control during the session. Plus, many parks have leash restrictions, so it's often required.

Concerned about the leash showing up in the final photos? Don't be, I've got that covered! This is where my Photoshop and Lightroom skills really shine. With a little tech magic and my keen eye for detail, I can easily remove the leash during post-production. I'll make sure your photos look natural, dynamic, and leash-free, if that's your preference.

I will bring with me a long, skinny black leash that's easy to remove in post, but if your dog has a favourite leash, no worries, I'll work with whatever makes your pup feel most comfortable!

During the shoot, I'll kindly ask you to help behind the scenes by holding the leash just out of view. This will help maintain control, keep your dog happy (because they love and want to be close to you), and direct their attention when needed. It's all about ensuring your pup has a safe, carefree time while I capture those perfect shots!

When it comes to shooting off-leash, that'll only happen if it's safe, allowed at our location such as an off-leash park, and you're 100% comfortable with your dog being off-leash and trusting in their recall.

Absolutely, with a little time and patience, I can capture stunning photos that really show off your dog's unique, adorable personality. For shy pups, it might be best to pick a location they're familiar with to help ease any nerves or stress they might be feeling. Arriving a bit early gives your pup a chance to settle in and get comfortable with the surroundings before we dive into the photoshoot.

When it comes to shy dogs, I like to take things slow. I won't rush into introductions. I'll spend a little time chatting with you first so your dog can get used to my presence at their own pace. If they're feeling camera shy, no worries! I can use a long lens to keep my distance while still snapping amazing shots. And of course, we can take breaks whenever they need to, there is no pressure.

My goal is to make sure your pup has a positive experience while creating beautiful, lasting memories for you to cherish. Having you assist me during the session, will help them feel more comfortable, confident, and secure. I might ask you to hold their leash, give them some tasty treats, play with their favourite toy, and give them voice commands. Anything that helps your pup relax, have fun and sets them up for success.

Absolutely! A day at the park is all about adventure and excitement and why wouldn't your pup be thrilled for some fun? If your dog tends to get a little extra hyper in new places, I'd recommend a pre-session walk or some playtime to help burn off some energy. Arriving a bit early will also give your pup time to explore, sniff around and get comfy with all the new sights and sounds before we start snapping photos.

Instead of trying to get your excitable pup to sit still, we'll let them embrace their natural energy. The result will be joyful, spontaneous photos that really capture their personality. I'll provide a long leash to keep them safe and in control, and don't worry, I'll be able to remove it during post-production editing, so it doesn't appear in the final shots.

And as for all that action, don't worry about missing a thing! My camera has a high shutter speed, so I'll catch all the running, jumping, and playful shenanigans in real-time. Once your pup's energy level starts to settle, we can ease into some more posed shots.

Throughout the photoshoot, I'll ask for your help to hold the leash, give some tasty treats, play with their favourite toy and use voice commands to help grab their attention. It's all about keeping things fun, relaxed, and letting your pup shine in their natural element while being themselves.

Yes, absolutely, and I completely understand your concerns. I had an anxious and reactive dog myself, my best friend, for 16 incredible years. Jake was a sweet soul, but after being attacked by another dog when he was just a year old, he developed a deep fear of other dogs. It left him with emotional scars that we worked through together every single day. Despite his desire to make doggy friends, he simply couldn't trust or tolerate them, no matter how much I worked with him, and that was perfectly okay. Jake wasn't a "bad" dog, he was an amazing companion, and I loved him deeply. He just needed a little extra care and understanding. I helped him manage his anxiety by being patient, paying attention to his triggers, watching for his cues and creating a calm routine that kept him feeling safe, happy and loved.

If your dog is anxious meeting new people or reacts with fear or aggression towards other dogs, I understand, and I am committed to creating an environment that helps your pup feel comfortable and set up for success. During our pre-session consultation, we'll discuss your dog's sensitivities and triggers and tailor your photoshoot accordingly.

To help ease their nerves, I recommend holding the session in a familiar location, somewhere your dog enjoys, like a regular walking spot or even in your own backyard. I also suggest taking your dog on a pre-session walk or have some a play time to help release any nervous energy. Arriving at the location early will allow your dog time to get accustomed to the environment's sights, sounds, and smells, all of which can be overwhelming.

If your dog is uncomfortable around new people, I will always respect their boundaries and give them plenty of space. To start, I'll spend some time talking with you, allowing your dog time to adjust to my presence at their own pace. If your dog wants to sniff me, that is perfectly fine, I understand their curiosity and will never try to touch or engage with them unless they show clear signs of accepting me.

During the photoshoot, your dog will remain on a leash for their safety and control, but don't worry, I'll edit out the leash in post-production. I'll use a longer lens to maintain a comfortalble distance, and I may also use the LCD screen so that I don't hide my face behind the camera. Your involvement is key to your dog's comfort, so I'll ask you to help with holding the leash, giving high value treats and verbal cues.

I'll take breaks as often as needed, ensuring your dog's comfort is a priority. While I'll always be vigilant for signs of stress, you know your dog best, so please let me know if you sense they need a break or seems overwhelmed to you. And please know, I'll never ask you or your dog to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. With patience, understanding, and a calm environment, I'm confident we can capture beautiful, professional photos of your dog, no matter their challenges.

It's totally understandable if your dog isn't the most cooperative when it comes to sitting still for photos. This is an adventure. There are new sights, sounds and smells to explore, and for many dogs, that's just too exciting to sit still. And if you have a new puppy, well, they're probably still figuring out the whole "sit" thing and getting distracted by literally everything. But don't worry, I'm all about patience and I'm confident we can capture some beautiful shots that you'll love.

One of the best things you can do is give your dog a little head start by taking them for a pre-session walk. That extra bit of exercise helps burn off some of their energy and makes them a little more willing to focus. It also helps if you arrive a little early to the shoot location, so your dog can get comfortable with their surroundings. Letting them sniff around and explore the area, will help them settle in and feel more at ease once we begin our session.

During the shoot, I'll keep your dog on a leash-not only for their safety but also to help prevent any surprise zoomies. And don't worry, I'll be able to remove the leash during post-production editing, so it doesn't appear in the final shots. If they are feeling a little rambunctious, don't worry, we can use treats and their favourite toys to encourage them to stay in one spot when they're feeling a bit wiggly. And if your dog's energy is off the charts, that's actually a great opportunity for some action shots. We can embrace their excitement and capture the fun, joyful energy in spontaneous photos that will make you smile.

As we go through the session, I will ask for your help with a few things such as holding the leash, offering treats, or playing with a toy. Your involvement helps your dog feel more secure and encourages them to relax and enjoy the experience. Plus, the more fun we have together, the better the photos will turn out.

Rest assured, your dog doesn't need to have any formal training to look great on camera! I'm happy to work with dogs of all experience levels. While knowledge of commands like "sit" and "stay" can be helpful, they are not necessary, especially when it comes to puppies who are just in their learning phase. During the photoshoot, your dog will be on a leash, this ensures their safety and helps manage their energy, even if they are still working on their training. Don't worry, I'll take care of editing out the leash in post-production.

During dog photoshoot, I'll be asking for your assistance behind the scenes to help make sure everything goes smoothly. Don't worry, It's all simple! I'll show you how to hold the leash in a way that maintains control but keeps you out of the shot. I'll also have you use your dog's favourite treat or toys to grab their attention and help keep them focused. With a bit of patience, some fun and lots of wiggle room for their big personality, I'm sure we'll capture the perfect shots that show off just how awesome your pup truly is!

Absolutely, and I completely understand, some of us are just more comfortable behind the camera than in front of it, and I'm all for letting your pet be the true star of the show.

That said, even though you might not want to appear in the photos, I'll still need a little help from you behind the scenes. For example, if we're doing a dog shoot, I will ask you to hold the leash in a certain way while I snap away. Don't worry, I will make sure you won't end up in any of the shots, and I can easily edit out the leash during post-production.

I'll also need your help keeping your pet's attention. You might be handing out treats or playing with their favourite toy to get them to look just right. While you might not be in the photos themselves, you will feel like a part of the whole process.

I will never pressure you to be in any of the pictures. However, during your session, you might find you have a change of heart and want to jump in for a few quick shots with your little buddy. Sometimes, even if it feels a little uncomfortable in the moment, those photos of you and your pet can turn into memories you'll cherish forever. If you find you're unsure about being in the photos, we can always capture some moments highlighting your connection without you being the focus of the shot. For example, I can take a shot of your dog sitting next to your legs, looking up lovingly, it's a beautiful image, and keeps you out of the spotlight.

If you think you might want to be in a photo or two, it's a good idea to dress as though you'll be in them. Wearing neutral, earthy tones that complement your pet's fur, and the surrounding environment work best. Avoiding bright colours or busy patterns will help keep the focus on your pet rather than what you're wearing. Also, if your pet has light-coloured fur and tends to shed a lot, you might want to choose clothing that won't show whose pesky stray hairs.

Absolutely! It's an honour to capture the special bond you share with your pet. These sessions are all about celebrating your deep connection by showing the love, joy and the little moments that make your relationship so meaningful. My goal is to create timeless, heartfelt images that reflect your unique story and bring a smile to your face every time you see them. I can't wait to help you preserve these memories in a way that feels natural, genuine and true to who you are together.

During the photoshoot, I'll capture a variety of shots-both poses and candid-so we can highlight the genuine connection between you and your pet. During our pre-session consultation, I encourage you to share any specific ideas or poses you'd like to try. On the day of the shoot, I'll guide you with easy-to-follow directions, ensuring you feel comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera allowing us to create beautiful, authentic photos.

Preparing for a photoshoot with your pet is an exciting experience! While your pet will undoubtedly be the star of the session, your outfit does play an important role, especially if you'll be stepping into the frame. But no need to worry, I'm here to offer some guidance that may make outfit choices a bit easier and help you feel comfortable and confident for the big moment.

To start, neutral tones are always a good bet. Earthy shades like browns, greens, and blues tend to blend with natural environments and won't compete with your pet's fur. If there is more than one person being photographed with your pet, try to coordinate your outfits in a way that complements each other, to create a cohesive balanced look.

While we're all for personality, try to avoid wearing bright, bold colours or busy patterns as they can sometimes distract from your pet. Subtle patterns, like soft florals and thin stripes, can add a touch of interest without overpowering the image. I also recommend avoiding tank tops and spaghetti straps. And don't forget about wrinkles, which tend to show up in photographs.

Consider your pet's fur colour when choosing your outfit. For instance, if you have a black dog, try to avoid an all-black outfit as it may cause your dog to blend into your clothes. The same goes for white or light-coloured pets, some contrast can make sure they stand out.

For outdoor shoots, options like comfortable jeans, neutral-coloured pants, or flowing skirts look nice. If the weather calls for it, layering with a stylish jacket or vest not only adds variety to your look but also gives you the flexibility to change things up mid-session.

Fit is important too. Fitted clothing generally photograph better than overly baggy pieces, but it's equally important to feel comfortable in what you're wearing. Shoes can easily become a focal point in photos, so aim for darker tones to avoid them drawing attention away from you and your pet. For example, white sneakers can sometimes catch the eye more than we'd like, so darker shoes are usually a good choice.

A few other details to keep in mind include avoid wearing ball caps that could cast shadows on your face, and if you wear glasses, give them a quick clean before the shoot to ensure no fingerprints show up on the photos. Lastly, make sure to empty your pockets and adjust any jewelry to avoid distractions.

If your pet tends to shed, it's a good idea to choose your clothing with that in mind. For example, darker clothes paired with a light-coloured dog (or vice versa) can make shedding more noticeable. While some of this can be edited out later, it's always easier to avoid the issue in the first place. But don't worry-I've got you covered! I always bring a lint brush to my sessions, just in case.

Please note, these suggestions are simply here to offer some direction, as I know choosing the right outfit can sometimes feel like a challenge. But at the end of the day, these photos should reflect you and the unique relationship you have with your pet. So, while these tips are helpful, remember to stay true to your personal style. After all, the best photos come when you're feeling comfortable and authentic.

For most dogs and cats, I recommend a clean, simple, flat collar. It's classic and keeps things neat. However, if your pet has a favourite collar that adds a little extra flair, we can absolutely incorporate that too.

Bowties and bandanas can be a great way to add extra character and charm to your pet's photos! They're a fun touch that can really highlight your pet's personality. If your pet isn't a fan of being fussed with, you might want to skip them, but feel free to bring them along just in case your furry friend is in the mood for a little extra style! Keep in mind, they might need a little adjustment throughout the session to keep them looking picture-perfect.

For safety and control, your pet will be on a long leash during the session. But don't worry, the leash will be carefully edited out during post-production, so it won't appear in your final images.

If you'd prefer your pet to be photographed without a collar, we can absolutely discuss that during your pre-session consultation. This is usually best suited for secure environments like off-leash parks, fenced backyards and the studio.

In some cases, we can also remove the collar during post-production editing. However, keep in mind that collars often reflect your pet's personality and can add character to the final images. It's all about finding the right balance between safety, aesthetics and what feels most authentic to you and your pet.

If there are any other items you'd like your pet to wear during the photoshoot, please don't hesitate to bring it up during our pre-session consultation. We'll work together to ensure we bring your vision to life and ensure your pet's personality truly shines through!

As we get closer to your photoshoot, I'll be keeping an eye on the local weather report. If it looks like rain is forecasted for our session date, I'll reach out to you in advance to discuss rescheduling. We'll work together to find a new date that works for both of us.

While I don't shoot in the rain, cloudy days can be fantastic for photos! The soft, diffused light from the clouds acts like a natural soft box, helping to create even, flattering light without harsh shadows, which can result in beautiful photos.

If you've scheduled an end-of-life session for your pet and they pass before the session date, I want you to know that I truly understand how challenging this time is. From personal experience, I know the emotional weight of such a loss, and I'll refund your session deposit in full.

If you need to cancel due to an illness or a personal emergency, please don't hesitate to reach out. We'll reschedule for another mutually agreed upon date that works for both of us.

For other cancellations, please note that the session deposit is non-refundable. This helps cover the time and preparation I've invested into your session. However, if there are extenuating circumstances, please let me know, and we'll work together to find a solution.

Yes, your session can include up to two pets and two people. If you'd like to include additional pets or people, we can certainly accommodate that for an extra fee to cover the extra time and attention. Please let me know in advance so we can adjust the session details accordingly.

Absolutely, I do! The bonds we share with all our various pets, is truly special, and deserves to be celebrated with beautiful, lasting images that preserve those memories forever. While my primary focus is on dogs and cats, I welcome the opportunity to photograph all types of pets, regardless of shape or size. Whether it's a little lizard, rat, guinea pig, rabbit, horse or other cherished companion, I'm eager to help capture the essence of that connection.

If you'd like to see examples of work I've done with other types of pets, please feel free to check out my portfolio under "Other Pets."

So, if you have a unique pet you'd like to have photographed, don't hesitate to contact me! We can discuss whether I'm the right photographer to capture your pet's special moments.

I completely understand how eager you must be to see your pet's portraits, and I am equally eager to share them with you! Here is what you can expect:

• Initial Proofs: You'll receive your first proofs approximately one week after the session. These are lightly edited, low-resolution, watermarked previews that give you a glimpse of the magic we've captured. Along with these, I'll include a few fully retouched sample images to show you the level of detail and refinement you can expect in the final photos.
• Selection Process: In your private online gallery, you can browse through the proofs and select your favourite images. This is a great time to leave any comments or preferences you may have for the final edits.
• Final Edits: Once you've made your selections, I'll begin the final retouching. This is where the magic will truly happen. The fully edited, high-resolution images will be ready for you within 7 to 10 days after I receive your selection.