Fine art photoshoots are a whole different beast compared to your usual pet or horse portrait sessions. They're all about artistic flair and creative expression and what that looks like will be different for everyone. The key thing to know is this: fine art is all about fine details, with a clear vision of what we want to create. That said, we’ll also try some bold, off-the-cuff ideas and see what sticks. Sometimes the magic happens in the unexpected. If you’ve booked a fine art session, just know we’ll be talking a lot and planning quite a bit beforehand. But don’t worry, I’ll guide you through it all. 

Use this guide as a checklist to help you feel confident, calm, and ready as the day arrives.

1. Clean and prepare your pet or horse
Fine art portraits are all about detail, so we want your animal to look their best. Review the other sections on how to prepare for a pet or horse portrait for tips on how to make you pet o horse look their best.

2. Keep gear clean and minimal
If your pet or horse will be wearing a collar, halter, or bridle in the photos, make sure it’s clean and preferably in a simple, neutral colour. Fancy or decorative gear can work too, but the key is that it doesn’t distract from their face and form.

3. Think classic over trendy
Fine art portraits are meant to last a lifetime - so opt for timeless over trendy. Whether it’s your outfit, the gear, or the backdrop, simplicity is powerful.

4. Plan for a calm environment
These sessions are usually quieter and more focused. I’ll work slowly and patiently to capture just the right moment, so please plan for a peaceful, distraction-free space if possible. If your pet or horse gets nervous easily, let me know in advance so we can adjust.

5. Bring what motivates your pet
Whether it’s treats, a favourite toy, or a feed bucket - bring along what keeps their attention. We may only need a few perfect moments, but those moments are gold. A short dressage whip or “touch” stick can help focus a horse’s attention.

6. You might not need to be in the photo (but you can be)
Fine art sessions are often animal-focused, but if you’d like to be in the frame - great! Just keep your clothing simple and elegant, and we’ll create something beautiful that highlights the bond you share.

7. Dress simply if you’re included
Stick to classic tones - blacks, whites, neutrals, deep earth tones and avoid logos or busy patterns. Solid colours keep the look refined and keep the focus where it belongs: on you and your pet.

8. Expect a slower pace
This isn’t a fast-paced shoot. We take our time - waiting for just the right ear flick, head tilt, or quiet expression. It’s all about capturing the soul and character of your animal.

9. Trust the artistic process
Fine art sessions are collaborative, but they’re also about trusting the vision. I’ll guide you through everything: posing, lighting, timing and I’ll always work with your animal’s comfort first.

10. Imagine the final artwork
Before the session, think about where you might hang this piece in your home. A dramatic black background? A soft light-filled portrait? The end goal is to create something truly special. Something worthy of your wall, not just your camera roll.