The Process
Everything you need to know
Whether you’re looking to book a session, want to know what’s included, or explore the artwork options and collections I offer, this page will guide you through everything step by step.
You’ll find details on the session fee, how to book your shoot, and the different ways you can turn your images into finished artwork. From individual à la carte pieces to curated collections designed to make the entire experience effortless and fully taken care of.
Can’t say enough good things about Silke. She’s great with animals AND people. She clearly really cares about your pets and will capture excellent memories for you. I’m so glad we found her.
-Jason, Dumpie, Buckwheat & Frankie 🐾
Pricing Snapshot
Session Retainer
Starting at $150 - Secures your date and covers your full photo session, planning support, 30+ image proofs, and a pressure-free, personalized artwork design experience, plus all travel costs and plenty of tasty snacks! Images and artwork are purchased separately.
Artwork
Starting at $250 - From fine art prints to canvases and keepsake boxes. Beautiful pieces designed to be enjoyed every day.
Digital Collections
Starting at $495 - Choose your favorite images to share, print, and keep forever.
Curated Collection
Starting at $2,000 - For those who know they want it all, curated collections can be selected ahead of your session for a seamless, fully designed experience. The session retainer is credited toward your collection when you choose this option.
Pick one of my favorite locations, or bring your own idea.
we’ll create something that fits you and your dog perfectly!
East Bay Session
From stunning bay views to beautiful parks in the hills and carefully chosen hidden spots, the East Bay offers some of the best locations for your dog’s session. These are places I’ve personally scouted and love working in, so you can simply pick the setting that suits your dog and enjoy the experience.
$150
San Francisco Session
Grab a coffee, wander the streets, or stroll along the waterfront, San Francisco is full of spots that make your pup look and feel amazing. From colorful murals to iconic city views and foggy beaches, these carefully chosen locations let your dog’s personality shine while we capture every playful, adventurous moment.
$ 200
Custom Session
Have a favorite spot? A pup who’s happiest at home? Or an idea you’ve been dreaming of? Let’s make it happen.
We’ll chat first to brainstorm the perfect session, then follow the same seamless process as my standard sessions, just tailored entirely to you and your dog.
from $150
Your Session Retainer
includes:
- A full photo session that averages at about 2 hrs, with flexibility built in based on location and your dog’s energy and comfort level.
- Call and/or email support to brainstorm ideas and ask questions.
- A curated mixture of styled portraits, unscripted intimate moments, tongue-out zoomies and mostly just letting your pup be themselves.
- 30+ images to choose from in your personal online gallery
- A pressure-free, personalized experience where I help you select your favorite images and design artwork for your home.
- All travel costs and your dog's favorite snacks.
This retainer fee also locks in your date to guarantee your spot. It’s non-refundable, which ensures we’re all in and ready for your pup’s adventure.
Please note: Digital files (JPGs) are not included in the session fee. Scroll down to explore pricing and artwork options
" Silke is awesome, she photographed Ghim beautifully and even made me the human not look awkward. Still one of my favorite photoshoots. Highly recommend if you’re looking for pet photography!!!"
-Jackie & Ghim 🐾
After your session, you’ll pick your favorite images and decide how they’ll live on.
On average, people invest around $1,500, with many choosing to invest in wall art and curated collections.
Artwork à la carte
Your dog deserves to be the star of your home (or coffee table).
- Fine art prints starting at $250 for a pair
- Canvas and brushed metal pieces starting at $395
- Premium, framed, ready-to-hang artwork starting at $595
- Keepsake box with mounted or matted prints starting at $750
- Tabletop pieces starting at $250
- Layflat albums starting at $899
Digital collections
Select your favorite images to keep and share
- Highlights: 8 images - $495
A small selection of your favorite moments.
- Selected Set : 15 images - $900
A balanced collection with more variety from your session.
- Full Story: 25 images - $1,500
A complete set capturing the full experience.
While à la carte options are perfect for flexibility, many clients choose a curated collection for the best value and a more complete, designed experience.
Curated Collections
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.
The Keepsake Story
$2000
- A solid walnut keepsake box filled with 20 matted fine art prints
- 16" x 24" framed wall art
- Matching digitals to share, print and cherish
- option to upgrade and/or add-on
While à la carte options are perfect for flexibility, many clients choose a curated collection for the best value and a more complete, designed experience.
Curated Collections
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.
The Signature Story
$3500
- 12 x 12 lay flat album
- Two pieces of 16" x 24" framed wall art
- Matching digitals to share, print and cherish
- Option to upgrade and/or add-on
While à la carte options are perfect for flexibility, many clients choose a curated collection for the best value and a more complete, designed experience.
Curated Collections
Sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.
The Full Story
$5000
- A statement premium wall art piece (20 ×30) designed to be the centerpiece of your home
- A 12 x 12 layflat photoalbum
- A solid walnut keepsake box filled with 20 matted fine art prints
- Your full gallery with all digital images
- Option to purchase more artwork
The Process
From first hello to finished artwork
1.Lock in your date
Instant booking: Choose your session type, preferred date and time, complete a short form, and secure your spot with the retainer fee.
Once booked, I’ll be in touch to answer any questions and guide you through everything leading up to your photoshoot.
Custom: If you have something more specific in mind, you’re welcome to reach out via email or phone to chat through your ideas. Once you’re ready to move forward, we continue with the same simple booking process.
2.photo time!
Here comes the fun part, let’s create some memories.
Your dog’s comfort always comes first, so we follow their lead throughout the session. Whether they’re running, playing, exploring, or simply relaxing, we create space for them to just be themselves. And yes, plenty of treats are involved along the way. This is all about capturing your dog’s personality in a natural, relaxed way while they enjoy the experience.
3.first look
Within four weeks of your photoshoot (unless otherwise discussed), you’ll receive a private online gallery with lightly edited images. This is your moment to relive the experience and choose your favorites at your own pace.
If you’d like to turn your images into artwork, I’ll guide you through the selection process so everything works beautifully together, whether that’s framed prints, canvases, or keepsake pieces designed for your home.
4.delivering photos
Once your artwork and final images are ready, your gallery will be delivered digitally for easy download through your private online gallery.
Printed artwork is carefully produced and delivered directly to your home, or available for collection in Emeryville if you prefer. If you’re very local, I may also be able to arrange personal drop-off for select pieces. For larger collections or special requests, we can arrange the most suitable way to get your artwork to you.
FAQ
Booking & General Questions
Can I reschedule if life or weather happens?
Yes! Within reason of course. Life happens and weather in the bay is very unpredictable. Just email me to adjust your date.
My Dog isn't doing well, but I can't find a date soon enough
First of all, I am so sorry to hear that 🖤
Please email me! I’ll work with you to find a date and time and location that works for all of us.
Do I need to decide what I want to purchase before the session?
Not at all, most people decide after they’ve seen their images. If you already have something in mind (like a statement wall piece or a full collection), feel free to share! It helps me tailor the session so we create images that fit your vision perfectly.
Want to keep things simple? You can purchase a curated collection ahead of your session for a seamless experience where everything is taken care of for you.
Can I buy a session as a gift?
Yes! Visit the shop or email me to purchase a gift session.
Dog-Specific Questions
My dog is a shy baby, is that okay?
As the mom of a very shy and skittish pup, I completely understand your worries. Strangers, the wind, camera equipment, or even just the outdoors can all feel intimidating. We’ll go at your dog's pace, if that means we walk around and get to know each other for an hour before the shoot starts, that’s totally fine. Lots of treats and positive reinforcement will be distributed, and most dogs warm up quickly. If you think we need a different approach, just send me a message and we’ll figure it out together.
My dog is very reactive, can we still do a session?
Absolutely, but some spots are better than others for reactive pups. The best approach is to call or email so we can brainstorm the ideal location that keeps everyone happy and safe.
My dog can’t be off-leash or sit on cue, is that a problem?
Absolutely not! I am there to capture your dog being their wild, silly, goofy self. Thanks to modern technology I am able to capture them at 1/1000th of a second, no need for them to stay in the same position for long. We will get some photos of them sitting, but many more of them just doing doggie things. Personally, I love some crazy tongue-out action!
For safety we will keep your dog on leash throughout the shoot. No worries though, I will make it disappear through the magic of photoshop!
Preparation & Practicalities
How can I prepare my dog for the shoot?
We all want to look our best for photos, right? For our long and curly haired pups I would recommend a bath and grooming a day or so before the shoot. Make sure those beautiful eyes aren't hiding from us! For our short haired friends, a bath or just a good thorough brushing will do.
Please avoid planning a grooming appointment on the same day as our shoot. Baths are stressful and we want your pup to be as happy and stress free as possible prior to the shoot.
Can harnesses or gentle leaders be photoshopped out?
No, bulky harnesses can hide your dog’s chest, and gentle leaders may create shadows, so a flat collar usually works best. If you don’t feel confident swapping, that’s totally fine, your pup will still shine, even with a few extra accessories!
How can i book?
You can book instantly, schedule a call, or send me an email, whatever feels easiest for you. Head over to the booking page to get started.
