Frequently Asked Questions
— THE SESSIONS —
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Most sessions take place along the San Diego coast in Carlsbad, Cardiff, La Jolla Shores, and other select coastal locations depending on the time of year, tides, and light. I research each location carefully so you just show up and enjoy the experience. For Legacy sessions, I'm happy to work in any location where your dog feels most comfortable.
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It depends on the experience you choose. The Collection and Gallery sessions run 60-90 minutes. The Masterpiece is 30 minutes. Tide and Tails petite sessions are 45 minutes. Legacy sessions are paced entirely around your dog's comfort — there's no clock.
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Not at all. Of all the dogs I've photographed over the years, most just know the basics — sit stay come (if that). Whether your dog arrives like they own the beach or stays close for reassurance — both are perfect. Your dog doesn't need to perform. They just need to be themselves.
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Absolutely — and most clients are glad they did. The connection between you and your dog is often the most powerful thing in the frame. Dogs and their humans are always welcome together.
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No problem at all. Most dogs are on-lead during a session. Collars and leads are edited out where it looks natural to do so.
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Dogs are my primary focus, but I have photographed horses, cats, and birds. I welcome all companion animals. If you have something in mind reach out and let's talk
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My current sessions are focused on the San Diego coast and south Orange County coast — but I've worked across a wide range of locations and environments over the years. If you have something specific in mind, let's have a conversation. You can also explore my portfolio for a broader look at the range of work.
— THE EXPERIENCE —
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After booking you'll receive a planning consultation where we cover everything — location, timing, wardrobe, and what to expect on the day. You won't show up unprepared.
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We'll cover this in your planning consultation. Generally — layers, coastal tones, and bare feet or comfortable shoes you don't mind getting sandy or wet. Avoid busy patterns or logos that distract from the connection in the frame.
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I monitor weather and tides closely before every session. If conditions aren't right we'll fall back to our agreed upon reserve date. We’ll always try for a day and time that gives us the best possible light and experience.
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It depends on the session type. Seasonal sessions should be booked right away. For standard sessions I recommend at least two -three weeks in advance to allow for planning and pet grooming as needed. Legacy sessions are accommodated as quickly as possible — please reach out immediately and note the urgency.
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A reservation fee is required to hold your session date. This fee is applied as a credit toward your final purchase. Specific reservation fees vary by session type and are listed on each offering page.
— THE IMAGES —
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It depends on your session. The Collection includes a gallery of 50+ images to review with your favorites preserved in a keepsake package. The Gallery delivers up to 40 fully edited high-resolution digital images. The Masterpiece delivers one competition-level refined portrait. Seasonal or special offer petite sessions include a handful of images with upgrade options available.
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Gallery delivery timelines are discussed during your planning consultation. Every portrait is carefully refined — the editing process takes time and that time is worth it.
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Digital images are delivered through your personal online gallery where you can download directly. Physical keepsakes are hand-delivered by yours truly.
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You receive a personal use license for all digital images — meaning you can print for personal use as much as you'd like. Commercial use requires a separate agreement.
— THE PRODUCTS —
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Depending on your session, products include archival fine art prints, keepsake album sets, and the Masterpiece Canvas — a hand crafted, hand painted heirloom piece that stops people in their tracks. PLUS, there are many more options that we’ll discuss before hand as well as during your ordering consultation.
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The Masterpiece Canvas is an extraordinary heirloom upgrade available with The Masterpiece portrait. It's hand crafted and hand painted with a varnish that gives it a painterly quality you can feel. The kind of piece that gets passed down. It's not just a photograph — it's a legacy piece.
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Yes — Gift Vouchers are available as beautifully presented physical cards, mailed directly to you or your recipient. For last minute needs, local pickup and delivery are available. A photography session is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give. Looking for a gift? Inquire here.
— GIVING BACK —
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2% of every non-discounted product sale goes to the animal or marine charity of your choice. You choose the organization that matters most to you — from animal rescue to ocean conservation. It's one small way every keepsake gives back to the world that makes this work possible.
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I actively support Shelter to Soldier, Beagle Freedom Project, Ocean Conservancy, and Surfrider Foundation among others. Each year I also donate a full portrait session and custom artwork package to Shelter to Soldier's annual Be the Light Gala silent auction.
— FRONTWAVE CREDIT UNION MEMBERS —
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Yes — Frontwave members receive exclusive benefits including a $250 credit on The Collection, priority access to Tide and Tails dates before they open to the public, and seasonal member-exclusive offers. Visit the Frontwave member page for full details.