Livestock
As a former FFA member and current Ag Science teacher, I understand the special bond between FFA & 4H exhibitors, farmers or ranchers, and their beloved livestock. Whether it's a prize-winning steer, beloved horse, or cherished show gilt, I'll work closely with you to create stunning portraits that showcase the unique character of each animal. With my passion for both photography and agriculture, I strive to create images that not only capture the essence of your animals but also honor the dedication and hard work that goes into caring for them. Book your Livestock Animal photo session with me today and let's create timeless memories together!
These sessions can be shot on your location of choice such as your property, your barn, or at a livestock show.
While these sessions are mostly designed to show off the human-animal bond and include a human subject as well as an animal subject, I do also offer conformation sessions exclusively for livestock, catering to your marketing or sales needs. Special pricing is available for large herd, breeding, or show stock photographs (10+ animals without human subjects) upon request.
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The sessions cover either one individual with a single livestock project or the livestock alone. If you wish to include additional animals (up to 4 animals), there will be an extra charge of $30 for each animal added to your package price. If you wish to include additional family members (up to 4 people), there will be an extra charge of $20 for each individual added to your package price.
How it Works
1. PRE-SESSION MEETING:
Before your photo session, we will schedule a time to meet in person or on Video Call for 15 to 30 minutes. Here, we will get to know a little about each other, discuss style and expectations for the shoot. Then, we will determine the package you would like to choose, the location(s) of the shoot along with date and time. At this time, a $50 non-refundable deposit is required to hold any session spot. If the date and time changes, the deposit will transfer. If the client cancels outright for any reason, the deposit is lost.
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2. PHOTO SESSION:
We will meet at the agreed-upon shoot location on our specified date and time. The session length and number of outfit changes will be determined by which session was booked.
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3. PHOTO SELECTION:
One to two weeks after the session, we will (preferably meet in person) look over photos from the shoot so you can select your favorites. This is to ensure you will only be paying for the photos you like, and not the ones you don't! At this time, we can also discuss touch-ups to be made to the images including blemish fixes, color correction, and background object removal. At this meeting, we can also determine what (if any) products you would like to add - including but not limited to; custom graduation invitations, photo prints, canvases, albums, etc. More about the photo selection process here.
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4. ALBUM DELIVERY:
One to two weeks after the photo selection meeting, your final edited images will be delivered to you (if you selected digital image delivery). Any other products will be delivered to you as soon as they are received from the photo printing lab (usually within 14 days of placing the order with the lab).
Livestock Session
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60-90 minute photo session (session fee included)
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One person and one animal in the photos (each additional animal is $30)
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One location
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One wardrobe change (2 outfits)
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15 fully edited images delivered digitally in high-res.
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Option to purchase additional downloads ($5 ea)
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Full-resolution Images added to password-protected online gallery
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Print Release​
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Option to order professional prints
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30% off a professional print order
BASIC PACKAGE - $250
Livestock Session
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90-120 minute photo session (session fee included)
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One person and one animal in the photos (each additional animal is $30)
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Two locations (within 10 miles of each other)
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Two to three wardrobe changes (3-4 outfits)
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30 fully edited images digitally in high-res.
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Option to purchase additional downloads ($5 ea)
-
Full-resolution Images added to password-protected online gallery
-
Print Release​
-
Option to order professional prints
-
30% off a professional print order
BASIC PACKAGE - $400
Before Your Session
GROOMING:
FOR YOU: You want to avoid looking like you just finished catching and tagging 20 calves! Brush your hair, throw in a little spray and wear something nice. Choose colors and patterns that won't be so loud, it takes away from the shot. If you want to wear your favorite pearl snap and jeans, have at it, but I also welcome those who are in the mood to put on a suit and a felt hat or a flowy dress and your best boots. Ladies, this is the perfect excuse to get your hair and makeup done and stop at the nail salon on the way home! Just make sure to wear makeup that matches your skin tone and isn't too overpowering.
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FOR THE ANIMAL: Ensure the animal is clean and well-groomed before the photoshoot. This includes brushing, bathing, and trimming any excess hair or feathers. Cleanliness will enhance the animal's appearance in the photographs. Make sure the animal is in good health and free from any visible signs of illness or discomfort, as this will likely end up showing in the photographs. Regular exercise can help the animal appear more alert and energetic in the photographs. Consider providing opportunities for the animal to move around and stretch its muscles before the shoot.
EQUIPMENT:
Be sure to clean up and condition any tack that you will use for the shoot. Dust and dirt will show! Bring along a brush (for you and the animal), your whip or show stick, baby wipes (for eye boogies and snot), a water bucket or sprayer, and maybe even your favorite conditioning spray. Also consider bringing equipment to help keep the animal's curiosity during the shoot: snacks, a crinkly bag, a feed bucket, etc.
NATURAL LIGHTING:
If possible, schedule your session during the golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for soft, flattering light. As time is limited and we're working against daylight, it's recommended that you have the animals and handlers ready to begin the shoot as soon as we arrive at the location.
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BRINGING BACK-UP:
You might want to ask a friend or family member to join you during the photoshoot to assist with your livestock while you change outfits. They can help with grooming touch-ups, adjusting tack, and keeping the animals focused during the shoot. Having grain buckets, grocery bags on sticks, keys, and other items on hand can also be helpful for this purpose.
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PATIENCE & FLEXIBILITY:
Be patient and flexible during the photoshoot, as animals can be unpredictable at times. Don't get frustrated if it isn't going the way you imagined. Allow for breaks and adjustments as needed to keep the animal comfortable and cooperative. It is important to have fun and enjoy the experience with your animal companion! A relaxed and positive atmosphere will help bring out the best in both you and your animal in the photographs.