What if my dog doesn’t behave?

Have you been thinking about hiring a pet photographer but are worried that your dog won’t behave? While basic commands such as sit, down, and stay are very useful for photography sessions, I can work with dogs at all levels of training.

Last fall I had a session with my own dogs and let’s just say it didn’t go exactly as planned. At one point, Maia decided to jump on me and lick my face.

At another moment just as we got posed and ready to go Maia and Ellie started wrestling and Maia kicked me in the face……

Did we still get amazing pictures? Yes! Was I slightly embarrassed? Also yes.

One of the best things about loving a dog is learning and appreciating all of their quirks. So, if your dogs pulls on a leash, barks at the wind, is dog reactive, chases squirrels, or any other quirks that you fear could ruin your session, please take a minute to remember these photographs and know that you are not alone! I have many tricks to help capture beautiful images of your beloved pets.

We hope to see you and your pet soon!

Cheers – Julie, Maia, and Ellie

Goodbye 2021!

Goodbye to 2021, and my first year owning and operating a business!

This year I had the pleasure of photographing 35 dogs and 21 people in sessions and many more at Muttstock. I met wonderful people and learned a ridiculous amount about photography, myself, and running a business. Cheers to 2022 and all the amazing things it will bring! In the meantime, here are some of my favourite images from this year. Enjoy!

Cheers – Julie, Maia, and Ellie

How to make a snuffle ball

With this cold snap, many dogs are not able to get outside and exercise to the extent that they are used to. Mental stimulation for your dog can be a great way to combat boredom and take the edge off of their energy level. Puzzle feeders, kongs, yoga with your dog, and general training can all help tire out your pup until they can enjoy the great outdoors again.

One of my favourite options is a snuffle ball, which is a soft treat dispensing toy. Luckily for everyone, these are easy to make at home with minimal supplies! There are a few different types of snuffle balls, my favourite involves strips of fleece and a rubber ball with holes, such as the JW HOL-ee Roller Ball.

Supplies:

  • rubber ball with holes
  • fleece, cut into strips
  • scissors

Make sure to choose a ball that suits the size of your dog. For reference, I used a large JW HOL-ee roller (approx. 6.5″ in diameter) for my 100lb dog and a slightly smaller (approx. 5″ diameter) TPR Treat Dispensing Ball for my 20lb dog.

The fleece needs to be cut into strips , the size of which will depend on the size of ball you are using. For the smaller ball, the strips range from 1-1.5″ wide and 5-6″ in length. For the larger ball the stips were 1.5-2″ in width and 8-9″ in length.

Tie the strips of fleece around the edges of each hole in a double knot. Ensure the knots are tight enough that your pup can not easily remove the fleece. For an easier snuffle ball use one strip of material per side and to make it more difficult for your dog, tie two pieces of fleece on each side.

Once you have tied fleece to the side of each hole, the ball is complete and ready to entertain your pup!

If your dog has never used a toy like this before, it is recommended to put a few fragrant, high-value treats inside the ball to get them started.

Always supervise your dog while they are playing with their snuffle ball.

2021 Christmas Pet Photos

It feels much too soon to mention Christmas, but it really is approaching quickly! Your furry friend can join the festivities by getting a holiday-themed picture taken! Santa will be present at many of these events, but if your fur-baby isn’t comfortable with Jolly Old Saint Nick they can also get photos without him in a lovely Christmas setting.

For the last two years I have partnered with another local photographer to offer Christmas sessions, but the stars did not align this year. Instead, I have compiled a list of other photographers who are offering this type of session for 2021!

Some of these events support a local rescue, some are for-profit, and some are a mixture of the two. The price, length, backdrops, and what is included in each event varies, so be sure to do your research and choose the event that works best for you and your pup(s)!

As information can change, it is recommended that you check the website or Facebook page of each event to confirm details such as:

  • exact location
  • whether the event is drop in or if booking is required
  • if sessions are by donation or a set session fee
  • date and times available

Arranged in date order some local events include:

We hope you enjoy whichever event you choose!

Cheers – Julie, Maia, and Ellie

Introduction to J Cork Photography

Hello and welcome to my blog! My name is Julie and I am the person behind J Cork Photography. This is my first ever blog and to be honest, I have no idea what to expect! I have a few ideas for posts but this could really turn out to contain anything.

Keep your eyes peeled for future posts with topics such as pet friendly stores in and around Edmonton, tips and tricks for your session, and features on local pet stores!

In the meantime, here’s a picture of Maia and Ellie being the hooligans that they are.

Cheers – Julie, Maia, and Ellie Mae