Pet-Friendly Policy of Photo Studios
Luma Studio is delighted to welcome visitors with their pets and often hosts amazing photoshoots with pets at no additional charge for your furry friends. Each pet-involved photoshoot is followed by a special cleaning to ensure a spotless space for the next visitors.
Nowadays, more countries around the world are embracing the Pet-Friendly philosophy. The United Arab Emirates, a country rich in unique historical heritage with its own culture and traditions of interacting with pets, is no exception. As a highly developed and progressive country, the UAE is rapidly advancing in the development of pet-friendly culture.
Many hospitality venues kindly offer water bowls, blankets, and paw cleaners for their four-legged guests. Cafes and restaurants accommodate fur-clad visitors and their humans, sometimes even serving the special guest a fillet of apple on request. Public spaces are increasingly removing “no pets” signs, inviting guests with animals.
The Origins of the Pet-Friendly Philosophy
Some view the Pet-Friendly philosophy as a way to expand customer loyalty among those who love animals. Others are driven by a moral stance, genuinely supporting the importance of kind treatment toward animals and fostering a truly animal-friendly urban culture.
The idea of creating a comfortable environment for pets and their owners is not new – it originated in Europe and the U.S. decades ago. Since then, it has firmly established itself across many areas of life: from restaurants and boutiques to trendy city locations and cultural spaces.
Pet-Friendly and Dog-Friendly Photo Studios
Photo studios have also embraced this progress. Around the world, it’s easy to find studios that allow or even encourage visits with pets. If you decide to involve your four-legged friend in an upcoming shoot, it’s essential to pay attention to a few aspects to ensure everything goes smoothly:
– CONDITIONS: Every studio has its own rules for visitors with pets. If something doesn’t suit you upfront, don’t expect the studio to change its policy on the day of the shoot to accommodate your needs. Everything should be agreed upon in advance.
– DOCUMENTS: Be sure to clarify if the studio requires any documents for your pet’s participation, such as a veterinary passport, proof of vaccinations, etc.
– EQUIPMENT: Check what equipment the studio provides for your furry guest and what you’ll need to bring yourself.
– PRICING: Understand all potential costs beforehand, including fees, penalties, deposits, additional cleaning charges, and any other possible expenses related to having pets on set.
Conditions
While there aren’t yet many pet-friendly photo studios in the UAE, Luma Studio is happy to welcome animals in its spaces and frequently holds photoshoots with dogs. We do not charge for their participation and always carry out a deep cleaning afterward, free of extra charge. However, other studios may have different policies: some might only allow pets in specific rooms or may charge extra for additional cleaning. In some cases, the fee for involving an animal can be as much as 50% of the base cost.
It’s also important to clarify what kind of animal is involved. Many studios may refuse to work with insects, exotic animals, or birds, avoiding events that could compromise the welfare of wild creatures. For example, Luma Studio will certainly decline in such cases: we are against the exploitation of animals and do not permit it in our spaces. An exception might be snakes, but only if the owner is present to ensure the safety of both the human and reptile participants.
Choosing a Photographer
An experienced animal photographer is key to creating a comfortable atmosphere. Pay close attention to the quality, level, and style of the photographer’s previous projects.
By carefully reviewing the photographer’s portfolio, you can determine how well their vision aligns with your own. For instance, you may notice whether they chose the right backdrops and lighting, whether their stylistic choices resonate with you, and whether they successfully captured the phenomenon of how owners and their pets often resemble each other.
Ideas
Moving away from classic pet photoshoot concepts like “Park Walk,” “Playing Fetch,” or “Chilling on a Bench” opens up endless creative possibilities. For example, you could do a cozy indoor shoot in the stylish “FLAT” room, showcasing a relaxed evening with your furry family member, or create a vibrant themed photoshoot in the “TERRACOTTA” room, filled with live plants and futuristic shapes. Here, you can bring to life a variety of stylish, abstract ideas. You could even organize a spooky Halloween costume shoot in the “PINK” room or recreate a favorite scene from the Star Wars universe in the minimalist “WHITE” room (as long as your furry friend approves of the R2D2 costume!).
How to Prepare Your Pet
There are a few simple rules to follow to ensure a successful shoot with your pet:
– Schedule a visit to the groomer shortly before the event—clean, shiny fur and well-manicured claws will definitely enhance your photos.
– If your pet tends to get anxious in new environments, consult a pet psychologist or breeder on how to reduce stress levels.
– A good walk before the studio visit will help your dog burn off extra energy, saving you time and nerves during the shoot.
– If the journey to the studio is long, avoid feeding your pet for a few hours beforehand.
– Even if the studio is close, don’t feed your furry friend a full meal – give them a portion and bring the rest along.
– Bring your pet’s favorite treats to help them stay calm and motivated during the session.
– Pack their favorite toy, leash, collar, and blanket.
– Don’t forget wet wipes, a lint roller for your clothes, and a great attitude.
Let’s Live in Harmony!
The Luma Studio team sees the rise of the Pet-Friendly policy not just as a new fashion trend, but as a socially important initiative. It’s about raising awareness that animal rights are not just a worn-out phrase, but a vital and relevant trend—a marker of civilized society, humanity, and kindness, something we all need more of.
We hope this article proves helpful to you. May the photos of your life with your beloved furry friend be wonderful and bring you joy for years to come!
We wish you vibrant shots, exciting projects, and endless inspiration!
Dubai Hills, Park Height Square 2. Get inspired and create in the spacious creative environments of Luma Studio.