Countryside Experience Preparation Guide
Preparing for your countryside experience
Welcome to the Jo Lyons Photography countryside studio.
Your countryside experience takes place on our private property in Wootton, surrounded by bushland, open paddocks, and wide skies. It’s designed to feel like an adventure for your dog, while remaining calm, safe, and unhurried.
This guide is here to help you feel comfortable and prepared, without pressure or overthinking. There’s nothing you need to memorise. I’ll guide you throughout the experience, and I’ll also check in personally a few days before your session to answer any questions and talk through the weather and timing.
What to expect on the day
Countryside sessions unfold at your dog’s pace. Some dogs are immediately excited by the new sights and smells, while others prefer to take things in slowly. Both are completely normal.
We’ll allow time for your dog to explore, sniff, pause, and move naturally through the space. There’s no expectation for them to perform or follow commands. I work with what your dog offers on the day, and often the most meaningful portraits come from these unstructured, in-between moments.
You’re welcome to stay close to your dog throughout the session. Your calm presence helps them feel secure, and I’ll gently guide you if I need you to adjust position or assist briefly.
Grooming and presentation
If your dog has a longer coat, I recommend scheduling grooming one to two weeks prior to your session. This allows the clip to settle naturally and avoids a freshly groomed look on camera.
The most important area to focus on is the eyes. Keeping the eyes clear of fur makes a noticeable difference in portraits, allowing expression and connection to shine through.
A clean coat and tidy face photograph beautifully, but perfection is never the goal. Character always comes first.
If you'd like to be included in some portraits with your dog, what you wear can subtly influence the overall feel of the images.
There's no dress code. Comfort and authenticity matter most.
For countryside sessions, natural tones, earthy colours, and simple textures photograph beautifully and complement the landscape. Denim, linen, cotton, and knits work well. It's best to avoid bright whites, bold logos, or busy patterns, as these can distract from the connection being captured.
Because the property is rural and can be uneven in places, I recommend closed, comfortable shoes with good grip. You're welcome to bring a second pair of shoes or an outfit change if you'd like to include something more refined in a few portraits.
To take the guesswork out of colours, I have a colour palette tool in the Client Lounge. Upload a photo of your dog and it will suggest tones that work beautifully alongside their colouring.
If you're unsure, feel free to bring a couple of options or reach out beforehand.
Helping your dog feel at ease
The best thing you can do for your dog on the day is to arrive calmly and without rushing. Dogs are very attuned to how we’re feeling and take their cues from you.
There’s no need to practise behaviours, rehearse poses, or worry about training. I work quietly and patiently, allowing space for curiosity, movement, and rest.
If your dog needs a break, we take one. If they want to explore, we allow for that too. Everything unfolds at their pace.
The location and arrival
Our countryside studio is located on a private property in Wootton. Once you arrive, I’ll meet you at the gates and guide you through the space.
Please arrive at your allocated start time so we can make the most of the light and allow your dog time to settle in. If you’re travelling from out of town or have any concerns about directions or timing, just let me know.
There are no shops in Wootton, so it’s best to pick up any supplies you may need before arriving.
After the session
After your countryside experience, I’ll prepare a curated selection of portraits for you to view.
We’ll arrange a time to come together for your reveal and artwork appointment, either in person or via Zoom. I’ll guide you through selecting your favourite images and choosing artwork that suits your home and how you’d love to enjoy the portraits, whether that’s a statement wall piece, a collection, or something more intimate.
You won’t be left to figure this out on your own. My role is to help you create artwork you’ll love living with for years to come.
A final note
This experience isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, presence, and giving your dog space to be exactly who they are in this moment.
If questions come up as you’re reading through this, or if anything feels unclear, just reach out. I’m always happy to help.
I’m really looking forward to welcoming you and your dog to the countryside.
