DOG PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
Based in Muskegon, Michigan, scheduled for May 29-31, 2026.
ABOUT DOG PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP
During this workshop, we will be embarking on a three day photography journey with a maximum of 8 like minded professional photographers, learning my extensive process of creating canine portraits. Pet portraiture has never been more popular, and with the skillset you’ll gain from this workshop, you’ll be able to go anywhere in the world and be confident with your canine photography!
These workshops, are set in Muskegon, Michigan, scheduled for May 29-31, 2026. We will be dividing our time between the classroom and visiting several local locations, to photograph an array of hand picked show and sporting dogs, in urban, woodland, beach and farmland environments (click on the images below to see previous work in these specific locations!)
Along the way, we’ll be learning about …
Photography equipment and creating unique portraits and action shots of dog models in all types of environments!
Camera gear & settings
Using back button & single point focusing
Toys and tricks to get ears
Importance of having an assistant
Reviewing basic and more advanced poses, do’s & don’ts
Shooting through movement to capture hidden poses
Composing images using rule of thirds
Importance of breed standards, behavior traits, and sporting disciplines to maximize the images you’re able to capture with any dog, or any age and breed
Recognizing unique features or behaviors presented & how to highlight those through posed or action shots
Problem solving on the fly when working with difficult clients or dogs
Pros/Cons of leashes, harness or dog outfit choices
Determining best locations for portraits and action shots, based on client needs and level of training the dog has
Safety and professionalism at public locations
Using natural light to capture a variety of images, from soft light, vibrant colors, golden hour sun flares, and silhouettes.
While we’ll be photographing many dogs throughout the workshop, this weekend is geared toward learning and apply the new skills, with hands on and individual coaching.
Editing tips, tricks, and my signature style!
Importing & securing files
Culling & file prep
Editing RAW images using Adobe Photoshop
Removing leads, coat blemishes, and background distractions
Masking
Color control & color casting
Floor replacements
Photoshop brushes
Compositions with multiple dogs & MORE!
Business, Marketing and Client Management…
Photography Package Designs, what works and what doesn’t
Website must haves
Social media pros/cons
Content creation to boost value to client
Tips for traveling, marketing & booking
Client inquiry process, legal contracts & prep guides
Client delivery & difference between IPS and All Inclusive
Fine Art Sales, choosing and upselling products
Ways to go above & beyond for clients
But most importantly, you’ll be learning how to create a remarkable and positively enriching client experience, that will in turn achieve a steady flow of new clients through endless referrals and recommendations!
YOUR INVESTMENT $2,400 +tax
$800 of the total package amount is considered a non refundable retainer, required upon booking, with the remainder of your investment available for payment plans leading up to the workshop date. Final payment is due in full by the date of the workshop.
Includes…
3 Days of fun filled education!
Group and Individual Coaching from Jesse during photoshoots with a variety of dog models.
Use of non-commercial photographs for portfolio and social media.
1 Virtual Mentorship following the workshop to receive additional one-on-one time with Jesse to further your skills.
3 Full Editing Video Tutorials (from locations we’ll be photographing!)
75+ J.Klein Photos Canine Photoshop Brushes (‘24 & ‘25 Collections)
Excludes…
Cancellation and travel insurance
Transportation, lodging and meals
Camera Equipment
Refundable Deposit
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
This workshop is fast paced, geared toward professional photographers (full time or part time), who have a background knowledge of dogs, and want to elevate their skills in photographing and editing canine portraits for fine art or commercial use. Familiarity with both your camera equipment and Photoshop is required. Ability to be on your feet photographing for extended periods of time in rain or shine is required. We encourage you to plan for an overload of in depth education about dog photography AND creating a successful photography business around that passion. It can be a lot, because Jesse does not hold back information. You bring the caffeine and we’ll have the notebooks and pens ready for you!
EQUIPMENT REQUIRED
DSLR or Mirrorless camera, a 70-200mm lens (additional prime lens 85mm or 135mm are encouraged!). Multiple camera batteries and memory cards to last for a full day of photography. A laptop with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and Bridge software + memory card reader. External hard drives are encouraged for safe storage of files.
LOCATION
These workshops will be taking place in Muskegon Michigan, with photoshoot locations within a 30 minute driving radius. Flying through Gerald R. Ford Airport or Muskegon County Airport and lodging in the Muskegon area is recommended (Muskegon is approximately 50 minutes northwest of Gerald R. Ford Airport.). Vehicle rentals are available at Gerald R. Ford. Please be sure to make reservations promptly. Carpooling or renting AirBNB with other students is encouraged, and a great way to harbor new friendships with your fellow photographers!
WEATHER
Michigan is known to have temperamental weather during this time frame. We will be adjusting our photoshoots as needed, but if it is a light rain, we will be photographing through it. Rain jacket and pants for yourself AND camera equipment is highly recommended! Temperatures typically fall between 40-60oF, so warm layers and waterproof boots are a must!
ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Jesse Klein has over a decade of professional photography and entrepreneur experience, creating a multi six figure business, and leading the industry with her Canine AND Equine Portraiture work. Traveling throughout the country, Jesse specializes in canine behavior, which when partnered with fine art skills, creates highly sought after photography that incorporates the true essence of the canine’s individual spirits, breed standards and sporting disciplines.
Jesse’s passion for dogs started as a child, and has over 20 years of experience training service dogs for the disabled, K9 state police dogs, and offering private training classes for obedience, agility, rally and trick dogs.
This passion extends to the history and purpose of each breed, giving her an advantage when creating a story, and being able to tap into the specific breed traits, to elevate both the experience and resulting photographs.
There is no Jesse without her beloved corgi and her camera. These passions are too intertwined, and sharing the depths of her knowledge guarantees success for those who attend workshops or private mentorships!
Click HERE to read more about Jesse.
READY TO APPLY?
A limited number of spots will be available for the photographers that are the best fit for this workshop, as a first come, first serve basis. Applications will assists us in ensuring you’re set up for success and have the best experience possible!
Private Mentorships
Not able to make it in person? I offer virtual mentorships for photographers who are looking to further their education from home!
Self Education
There are busy seasons and slower seasons, but every day is a great day to further your education! Video tutorials, teaching my step by step process on editing are available for download. No membership or restricting time limits. Simply download and learn on your own time.
