Palo Alto Pet Photography: Cherished Memories, Artfully Captured

Bringing out your pet’s personality with dynamic photography set against Palo Alto’s vibrant parks, nature trails, and iconic outdoor spots
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san francisco pet photographer mark rogers holding his dog while it kisses his cheek

Say Hi to Mark, Your Pet Photographer for Palo Alto

If your furry overlord could dictate their portrait session, they’d undoubtedly require artisanal kibble, a personal squeaky toy wrangler, and a backdrop that screams “Silicon Valley chic.” While I can’t guarantee the kibble, I can definitely deliver the fabulous! I’m your go-to for Palo Alto Pet Photography, specializing in capturing the unique (and often hilarious) quirks of dogs, cats, and the occasional tech-savvy hamster.

Palo Alto is a treasure trove of photogenic spots, perfect for your pet’s close-up. Does your pup dream of frolicking among the Stanford campus’s iconic arches? Or perhaps they envision themselves as a nature influencer in the serene Byxbee Park? We can even capture their contemplative side gazing at the duck pond, pondering the next big app idea.

For the urban sophisticate, a stroll down University Avenue offers the perfect opportunity to showcase their street style, especially if they enjoy judging the local startup fashion. Or, if your pet prefers the comfort of home (and avoiding venture capitalists), we can create a cozy studio vibe.

Whether they’re a comedic genius or a stoic CEO, we’ll capture the moments that make you dog or cat the star of your household. Let’s chat and plan a pet photo session that’ll make your pet’s Instagram followers green with envy!

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Hear What Past Clients Have to Say

Mark’s customers from Palo Alto and surrounding areas have nice things to say
Three small dogs on a boat in Sausalito

Mary Beth – Sausalito, CA

Mark did a photo shoot of our 3 terriers for a poster that is hanging in Pet Food Express.  Our 3 “kids” each have their very own, distinct personality, and Mark and his assistant were able to wrangle them to get the most amazing shots ever!  His patience and expertise won the day!

Bridget – Marin, CA

We couldn’t be happier with the our experience with Mark. He managed to capture our dog at her best, which was no small feat as she is rarely still. He captured both her sweet side and her playful side and we will treasure the beautiful photos. Not only is Mark an extremely talented photographer, he is patient, kind, and professional as well. We highly recommend him. 

Angela – Marin, CA

There were so many great shots it was very difficult to choose our favorites.

Great Locations for Palo Alto Dog & Pet Photography

Palo Alto offers a diverse mix of beautiful outdoor settings, perfect for capturing your pet’s unique personality. From peaceful trails to the campus of a world-class University and the open green spaces of local parks, there’s no shortage of stunning backdrops. I’ve explored many of them, but I’m always excited to discover new spots—so if you have a favorite you’d like to try, let me know! Here are some of my top picks for sessions.

Labrador dog in front of Cantor Museum on Stanford campus

Stanford University Campus

A timeless landmark in Palo Alto, Stanford Campus offers a stunning mix of grand architecture, tree-lined walkways, and beautifully manicured gardens—an elegant setting for a pet photoshoot. With its sprawling lawns and iconic archways, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect spots to capture your pet’s personality. Whether they’re posing by the historic buildings or trotting through the scenic courtyards, the campus provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop for unforgettable photos

small white dog running on trail at Byxbee Park in Palo Alto

Byxbee Park

A unique blend of nature and art, Byxbee Park offers wide-open spaces, rolling grasslands, and scenic bay views—an ideal setting for a pet photoshoot. With its winding trails and striking earth sculptures, this peaceful spot provides a beautiful, minimalist backdrop to let your pet shine. Whether they’re exploring the paths or basking in the golden light, it’s a perfect place for unforgettable photos.

dog with reddish coat sitting on dock at Foothills Preserve's lake
Foothills Preserve

A scenic retreat in Palo Alto, Foothills Park boasts breathtaking vistas, peaceful meadows, and winding woodland trails—an ideal setting for a pet photoshoot. With its open fields, serene lake, and shady oak groves, there’s plenty of space for pets to explore while capturing stunning shots. Whether your pup loves adventure or simply soaking in the scenery, this park provides a picture-perfect backdrop. One constraint: dogs are only allowed on weekdays.

Grinning dog posing near small lake at Arastradero Preserve in Palo Alto

Arastradero Preserve

A breathtaking expanse of rolling hills and oak-studded trails, Arastradero Preserve is a fantastic spot for a pet photoshoot. With its golden grasslands, peaceful ponds, and scenic overlooks, this nature preserve offers a stunning, rustic backdrop. Whether your pet loves to roam the trails or relax in the open fields, Arastradero’s natural beauty makes for unforgettable photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

There are some fantastic photo ops around town. Eleanor Pardee Park is a hidden gem with tons of greenery. For a woodsy vibe, we can head to the Stanford Dish trails. If you’re more into sleek architecture, downtown Palo Alto and the Stanford campus offer some really cool urban textures. Or, we can keep things cozy and do the session at your place—sometimes home is where the best tail wags happen..

That makes two of us! Most pets aren’t trained performers, and that’s half the fun. I come armed with patience, squeaky toys, and the occasional ridiculous sound effect to get their attention. The best photos often come from the chaos.

Shoots in Palo Alto are $340, which includes a $50 travel fee for getting to your area. If you’d prefer to meet me in San Francisco, the rate is $290. That fee covers the shoot and all the planning beforehand. Images and artwork are available separately.

Yes and yes. I save Saturdays for weekend sessions, and I can sometimes swing a Sunday with notice. The session fee is still $340. Weekdays are usually easier to book if you want to get in sooner. Let me know what works best!

It happens! If your pet’s under the weather (get it?) or Mother Nature throws a tantrum, you get one free reschedule. Flexibility is part of the fun.!

Usually around two hours, but your pet’s personality is the real timekeeper. We take breaks, goof around, chase squirrels (them, not me—usually), and take our time to get the best shots.

Most sessions include up to two pets and two people. If you have additional pets (or people) you’d like to include, it’s $50 per extra subject. I’ve done shoots with large groups of animals before—it just takes a little extra planning…and treats!

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Pricing

Session Fee

$290 for San Francisco Studio or Locations (additional travel fee outside the city) Fee covers photography, meticulous editing and touch-up work. Prints, wall pieces and digital files are sold separately.

Sessions Include:

  • 2-hour shoot for up to two pets (additional animals – $50)
  • 25-35 carefully selected and retouched images for review in online gallery (files not included)
  • In-home or ZOOM review of images and different display options

Post-Session:

When we meet post-session we’ll review your images together in person or over zoom and determine the best ways to display your favorites based on your style and space. I offer wall art displays of metal prints, canvas wraps or traditional framed prints as well as loose fine-art prints and table-top pieces.

Every item purchased also includes a social-media friendly digital file of that image. Most clients spend between $900-$2500 (some less, some more) after the shoot for prints and wall art. For the digitally-centric I also offer digital bundles to meet your needs.

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Let’s Get Started

Contact me and provide some initial information. I’ll respond within one business day.