Pet Pop-Up Frequently Asked Questions

Community Bark Bay View and Gem Photo are proud to partner for this unique portrait opportunity. For every photo session that takes place on March 22, GEM Photo will donate $5 to Friends of MADACC and Community Bark Bay View will MATCH it! That means for every pet photographed $10 will be donated to improving outcomes for animals in our community!

Where and when is the event?

  • The Pop-Up is on March 22, 2025 at Community Bark - Bay View. The event runs 10AM-4PM. Community Bark is a pet grooming service located on the corner of Kinnickinnic and Conway Street. Street parking is available but can be tricky at times- please allow yourself a little extra time to find parking.

Community Bark - Bay View 2430 S Kinnickinnic Ave  Milwaukee, WI 53204

What is the cost and what does it include?

  • The cost is $40. It includes a short photo session for your pet and a framed 5 x 7 photo. You will also receive access (via QR code) to a digital download of your photo AND the ability to order more adorable accessories from our digital shop. Your pooch can be featured on mugs, buttons, holiday ornaments, canvases and more.

Do I need to make an appointment?

  • Nope! Simply walk-in and pets will be photographed in the order they arrive. You may experience a short wait.

How long does it take to photograph my pet?

  • The average time per pet is just 5 minutes. I try to work quickly but with a calm demeanor so that pets feel don’t feel overstimulated.

What to expect — can you tell me more about the process?

  • When you arrive at Community Bark, you will be greeted by their staff- let them know you’re there for the photo pop-up and sign in.

  • If there is a line you can shop their pet boutique or treat your pet to a discounted nail trim for just $10- (usually $15).*Please note in order to have this service performed you will need to provide current proof of rabies and distemper vaccinations.

  • When you and your pet are called you will enter a private room where the photo session will take place. Doggies will be positioned on a white background and a quick photo will be taken to capture their silhouette. I use the aid of squeaky toys and treats to elicit your pets best pose. (Bay View Community Bark is supplying the treats, but if your dog has any special dietary conditions please bring your own treats.)

  • Typically one photo of your pet is all we’ll need, but if you wish to have additional poses the cost is $10 p/additional image. (If a line has formed additional images will be capped at 2 p/pet).

  • Next- photos are printed instantly so you’ll walk out with your framed 5x7 photo and a QR code where you’ll have digital access to your photo AND an online store where additional personalized items may be purchased featuring your pet’s photo- think keychains, mugs, ornaments, and even canvases! (The QR code is not instant- but will be populated within 24 hours session).

  • Payment will be accepted at this time. Cash is preferred, but I can also accept venmo or credit card. (A fee of $2.50 will be applied to credit card purchases to cover the processing fee).

Can I be photographed with my pet?

  • Yes! One person and one pet will work best due to the size of the space. (If you have more than two pets or two people consider booking another session at a later date in the studio.)

What forms of payment will be accepted?

  • Cash is preferred and Venmo will be accepted as well. If you must pay by credit card a fee of $2.50 will be added to cover the extra processing fees.

Is it okay to bring my reactive or anxious dog?

  • You know your pet better than anyone, so use your best judgement but, honestly, if you’re worried about your doggy this many not the right opportunity for you. Instead, I encourage booking a private studio session for your dog. E-mail me: MegStrobelPhoto@gmail.com to set something up.

EXTRA DISCOUNTS AND PERKS FROM COMMUNITY BARK - BAY VIEW

  • While you’re there for the photo pop-up book ANY future service at Community Bark Bay View and receive 10% off. Good for new and returning customers.

  • Discounted nail trims will be offered on the 22nd as well. Just $10 for a nail trim (or grind)- saving you $5 of the usual $15 price.

Can I bring another type of pet- like a cat or a bird?

  • Sure, but other pets must be social and kind to dogs and humans.

More about the photographer

  • GEM PHOTO is the “Pet Project” of photographer Meg Strobel. “I love photography, making an impact in my community, and of course dogs! I’m grateful for the opportunity to partner with Community Bark Bay View to make this event possible. $5 from every session will be donated to the Friends of MADACC - AND Community Bark has agreed to match every dollar; together we will have a big impact!”

  • Learn more about me and see more of my work by visiting my website: GemPhotoMKE.com

More about MADACC

  • Friends of MADACC (FoM) is the non-profit fundraising arm of MADACC.  FoM provides wellness programs that focus on helping families keep their pets healthy; community education around treatment of pets and resisting pressure to engage in acts of cruelty; and  financial support to help MADACC best care for the our community's stray and abandoned animal population.

  • FoM is run by a volunteer-based board of individuals, dedicated to community engagement and support!