Tips For Bringing Your Dog To Your Photoshoot

I HIGHLY recommend reading through each of these 7 tips about bringing your dog to your photoshoot to ensure you get the best outcome possible!

I get so many requests from people to bring their dogs to their sessions and my answer is always YES! After years of photographing couples and families with their dog(s), I have learned a thing or two about how to make it an easy, smooth and stress free addition to your gallery.

1. LOCATION.

I always welcome doggos at session but please let me know ahead of time if you choose to bring them so we can be sure to choose a dog friendly location.

2. ITEMS TO BRING WITH YOU.

Treats, potty bags, a leash, and extra water. Every single one of these is super important so please bring them all!

3. KEEP THEM ON LEASH.

Be aware that I often shoot in remote places and in fields where snakes, ticks and other animals can be present. Because of this, I ask that you keep your dog leashed at all times as well as out of respect for other people we may come across on trails.

4. BRING A HELPER.

Also, when you bring your pup, we likely won’t shoot with them the entire session. Not only will they need breaks between posing for photos, but you’ll also want some shots with just you and your partner. I recommend bringing a friend or family member to hold on to your pet and walk around with them during those times. 

5. TIRE THEM OUT.

If possible, I recommend taking your dog to the park to play and burn off a ton of energy before our shoot. This way they are not super rowdy and anxious when it’s time to smile for the camera!

6. PET ACCESSORIES.

Make sure you get your pet groomed and prepped for the session just like you would for yourself. I often see people buy cute collars/vests/leashes/bandanas to match them or commemorate the occasion.

7. DON’T STRESS.

Lastly, don’t worry if your dog isn’t behaving how you’d hoped. Dogs can be rambunctious or not necessarily want to chill for super posed shots and that’s totally fine. I am patient and will work to capture candid moments of you and your beloved doggo. If you get stressed or angry then they will pick up on your energy, so try to just have fun with it!

I hope these tips for bringing your dog to your photoshoot were helpful. If you want to book a session with me (with or without your fur children) click here to fill out my contact form!