I absolutely love it when people want to include their dogs in our sessions. I’ve learned some great quick tips over the years on how to have the most successful and least stressful session possible when working with your fur-babies! While all the examples here are of dogs, I love all pets and think they should all be highlighted in your photos. I’ve worked with chickens. horses, cats, birds, ferrets, goats, donkeys and cows! I love them all!
TIP #1: Consider utilizing your home or a commonly visited park
Lots of pets quickly become over stimulated in new places. Allowing me to come to your home, yard or or using a place they are familiar with allows for your pet to get used to me and then settle back into a normal routine pretty quickly without all the excitement and distraction of a new place. If you’d like to include cats or other in-home animals, an in-home session is a great option!
TIP #2. Bring treats and squeaky toys!
It’s always a good idea to bring along treats or toys that make noise that can help me get the attention of your pet while you’re all in front of my camera. BONUS: Oftentimes those noise making toys will cause ears to perk up and give you a really cute expression!
TIP #3. Bring along a LONG leash
Particularly if you’re hoping to have some photos without your pet(s), it’s a good idea to bring along a leash that’s long enough that we can tie them up around a tree or bench for a couple of photos without your furbaby! Long leashes are also great for portraits of your pet so we can give them a little distance and you can stand out of frame.
TIP #4. Give them a workout beforehand!
That’s right! A tired pet is a cooperative pet. Give them a good run around prior to our session and this will help them get all the wiggles out so we can get as much cooperative time with them as possible!
TIP #5. Consider less populated locations
When thinking about your location, consider places that are less busy OR a time of day when less people and other pets are typically around to cut down on distractions!
Your pets are a part of your family and they should absolutely be included. I can’t wait to meet them!
