How to Prepare For a Pet Photo Session

Pets ❤️  I used to be one of those people that looked with repulsion at dog owners getting their faces licked by their pups.  Now, I’m one of them and I will get upset if my pup doesn’t attack me with kisses when I get home!  I love being a dog mum and can’t believe how much I’ve learned about myself and animals and how much joy I get to experience with these little creatures.  I even became a pescatarian!  Anyhow, the point of this is that our pets are truly family members with whom we share unconditional love.  That’s why I welcome them with open arms (literally!) into my studio and love capturing photos of pet owners with their pets.   So how to prepare for a pet photo session? I’m going to share various tips below!

Planning In Advance:

1. Consult with your photographer: The photographer may shoot only in studio or on location or maybe both. Studio sessions are ideal as pets can usually roam around freely in an enclosed space in a temperature controlled environment with minimal distraction. Outdoors however, can also be great when you want to capture outdoor scenery. Keep in mind, most photographers will only shoot outdoors during golden hour when the light is soft, diffused and full of color. Therefore, think about what style you’re looking to capture and what environment your pet would be most comfortable in as well.
2. Grooming: This is completely up to your preference. However, most pups will get groomed a week or so in advance. Getting those nails clipped too will photograph nicely especially if we’re capturing closeups like some of the examples above.
3. Outfits/Accessories: Plan a couple of looks and feel free to bring props e.g. toys. I love capturing not just posed but candid photos as well. I love seeing how pets interact not just with their owners but with their favorites toys also.
4. Treats: This is essential! Bring their favorites because I will be using these treats to get their attention and to award them throughout the session as well.

Day Of Your Pet Photo Session:

1. Manage Energy Levels: If your pet is young they may require some extra play time or a longer walk before your portrait session. Using up some of this energy will help calm them. However, if your pet is a little older they may require some extra rest. Ensure you manage their energy levels so that they have the ideal amount of energy for their portrait session.
2. Concerns: Make sure to share with your photographer any concerns regarding your pet that day. For example, if your pet is ‘shy’ in front of the camera your photographer may use a longer lens so that they are farther from you.
3. Bring Essentials: In addition to all the items you’ve planned above, make sure to bring any essentials as well e.g. water, pee pads, food.
4. Have fun! It is completely our responsibility to guide, pose, direct your portrait session and ensure that all of you are well taken care of. Our cameras take images really quickly. We capture multiple frames to try and ensure that we get the shots that you’ll love. (I’ll easily take at least 100 pics). Time passes quickly so have fun and enjoy this experience with your pet! The result should be timeless portraits that you and your family can treasure for years to come!!