Wondering how to prepare for your dog’s photo shoot? Time to strike a pose! Check out the 10 tips below to ensure that you and your fur baby get the most out of your portrait session.
1. Answer your photographer’s questions.
Your photographer should have a list of questions. Make sure to answer the questions ahead of time. This will give the photographer an idea of things to take into consideration during the session as well as during the initial greeting with your dog. Questions you can expect to be asked will include topics such as your pet’s personality, motivation, and if you have any special requests.These questions will go a long way in helping your photographer to prepare for your dog’s photo shoot.
2. Consider Having your Pet Groomed Before the Session.
This is by no means a requirement. However, if you prefer to have your fur baby with a freshly clipped look then it would be a good idea to have him/her groomed a day or two before your portrait session.
3. Burn off Some Energy Before the Session.
If your doggo has oodles of energy it may be a good idea to take them on a long walk prior to the photoshoot. You may even want to get to the session earlier so that your dog can explore and burn off some extra energy.
4. Bring Treats.
Bring your dog’s favorite treats. This is especially important if your dog has allergies or dietary restrictions. Your photographer will direct you on when to bring out the treats. For example, if your dog is extremely food motivated then the photographer may have you wait to bring out the treats so he/she won’t get super distracted right away. It’s best to give the photographer the treat or otherwise to hold it right above the camera. This helps your dog to look right at the camera lens for the perfect shot, not staring up at you the whole time.
5. Consider bringing props.
Props add a major dose of personality to your photoshoot! Props can include bandannas, outfits, signs, blankets, or holiday decor. The sky is the limit in terms of your creativity!
6. Decide on a location.
There are a variety of factors to think about when selecting the perfect location for your pet portrait session. Perhaps there is a spot that has a special meaning to you and your fur baby. You may choose your home if your fur baby is nervous about being in new locations. If you are unsure of where to pick you may discuss ideas with your photographer that will match your style. For example, you may prefer a downtown environment instead of a spacious park.
Stay tuned for a bigger blog post on location ideas for pet photography in Raleigh, NC!
7. Relax!
View the session as a super fun playtime. Don’t stress about whether you think your dog is doing “good” or “bad.” A photographer with experience with pets only needs a split second to get a particular shot. If you express your concern about how well your pet is doing, a good photographer will reassure you that your fur baby is doing amazing!
8. Expect to keep your dog’s leash on
During our portrait sessions in public or an unfenced area, your dog should be wearing a leash. Your photographer should be able to edit out the leash using post-processing software. A professional photographer will keep your pet’s safety as well as leash laws in mind.
9. Time of day is important
Time of day is an important factor. The best light tends to be about 1 hour before sunrise or 1 before sunset. Photography is all about light! Scheduling your photo shoot close to these times will take your images to the next level.
10. Consider being in the photos with your pet.
Consider being in the photos with your pet. Sometimes pet owners don’t want to be in the photos. However, I encourage owners to step outside their comfort zone and be in some of the photos. You will be glad you captured the relationship between you and your pet! You can also opt to “in but not in” photo. It still conveys the relationship between you and your pet but without you being fully pictured! Check out this example below!
