Tips and Tricks for Including Your Dog in Your Photo Shoot

It’s always a pleasure to share content from others, especially when it’s helpful to my clients! Nick Burton, of Our Best Doggo website, wrote this informative and very useful piece on how to include your furry friend, AKA your pet dog, in your photo shoot. Be it family, engagement, pet portraits or even your newborn session, I’ve shot them all! If your dog is your only kid right now, consider taking a whole “family” session with your dog and your spouse! 

Thanks again to Nick for writing this article for my photography clients specifically. Hope you find some helpful tips!

In an era where social media reigns supreme, incorporating our furry friends into our photo shoots has become more than just a trend; it's a way to capture our most cherished moments. Whether it's for family portraits, solo pet shots, or even engagement photos, having your dog in the frame adds a special touch. However, photographing dogs can be challenging — even when you work with a professional photographer. They don't understand our directions, can be unpredictable, and their attention spans are short. Here are some handy tips shared with you for including your dog in a photo shoot, ensuring a fun, stress-free experience for both you and your canine companion.

Keeping Your Dog Calm and Engaged

Reflect Your Calmness: Dogs are incredibly sensitive to our emotions. If you're stressed, your dog will likely sense it and become anxious. Approach the photo shoot with a relaxed, positive attitude. This calm energy will help your dog feel at ease. Additionally, practicing some basic obedience training before the shoot can help your dog understand simple commands during the session.

Reward and Praise: Keep treats on hand to reward your dog for good behavior. Positive reinforcement works wonders in keeping them engaged and willing to cooperate. Remember to praise them with a cheerful voice and affectionate petting. Consistent rewards and encouragement will make your dog more likely to respond positively throughout the shoot.

Timing and Setting

Choose the Right Moment: Opt for times when your dog is naturally more relaxed or playful, depending on the kind of photos you want. Early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer, can also be ideal for photography. Avoid times when your dog might be tired or hungry, as they may be less cooperative.

Safe and Enjoyable Locations: Select a location where your dog feels comfortable. Familiar settings like your backyard or a favorite park can be great choices. Ensure the area is safe and enclosed if your dog tends to run off. Avoid places with too many distractions or loud noises that might unsettle them. If you live in a neighborhood with a high walk score, look for walkable attractions such as parks or pet-friendly shops and restaurants that could serve as a nice backdrop for your photos.

Assistance and Attire

Enlist Help: Having a friend or family member to assist can be invaluable. They can hold treats, make funny noises to capture your dog’s attention, or even help with handling your dog. This person can also be responsible for ensuring the dog's needs are met during the shoot, like providing water and ensuring they are not overworked.

Comfortable Clothing: If you decide to dress up your dog, ensure the attire is comfortable and not distressing for them. Avoid tight-fitting or cumbersome outfits that might cause anxiety or discomfort. The clothing should be easy to put on and take off, and it shouldn't restrict your dog's movement or ability to breathe comfortably.

Short and Sweet: Dogs may lose interest or become restless if the photo shoot is too long. Consider short sessions or take a quick walk to rejuvenate their spirits. These breaks are also an excellent opportunity for your dog to relax and naturally display more of their personality, which can be captured in the photos.

Props and Themes

Introduce Props: Props can add an exciting element to your photos. Choose items that match the theme of the shoot, like a cute bandana for a casual look or a bow tie for something more formal. Make sure any props are dog-safe and won’t cause any harm. Props should be used in moderation and only if they seem to make your dog more comfortable rather than the opposite.

Thematic Consistency: To make your photoshoot stand out, consider a theme that resonates with your dog's personality or the occasion. Themes like 'summer fun' with beach balls and sunglasses, or 'winter wonderland' with festive scarves and hats, can add a unique flavor to the photographs. Ensure the theme complements the location and attire for a cohesive and visually appealing result. Remember, the theme should be enjoyable for your dog and not cause them any stress.

Social Media Stardom

Sharing Your Photos: Once you have your adorable photos, don’t hesitate to share them on social media. You can even consider creating a brand for your pet. With the right approach, your dog could be the next big social media star. Think about a unique aspect of your dog's personality or appearance that could attract followers.

Creating a Brand: 

If you're interested in making your dog a social media sensation, think about what makes them unique. Use consistent hashtags, post regularly, and engage with your audience to build a following. An easy-to-use free option can help you create the perfect post for each platform. Additionally, be sure to interact with your followers by responding to comments and messages, as this will help build a community around your dog's brand.

Having your dog professionally photographed is not just about capturing their image; it's an opportunity to deepen your bond and create lasting memories. Each click of the camera is a chance to showcase your dog's unique personality and the special relationship you share. With the right approach, patience, and understanding of your furry friend's needs, you can turn a simple photo shoot into an enjoyable and rewarding experience.