what to know for a great pet session

In the very early days of my photography career pets were my main subjects, and dogs in particular. As my business grew to include children and families, pets were naturally added into the portrait mix. It’s very common for families to bring their dogs, and sometimes cats, along to their location session and often I’ll do sessions in client homes so that pets can easily be included.

Sometimes pets are THE reason for a portrait session, and when they are it’s typically a romping, rumbling, tumbling good time. If you’d like a session featuring your pet/s or a session that includes them with your family, here are some tips that will help ensure your pet portrait session is a success.

Make sure your pet is fed

A pet session includes a lot of new things…me, perhaps new noises, and possibly some flashes from my light. All of this can be exciting for your animal but it can also tire them out and make them hungry. Pets, like the rest of us, get grumpy when they’re hungry so be sure your dog or cat is fed before their session.

Exercise your pet to wear them out a bit

A younger animal typically has LOADS of energy which is really wonderful but it can also make it difficult to get them to settle down with all the new things going on. Giving your dog a walk or some time to chase a ball just before their session helps ensure they’re at least a LITTLE bit tired out.

Bathe and/or groom your pet so they look their best

If your pet requires grooming have that done about two weeks before their session. If your animal doesn’t require a groom then a bath and a brushing guarantees their coat will look shiny and terrific.

Have a brush or comb on hand for touch-ups

If your pet’s hair is long and prone to going wild having a brush or comb nearby makes it easy to give a little touch-up during the session.

Consider a new collar or removing the collar completely

If it’s possible to remove your pet’s collar for their session I recommend it as it will give your pet a more natural look. If you prefer to have the collar stay on I suggest giving it a good wash or even purchasing a new one so everything is fresh. In open spaces collars and leads should only be removed when dogs can be trusted to come on a recall.

Have treats on hand

Treats are a great motivator to help me get your pet to look in the direction I need them looking. Having some of their favorites on hand will let me connect with your animal, allow her to trust me, AND let me get the best portraits possible.

Does your pet have a favorite toy?

I’ve photographed a dog that carried a battered stuffed puppy around, a cat that loved a little horse squeak toy, and a puppy that came home to his family with a very special blanket. Adding these kinds of items into your pet’s portrait session will personalize your portraits and help you remember some of the most special things about them.

We’ll take breaks during the session

It can be tiring for a pet, especially a young one, to be photographed—it’s likely a new experience and I want it to be fun for the animal, for you, and for me. One way to help make sure your pet is having a good time is to take breaks and have some snuggles between photographing.