If you’re anything like me, your dog goes pretty much anywhere you go, and that includes photo sessions too!

I fur-mly believe that pets are family, and as such should be included in family portraits too! They bring so much joy into our lives and what better way to document that joy and connection than with a portrait session with the very fluffy apple of your eye?

So you’ve decided to bring your fur-mily member to your session, now what?

Just like any other member of the family, it’s essential to prepare your pup for your photo session to be as succcessful as possible.

Here are my 4 biggest tips for prepping your furchild for your photo session:

EXERCISE, EXERCISE, EXERCISE

Prior to your session, dedicate a chunk of time to either walk, run, or play with your dog so that he is nice and relaxed when it comes to your photo session!

This is especially important for dogs with high energy levels and dogs who have a bit of anxiety. A dog who has gotten all his wiggles out is typically more relaxed, comfortable, and in the right headspace for a photo session.

I don’t ever expect a perfectly behaved dog, but one who has been properly exercised and had all of his needs met prior to the session tends to make for a much more productive session.

As a bonus, when they’re a little worn out and relaxed prior to their session, we’re also more likely to get those relaxed, sweet tongue out smiles and expressions during the photo session.

ARRIVE EARLY

For many dogs, riding in the car can be either a very excitatory or stressful experience, and being in a novel environment after all that can add to that high strung energy.

I highly highly recommend arriving at least 15-20 minutes early to your session location. Yes it does add a bit of time to your preparation, but this little bit of time will allow your pup to acclimate and make for a more productive session. Providing your pup ample time to sniff around, conduct essential “business”, and get acclimated to a new location will help him get in the right mindset by the time your session begins!

The goal is for your pup to be as relaxed and happy as possible for your session. Giving him just a little bit of time to get acclimated will pay dividends in helping you both relax. Walking and moving your body will help you both get in the right mindset and also increase your mutual enjoyment of each other during the shoot!

But make it Fashion

Most clients come to me with questions regarding their wardrobe, but few factor in their furchild’s wardrobe. As your pup is going to be part of the session, it stands to reason that their accessories should be considered too!

For pups, I generally recommend a neutral colored leash (e.g. brown/tan leather, or other neutral color) so that it doesn’t take attention away from you and your pup! I also recommend a collar or harness collar that

a. is comfortable and safe for your pup and

b. that goes together with your entire ensemble/look.

For example, I would not recommend a bright green or purple harness or collar if your vision is for a natural, earthy type of photo. I would, however, recommend a color or pattern that fits within the color family of your outfit for a cohesive look.

I do have a client wardrobe with neutral leash options for small to medium/large pups to borrow during the session 🙂

If you want to go that extra mile and add a styled element to your pup’s outfit, add an accessory! A patterned scarf is a really cute and easy way to add a design element. Another idea is a bow tie or sweater, etc to tie in your pup’s aesthetic with your own! Either way, have fun with it and know that I’m always here to help with any questions you have along the way.

Tricks and Treats

I always bring several kinds of treats to my sessions with pups to “pay” them out for modeling. That said, I understand that many dogs have specific diets, allergies, or food preferences. I highly recommend a bag or two of his favorite treats to have on hand during the session so we can reward him for all of his hard work modeling!

Thank you!

That’s a wrap on my top 4 tips on having a successful session with your pup!

If you have more questions or are interested in booking a session with your favorite furry family member, please message me @ joyce@joyceevelynphoto.com or DM me on instagram @joyceevelynphoto!

I love talking all things dogs and would love to help you and your furry friend document your beautiful fur-riendship <3

And if you’re looking for something fun to do with your favorite furry friend AND have your photos taken all in the same evening, look no further!

Click here for information on our limited summer picnic series specifically curated and designed with pawrents and their furchildren in mind <3