Including your dog in a photo session is such a fun way to capture real family life. After all, pets are part of the family too! Whether your pup is a goofy sidekick or a calm companion, they can bring so much personality (and a few laughs) to your photos. That said, getting great shots with a dog does take a little extra planning. As someone who’s seen a few family sessions with furry guests, I’ve got a few tips to help things go a little smoother. Tips for bringing your dog to a photo session: What to Know Before You Go can help you prepare for a fun, low-stress experience.
1. Let Your Photographer Know Ahead of Time
First things first—be sure to tell your photographer that your dog will be joining. This gives them time to plan, scout pet-friendly locations, and bring any extra gear that might help. It also helps them set realistic expectations for timing and posing, especially if your dog is high-energy or a little camera shy. Some photographers even love dogs and will come prepared with treats, squeaky toys, or tips for getting their attention—so the more they know ahead of time, the better.
2. Choose the Right Location
Pick a pet-friendly location that won’t be too stressful for your dog. A quiet park, an open field, or your own backyard can work well. Avoid places that are too crowded or full of distractions—other dogs, lots of people, or too much traffic can make it harder to keep your pup calm and focused. Also, make sure dogs are actually allowed at the spot you choose. Some locations have rules about pets, so it’s always good to double-check.
3. Bring the Essentials
Think of it like packing a mini bag for your dog. Be sure to bring a leash, poop bags, water, a collapsible bowl, and a few of their favorite treats or toys. If your dog tends to get nervous or excited in new places, bringing something familiar—like a favorite blanket or toy—can help them feel more comfortable. If it’s a warm day, don’t forget a towel or wipes in case they get muddy or wet.
4. Exercise Before the Session
A short walk or some playtime before the session can make a world of difference. If your dog has had a chance to burn off some energy, they’ll be more relaxed and focused when it’s time to take photos. Just don’t overdo it—you still want them to look fresh (and not like they just finished a marathon!).
5. Consider Bringing a Helper
If you’re doing a full family session and want some photos without the dog, it’s a great idea to bring a friend or family member who can take the dog for a short walk while you finish up. It’s much easier than trying to juggle everything yourself, especially if you have young kids or are doing outfit changes.
Tips for bringing your dog to a photo session: What to Know Before You Go is all about keeping things simple, relaxed, and well-prepared. A little planning goes a long way when you’re including your dog, and with the right setup, your session can be both fun and full of sweet, memorable moments—fur and all.
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KIND VLOG
“If you want an amazing photo shoot, I can’t recommend Janice enough. From the moment we got to our shoot location she and her assistant made our whole family feel special and comfortable. They went out of their way to get great shots and were so great with my kiddos and dog. I couldn’t have been more pleased with the shoot and how the photos turned out. Thank you so much!!”
