I completely agree that fur babies are an important part of the family. Here are some tips to ensure a great session with your dog.
- Know Your Dog: I brought our beloved lab on several photoshoots, ignoring that she was an anxious dog. Predictably, she HATED it! Our photos showed her ears pinned back and anxious panting–not the memories of her we wanted. After a discussion with our photographer, we decided that future sessions would be in our home. She was so much more comfortable and relaxed in her own home!
- Bring Comfort Items: Consider what your dog will need to feel relaxed and at ease. Do they need to play ball at the beginning of the session to burn off some energy? Do they need a favorite stuffy or ball to keep them company? Also, don’t forget to bring a water bowl and a bag of treats!
- Plan for Partial Participation: Just like babies, dogs have a limited capacity for posing. It might be helpful to have a family member or friend ready to take your dog after they’ve participated in some photos. If you live nearby and have two adults at the session, one adult can take the dog home while the other stays with me for photos of them and the rest of the family. This is a great time for individual shots.
By preparing in advance, we can create a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, including your furry family members!
