How to get your dog photo ready
Having dogs at a photo session is such a treat! And while I'm a cat person at heart, I fall straight into puppy love for every dog I meet. So whenever someone asks, "Can I bring my dog along?" The answer is always yes, please!
But before your dog turns into a supermodel, we'll need to get them ready for their 5-seconds of fame. Read on to fetch my best tricks for bringing your dog to a photo session.
Bring a designated dog sitter
Having an extra set of hands can really take the pressure off of a session. So bribe a friend, family member, or even my husband 😉 to come along on doggy duty. They can walk the dog around if they get too hyper and hold the treats while I snap your photo.
Treats and toys are a must
If you want your dog looking right into my camera, well then this is the secret sauce. Nothing gets a dog's attention quite like the shake of a treat bag or the squeak of a toy, which is why THIS IS MY #1 TIP. If I have their all-time favorites on hand they'll have no choice but to follow directions.
Dress up your pet too
While you're busy primping yourself, it's easy to forget about beautifying your 4-legged friend. And trust me, a little work goes a long way. Give them a bath, a good brush down, and match their collar to their leash. Or step it up a notch by adding a cute accessory like a bandana, bowtie, or flower crown.
Give your dog a good walk beforehand
The best way to have your dog relaxed and sitting still for a picture is, you guessed it, tiring them out! Get them out walking an hour or two before your session so they're feeling extra cuddly and sleepy for the photos. Plus, this stress-reliever can help you get any pre-photo nerves out too.
have a dog-gone good time
No matter what happens during your session, the more fun your having the better your photos will be. So if the dog's a bit hyper, you forget the treats at home, or your pet finds a mudbath while we're taking photos. I promise you, everything will turn out just fine!