So you've finally decided to have professional photos taken of you with your furry friend and why shouldn't you? Our fur babies bring so much joy to our lives as they are our devoted friends and trusted confidants. They are loving, silly and playful and there is no better way to celebrate their loyalty then by memorializing them in beautiful artwork. To help you prepare for your special day, here are some tips to keep in mind:
CONSIDER THE TYPE OF ARTWORK YOU WANT US TO CREATE TOGETHER
Before you head to your photo session, think about the kind of artwork you want to display. Maybe you want a few statement pieces in canvas or metal to hang on your walls or perhaps a beautiful album or portrait box to display on your coffee table or bookcase.
Take a moment to visualize where you want to show off your portraits. Is your home modern and chic or traditional and cozy? It's important to consider what surroundings you enjoy the most and what kind of scenery would suit those spaces. For example, a photo session in the bustling downtown city streets would be perfect for a modern living space, but it might not fit in with the comfy vibe of a warm reading nook. The same goes for colors too. If your décor is beach inspired then a session in the woods might not be the best choice.
Discuss your ideas with your photographer as they can give you recommendations to suit your style and preferences.
PLAN THE PERFECT CUSTOM PHOTO SESSION WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Good communication is key to planning a successful photo session. To bring your vision to life, your photographer needs to learn about you and your pet. That is why a Planning Call is so important. During the call, we'll talk about your pet's personality, the ideal location, and the best time of day for your shoot. It's also important to consider your pet's comfort and energy level to achieve the desired results while having a good time.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCATION
The location you choose for your dog photo session is important. Talk with your photographer and explore locations that are familiar and comfortable for your furry friend. While outdoor spots such as parks and beaches can provide stunning backgrounds, take note of the time of day and weather conditions for the shoot. Opt for a spot that ensures your dog's ease and comfort, as this will allow them to shine in the photos!
GROOM YOUR PET BUT DON'T GO CRAZY
We know you want your pet to look their best in the photos, but don't stress too much about their appearance. If you prefer your furry friend to be well-groomed, consider scheduling a professional dog grooming session or pampering them at home a day or two before the shoot. If you do it yourself, give them a good brush, trim their nails, and maybe give them a quick bath if they're really dirty. Same applies to your own hair and makeup! Whatever you decide, these photos are for you to cherish for many years to come, so do what feels right for you and your furry companion, and don't worry about following any rules!
GIVE YOUR PET A WALK... OR A NAP
To ensure that your furry companion is calm and relaxed during the session, consider taking them for a long walk in the morning. This is particularly essential if your dog has a lot of energy, as excessive movement can lead to blurry images.
For older dogs that are less active, it may be best to allow them to rest and sleep before the session. It's important to be aware of your dog's personality and determine what approach will work best for them, then plan accordingly.
BRING THEIR FAVORITE TOYS AND TREATS
Gather your pet's favorite treats and toys. Treats can be used to keep your dog still and looking their best for the camera, while toys like squeaky ones can help elicit cute and playful expressions. They are also useful in getting your pup to look directly at the camera.
For outdoor sessions, bring a water bottle and bowl for your pet, waste bags, a brush for grooming, and your best collar and leash. While photographers often use post processing to remove the leash, there are some photos that do contain the leash and your photos will look best with a nice, new one.
INCLUDE PROPS OR FUN ACCESORIES
Props or accessories are never required but if you wish to dress up your dog for the photo session, choose an outfit that is comfortable and fits well. You don't want your dog to be distracted or uncomfortable during the shoot. Simple accessories like a bandana, nice collar or a cute bowtie can also add a pop of color without being too distracting.
SELECT AN OUTFIT FOR YOURSELF
Opt for something casual and comfortable that allows you to move around easily and play with your pet. For outdoor sessions, choose comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers. You should feel at ease and confident in your outfit for the photos. In case you are unsure of what to wear, you can refer to my family or couples session blogs on how to dress for a session.
HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER WHO LOVES PETS
When it comes to taking photos of your pets, it can be a little tricky. That's why it's important to find a photographer who has a love for animals! You want someone who knows how to make your furry friend feel at ease in front of the camera and capture those perfect shots. A professional pet photographer will have the experience to get those amazing photos of your pet that you'll treasure forever!
HAVE FUN!
Above all, relax and have fun! Don't worry too much about getting that flawless shot. Just enjoy the moments with your furry friend and the magic will unfold on its own. The most special pet photos are the ones that capture their individual personalities and the unique bond you share with them. So, let your pet be themselves and relish in the moment together!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Juliana Leschinsky focuses on capturing the exceptional connection between pets and their owners with stunning and artistic photography. Her photography style effortlessly captures the natural and genuine emotions and personalities of both the pet and owner. The end result is a collection of timeless and cherished images that perfectly showcase this special bond.