How to Prepare Your Dog for a Professional Photography Session

A little preparation goes a long way, but the most important thing you can bring is simply your dog, just as they are.

Every Dog Is Different

One of the first things people tell me is that their dog won't sit still or doesn't know many commands. Please don't worry.

Over the years I've photographed energetic puppies, nervous rescue dogs, senior dogs and those who would rather sniff every blade of grass than look at the camera. Every one of them has beautiful photographs.

Your dog doesn't need to perform. They simply need to be themselves.

Before Your Session

A gentle, but short, walk beforehand often helps your dog arrive feeling relaxed rather than overexcited as well as giving them the opportunity of going to the toilet before we start our ‘work’.  Please make sure during the hot months to keep this to a minimum as we don’t want to photograph a dog with a long and lolling tongue.

We offer a selection of healthy and natural treats, but please bring a few favourite treats as well just in case ours don’t get their nod of approval.  If your dog has one, bring a special toy that always gets their attention. Props, example a special bow tie, a favourite blanket etc, can act as a wonderful reminder of your time with your pet.  Those little things can make all the difference.

Grooming

There's no need for perfection.

A quick brush and a clean face are usually all that's needed.  In fact, for those dogs who regularly have their fur trimmed, we prefer to have that take place a week ahead of your photography so that the fur has had time to grow into a more natural shape; we don’t want to see exactly where the scissors did their work.

Don't worry about a few scratches, muddy paws or a grey muzzle. Those are part of your pet's story, and sometimes they're exactly the details you'll treasure years from now.

Do They Need to Be Off Lead?

Not at all.

Your dog's safety is always our priority.

If they need to stay on a lead, that's absolutely fine. In most cases it can be removed during editing, allowing your dog to explore safely while still creating natural-looking portraits.

Should You Be in the Photos?

Many people book a session thinking they only want portraits of their dog.

By the end, they're often so pleased they stepped in front of the camera too.

The relationship you share with your pet is just as important as the portraits themselves, and those images often become family favourites.

Relax and Enjoy It

The best photographs don't come from perfect behaviour.

They come from trust, patience and allowing your dog's personality to shine.

That's why I encourage owners to relax and simply enjoy spending time with their pet. Those genuine moments almost always become the ones you'll treasure most.

From Behind the Camera

One of my favourite things to hear is, "I'm sorry, my dog's a bit crazy,” or “I’m sorry, my dog is very shy or scared of strangers’.

I've learned that those are often the dogs with the biggest personalities—and the photographs that make their families smile the most.

A Thought to Take AwayYour dog doesn't need perfect manners to create beautiful portraits. They simply need the freedom to be themselves.

Ready to book your dog's session? Get in touch

Click Me

or check out what's included under Investment