Pets are family too, and including them in your next family photography session can be a lot of fun. Still, it’s crucial to ensure you’ve prepared, so the experience is enjoyable for you AND your furry friend.
Here are six tips you should keep in mind for including your pet.
6 Tips for A Successful Family Photo Session with Your Pet
- Choose a location that is comfortable for your pet. The same holds true for your little ones as well. If your kids or your pet are uncomfortable or don’t feel safe, they aren’t likely to cooperate during the session. Pick a spot familiar to your pet or somewhere they enjoy spending time.
- Allow plenty of time. Pets are unpredictable, so having extra time ensures that everyone has a good. While it might seem like a good idea to do a shorter session, mini-sessions are probably not the best if you are trying to include your furry friend.
- Connect with your dog. Lifestyle photography is about capturing the connection between family members, and this includes Fido. So be prepared to hug, kiss, and cuddle with your pets, just like you’ll be doing with the little ones or your spouse. Show them some love, and don’t worry if they aren’t sitting the right way. Just enjoy them!
- Take breaks as needed. If your pet starts to get tired or restless, take a break! Bring a good leash, or better yet, someone to take over if they need a break. I promise you’ll be more relaxed as well.
- Relax and keep things fun. The more fun you have, the more your pet will likely have a good time. They are very perceptive and will feed off your energy, so try to relax and enjoy the experience. Bring their favorite toy or ball so that you can just relax and play.
- Hire a photographer that is comfortable with pets. Just like you wouldn’t hire a family photographer who isn’t comfortable around kids, you shouldn’t expect a photographer who isn’t comfortable with pets to be able to capture your fur baby at their best.
With these pet photography tips in mind, you ensure that everyone, including your fur baby has fun during your family session. Remember to take your time, be prepared, and keep things relaxed!
How To Get the Perfect Photo of Your Four-Legged Friend at Home
If you’re having trouble getting a good photo of your furry friend at home, here are a few tips to get that perfect shot.
- Bribe them with treats – Having a few treats on hand will help keep your pet’s attention while you take their photo.
- Get down on their level – Getting down on your pet’s level will help you capture them more naturally.
- Let them be themselves – Don’t try to force it; just go with the flow.
If you’re planning a family photography session with your furry friend, reach out to me! With two fur babies at home, I know what to expect and how to make your session with Fido a success!
Leigh Ann – Your Oakland, CA, Family and Newborn Photographer, serving perfectly imperfect families. And remember, I serve families throughout the Bay Area.
P.S. Be sure to signup below for my monthly newsletter, where you can get tips and tricks for capturing your own adventures with your family and early access to my shoot dates.
