How to Prepare for a Dog Photo Shoot in the Studio: Tips and Tricks for a Successful Session
Having a photo shoot can be one of the most fun things you can do with your dog! It helps to know what to expect. I’m here to help!
You will need to make sure the dog is ready for the session. Below I will go over some of the ins and outs of dog photo sessions and how to prepare. These tips and tricks will help both you and your dogs get the most out of your photography session.
Research the studio and photographer to make sure it’s a good fit
Before booking a dog photo session, it is important to do your research and make sure you are choosing the right photographer for your pet photography needs. It's essential to find someone who understands how to work with animals and will have the patience and skill needed for a successful session.
Additionally, you'll want to ensure that they use professional equipment and can provide quality prints or digital images of your photos. Be sure to read reviews online or ask friends who may have had experience in similar sessions before making a decision.
Ultimately, finding the perfect photographer can help make all the difference when it comes time to show your pet's personality.
How much experience does Watkins Photography have with pet photography?
I've been taking pet portraits for over three years. Watkins Photography has produced beautiful studio and on-location images for pet owners all over the PNW. As a professional photographer, I do my very best to give pets the best experience possible.
I know that not all dogs are the same. Many dogs can be nervous about a portrait session, and most have never taken part in any kind of professional photoshoot. That's totally fine! I'm happy to give owners and dogs all the guidance they need to be successful.
I'm willing to plan ahead as far as needed. The most important thing is that owners and dogs feel comfortable and are able to relax during a pet photoshoot.
Choose outfits for you and your pup that will look great in photos
For pet parents wanting the images from their dog photoshoot to look fantastic, it’s important to choose clothing that not only looks good on the pet parent but also will bring out the beauty of the puppy in the photos.
For pet parents, solid-colored clothing such as dresses or tops in shades of white, gray, black, and navy will look best in photos.
Additionally, avoid wearing clothes that are too busy or have eye-catching patterns as they can draw attention away from the pup’s face. For the dog, you may want to coordinate with your clothing choices and opt for a matching bandana, collar or bow tie. This will ensure that all eyes are on your pup.
Having an article of clothing that matches (or almost matches) your dog's collar or bandana helps tie the photo together and sends a message that you and your dog are connected
Get your dog groomed before the session
It is important to get your dog groomed before a photo shoot. This means you should take them to a special appointment where someone will make sure their fur, nails, and other parts are neat. This helps the photos look nice so everyone can see how beautiful your dog is, as well as see their true personality.
Watkins Photography is also very familiar with grooming services in the area and is happy to recommend businesses that will take care of your dog's nails and hair in one easy grooming appointment. We do everything we can to make sure you get the best pet portraits possible.
Train your dog on basic commands
Training a dog on basic commands can make taking pictures easier. Commands like sit, stay, come and other commands help the dog know what to do when it is time to take the photo. This can help them look good in pictures and be more cooperative during the session. Just a little training can help produce photos you'll treasure forever.
Puppies don't need to know every command to have a successful photo shoot. But if you teach them some commands it can help make the session go more smoothly. It will also help keep the dog focused and stop them from running around too much.
Bring treats to reward good behavior during the session
It's always a great idea for dog owners to bring a treat to dog photoshoots to keep their dog motivated throughout. These provide positive reinforcement and can help make for a fun experience for your dog. Also, make sure to feed your dog before the session. Nobody wants a photo of a hungry pup.
It's important to bring high-value snacks so your dog is more engaged - like peanut butter or cheese cubes which dogs tend to find particularly rewarding! Bring anything that you know will keep your dog's attention toward the camera lens.
Not only will it serve as a reward for good behavior, but it will also give your dog something tasty and satisfying during the photo session that will give you great photos filled with joy, excitement, and fun from your pooch.
Make sure you have all necessary items for the shoot
To ensure a successful dog photo session, pet owners need do everything they can to bring all necessary supplies. This includes things like leashes, collars and toys that your pup loves. These could be put to great use in the event that you have to take your dog for a walk.
Having these items with you will help keep your dog happy and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. Additionally, it’s important to have safety items such as a blanket, mat or poop bags in case the dog needs to take a break.
Bringing these items will help make sure your pup is comfortable during the shoot and can help them stay focused on taking photographs!
Plan props or special requests for the photographer if desired
If you want your dog to look extra special in the photos, consider adding some props or making special requests of the photographer.
Props can add an interesting element to photos and make them stand out. You may want to bring things such as blankets, favorite toys, and bandanas, or even allow your pup to wear clothing for the shoot. Some photographers may also be willing to do special requests such as creating a custom backdrop or taking pictures at a certain location.
If you have any specific ideas, make sure to communicate them with the photographer in advance so they can be prepared for the session.
Be prepared to take breaks throughout the session as needed
Taking breaks during a pet photo session can be an incredibly important part of the process. With some pets having excess energy, it can be hard for them to focus or stay still during a session.
Exercise or walking your dog before a session is a good way to help direct their energy and keep them focused during the shoot. A nice walk will help them work off some of that extra energy they may have as a young pup.
It's important for them to also have treats to reward their behavior and keep them interested in the task at hand. High-value treats like freeze-dried treats or small treats with strong scents will entice your pet and help make sure they remain engaged in the photoshoot.
Breaks throughout the session will give everyone involved - photographer, owners, and especially pets - a chance to relax, take a breath, maybe a quick walk, and come back refreshed so that everyone has a successful and enjoyable photo session.
Conclusion
Preparing for a dog photo shoot in the studio doesn't have to be stressful or overwhelming. Start by doing your research and finding a good fit with the studio and photographer. Get to know them on a personal level to understand their approach, working style, and personality.
Next, prepare your dog for the shoot by learning simple commands that can quickly help regain control at any time during the session. Help make your pet feel comfortable by walking them or exercising before going for the photo session, which will help remove excess energy or potential emotions that could be triggered once at the location.
Finally, follow some of the simple tips for making sure you create a beautiful image – get creative with outfits, listen to ideas from a professional photographer, and don’t forget to involve family members if desired! With these few tips in mind, you can confidently prepare yourself and your pup to look fabulous in its next portrait session!
