Tips for bringing pets to your photography session
My goodness, I am beyond grateful for all the wonderful furry family members who have joined my sessions this past year. It feels like nearly 80% of my sessions have included beloved pups and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Some of the most special moments have been with senior pets, and with your permission, I’ve happily helped pose them or even carried them over rough terrain. One of my favorite memories from this past season was holding an older pup while his family got into position for their portrait—it was such a sweet, heartfelt moment.
As an animal lover myself, I completely understand how important our pets are to our families. (Though I have to admit, all of your well-behaved pups have put my little Miss Lucy to shame—she loves to misbehave!) After many sessions with furry friends, I’ve put together a few helpful tips to make sure your session goes smoothly and everyone, including your pets, has a great time.
Dog kisses!
Bring a Leash & Collar
While many dogs are fantastic off-leash, their safety is always my top priority. Some of our beautiful outdoor locations are near busy roads or have wildlife nearby, so having a leash on hand is essential. If you’d like a few photos without your pup in the frame, I recommend bringing a leash that can be staked or tied to a tree instead of having me hold them—this way, your images will turn out even better!
Additionally, ensuring your pet has a collar with up-to-date identification tags is crucial. While I’ve never had a pet run off during a session, I know from personal experience (looking at you, Miss Lucy!) that some breeds have an independent streak. If your dog were to get away, having proper contact information on their tags can make all the difference in quickly reuniting with them.
Happy pup
Pack Water & Treats
Photography sessions, especially in the summer months, can be warm, and staying hydrated is key—for both you and your pup! Colorado’s dry climate and high elevation can take a toll, so bringing water for both of you is a great idea.
Treats can also be a wonderful tool! Not only do they serve as positive reinforcement, but they can also help me grab your pup’s attention for those picture-perfect moments. However, if your dog is easily distracted by treats, keep them out of sight until we need them!
A boy and his dog!
Come Without Expectations
Just like with little kids, I want our furry family members to have fun during the session. I never expect them to “perform” or pose perfectly. The best photos come when pets are just being themselves—checking in with you for kisses, nose nuzzles, or simply enjoying the moment. Some of my favorite shots aren’t of dogs looking directly at the camera but rather looking up at their humans with pure love and devotion.
I can’t wait to meet more of your wonderful pets and capture these special moments for your family. If you have any questions about including your furry friends in your session, just let me know—I’d love to help make the experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible!
Family Photograph with senior pup!
Including your pets in your family photography session adds an extra layer of love and warmth to your memories. With a little preparation and a lot of fun, we can create stunning images that include your whole family - furry members included.
Whether they’re playful puppies, gentle seniors, or somewhere in between, every pet brings unique joy to a session. I can’t wait to capture those precious moments for you and your family!
