6 Tips For Including Your Dog in Your Photo Session | Boston LGBTQ+ Photographer
I suppose there are some people out there who don’t like dogs, but in my experience, they’re not usually my clients. Dog content gets so much love on my Instagram. And while I don’t have a dog myself, I’ll never say no to some dog snuggles. So if you’re wondering if you can bring your dog to your session, the answer is yes! Here are some important things to consider when you’re planning to include your dog in your photo session, whether it’s a family session, engagement session, or even a newborn session!
Check to see if your location allows dogs.
While many of the locations I frequent allow dogs, there are definitely a good number of places that don’t. If you think you might want to bring your dog to your photo session, the first thing to check is whether your preferred location allows dogs. If it’s somewhere I go often, I might already know. But if not, we can both do some research and find a location that will work best for you and your dog. Locations that have farm animals, manicured gardens, beaches, and some properties owned by organizations like Mass Audubon or Trustees typically don’t allow dogs or may limit dog access to certain seasons.
2. Bring a friend!
I highly recommend bringing a friend or family member as your dog wrangler, particularly if you have a puppy. Most people don’t want every single photo of their session to include the dog, so it’s helpful to have someone who can keep them entertained. This allows you to stay focused and relaxed while you’re being photographed. Your dog wrangler can also call your pup’s name to get them to look at the camera!
3. Don’t forget the treats and squeaky toy.
Regardless of whether you bring someone to help with your dog, treats are a must! They’ll keep your dog motivated to participate and help them feel comfortable if they’re a little camera shy. I often end up holding some treats so that your dog will be interested in looking at the camera. A squeaky toy can be a huge help with this as well- I can squeak it next to the camera and they’ll look right at me.
4. Tire your pup out before the session.
It’s tough to get good photos if your dog has the zoomies while we’re trying to get them in the frame. Consider taking them for a longer walk or trip to the dog park in advance so that they will be nice and calm for your photos.
5. Get simple collar and leash that compliment what you plan to wear.
A solid color or something neutral is a great option. Unless your dog is extremely well behaved and your location allows it, you probably won’t take them off the leash, so it will be in the pictures. Make sure you like how it looks and that it isn’t too distracting (neon, highly patterned, reflective). Check out my post about what to wear to your photo session if you want some ideas about what looks good!
6. Go with the flow!
Just like with kids, you really can’t predict what your dog will do, so it’s good to head into the session with a flexible mindset. They might do everything you ask and be a perfect model…or they might not. Either way, we’re guaranteed to get some adorable shots as long as you let your dog take the lead!
Thinking about setting up a session that includes your dog? Send me a message!
I can’t wait to hear from you and meet your furry friend.
Thanks to Auggie, Capone, Remy, Addy, Chuie, Hazel, Sophie, Fozzie, Meadow, Winston, Guster, Cooley, and Pork Chop for their fantastic modeling skills.