Your dog is your best friend, your furry baby, a devoted and loyal ally on the journey through life. Although they can’t be with us forever, we can capture their spirit and their hearts through photography. Sometimes photographing your pet can be a challenge, though. They may be distracted by the new environment and so excited they only want to play. With the right tools, you can help them focus and help the photographer snag the perfect shot. Here are my top tips to use on set.
Tip 1: Treats and Toys
These work great for behavior modification. Give the command “Sit”, then reward with a treat. Even give a few to the photographer.
If your dog is play-motivated, toys can work in the same manner. Have the photographer hold a ball over the camera and your dog is sure to look at the lens.
Tip 2: Choose Your Location Wisely
Do you have a favorite place you take your dog to? Maybe one that you go every week for walks. Is there a room in your home that he or she loves to spend time in? Yes, sometimes having a session in your home or backyard is idea. Choosing a location is important because you want a place they are familiar with. One where they know the smells, the sights and the general area. Not only will this make you feel comfortable, it will make your dog comfortable too.
Tip 3: Get Down to Your Dog’s Level
Instead of standing and being high overhead, crouch, sit or lie on the floor. You’ll be able to look your pet in the eye, create an emotional connection and talk softly to them. It sounds cheesy but locking eyes with your dog and speaking to them in a gentle manner helps them focus. You’ll also be close enough to them where you can give them a treat if they start to back away, move or do something you don’t want them to do.
Tip 4: Know Their Personality
If your dog is energetic, you may be in store for a fast-paced photoshoot that feels chaotic. If your dog is lazy and a little lethargic, you might to entice them to do certain things.
Either way, use what you know to your advantage. Let them run and play and get some of that energy out or sit down with them and allow them to be a cuddle bug.
Tip 5: Remember to Have Fun
We know our dogs aren’t around for our entire lifetime so enjoy every moment you have with them. Including the ones where you’re “on set”. Laugh a little (heck, laugh a lot) and be silly with them. While it might be hard to release some tension and stress, just have fun with the photoshoot. Trust your photographer and understand that they are the expert at taking beautiful pictures and editing the photos so they look amazing.
If you’re looking to get photos taken with your dog, you’re in luck!
We’ll be releasing information very soon about our Limited-Edition Dog Sessions so get on the list!
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