It’s no secret that I’m a huge animal lover! Jake and I are obsessed with our cute coonhound mixes Zeke and Nola. Before we had Zeke, I was definitely a crazy cat lady! I LOVE it when my couples choose to include their pets in their engagement pictures or even their wedding pictures. I love getting to meet all of my couples fur babies and getting to capture their personalities. It’s always a fun time. Here are 6 tips to consider when including your pets in your photos.
1. Bring Treats
Bring a bag of your pet’s favorite treats to your session. This is a great way for me to get your pet’s attention and have them look at the camera. Plus, you can reward them for their good behavior throughout the shoot.
2. Bring a friend
If you’re brining your pet to a longer session with multiple outfits and locations, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member. Have your friend bring your pet to the location for the last 20 minutes of the session. That way, you won’t have to make your pet wait in the car or worry about your pet whatsoever.
3. Invest in a nice leash/collar
Make sure that the collar and leash that your pet will be wearing is something that you want photographed. If you have a leash that has a plastic handle, a lot of times it’s distracting in pictures with your pet. Invest in a simple and clean leash that won’t be a distraction.
4. Bring a lint roller
Be sure to bring a lint roller to your session with you! It’s inevitable that you’ll get at least some pet hair on you during the pictures. Bring a lint roller in case you want any more poses after you’ve picked up your animal.
5. Consider accessorizing
If you’re the type of people that like to dress your pet up, consider getting them a coordinating bandana or collar for the shoot! I had one couple dress their dog up in a little tuxedo shirt for their engagement pictures, and the shots were so cute!
6. Relax and have fun!
Chances are your pet will not want to cooperate for most of the pictures. Don’t worry about that! I’m definitely used to it! I will take lots of pictures and we’re sure to get at least a couple good ones and lots of fun candid ones. Some of the best pictures with pets are the candid ones. Just relax and have fun!
