How To Prepare your Dog for a Photoshoot!

Here are some tips for your pup’s upcoming photo shoot!

First, having patience will be the most important thing to remember during our shoot. It can be scary for the dog the first time being in front of a camera and sitting near tall stands and a tall backdrop. Dogs can pick up on our emotions, this should be an enjoyable experience for you and your pup! Don’t worry if they aren’t on their very best behavior! We are on their schedule, we will take it slow and we are going to have so much fun!

What we will need:

A Simple Leash

I am an expert at leash removal in Photoshop. The leash will keep your pup safe while we are outside, the leash is also an invaluable tool in helping your dog understand where we’d like them to sit or stand, since we can’t simply tell them to stand right in this sun spot and look to your left.

There are a few things to consider about your leash to make removal in post production as simple as possible.

• Bring a solid color 6 foot leash.

• Help watch out for leashes wrapped around legs & paws.

Next, a photogenic collar.

While leashes are removed from the photos, your dog’s collar will remain in their portrait, so it’s worth a few minutes to think about which collar will bets suit your dog’s photos.

For a timeless look, a simple leather (or faux leather) collar in a neutral color will keep your dog’s images timeless and classic!

Or try a solid color or with a fun pattern can also be a great choice.

Next, leave the metal tags off.

Those tags are great for if your dog were to get lost, but maybe aren’t so great for a portrait hanging on your wall.

Just for your session, I recommend removing all tags unless they are particularly beautiful or sentimental.

Harnesses are great for walking, but not for portraits.

Who knew dogs had so many accessories to consider! Let’s leave the harness for hiking.

Lastly, treats & rewards!

When it comes to your dog’s photo shoot, it’s time to bring out the good stuff. We’re going to be asking for a lot of their time, energy & attention and we want your dog to be excited to work for the camera!

You know your dog best, so bring the high value rewards. I’ll have a few for us to use as well.

This is time for special occasion treats:

Training treats

Cheese

Peanut Butter

Be sure to bring options some treats for your pups close up! I will have a few special treats as well if you forget!

Can’t wait to see you and your furry family member!