7 Tips for Including Your Dog in Your Photo Session or Wedding Day | Dallas Wedding Photographer
People ask me all the time if they can incorporate their dog into their session or their wedding day. Um, seriously!? OF COURSE YOU CAN! Fluffy friends can make your photos even more special, and they’re part of the family!
Here are 7 tips for including your pup in your session or wedding day.
- Bring a helper! This is definitely my number one must-do if you plan to include your dog(s) in your session or wedding day. Have a friend come with you to try to get your pup’s attention (and bribe them with treats!) so they’ll look at the camera, and that can hold him or her in between shots, since we won’t include your pet in every photo. I recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and then having your friend take them home.
- Don’t forget water and treats. Definitely good for bribing pups to listen and look at the camera, and to make sure they stay hydrated (especially if it’s hot outside!).
- Consider your pup’s attire! Don’t forget to bring a cute leash, collar, and other accessories if you’d like (such as a cute bandana!).
- Choose a pet friendly location. Busy streets, congested downtown locations, and spots that do not permit dogs aren’t going to be the best options! I recommend finding a park with lots of open space.
- Time your dog’s grooming thoughtfully. I have literally rescheduled sessions because of groomings gone wrong. I get it! No one wants photos of themselves with a horrible haircut, including your dog! If you’re considering getting your dog groomed prior to your session, please be sure to tell your groomer exactly what you want them to do, so you can avoid any mishaps or unplanned short hair!
- Exercise before the session. It’s not a bad thing if your pup is tuckered about by the time their close up arrives! If they’re able to get out some of their energy right before the session, we might find that they’re more willing to listen and stay still during photos.
- Be prepared to be patient. It’s impossible to explain to a dog why you need to them to sit still and look at a camera. Sometimes, dogs are trickier than kids when it comes to photoshoots! But with some patience and lots of love and puppy snuggles, we’ll be sure to get some wonderful photos of you with your furry friends!
