So sweet, so snuggly – I’ve photographed a lot of fuzzy pups with their parents over the years. Maybe you’ve been thinking about how to include your dog in engagement photos, too. I’m here to give you the best tips on how to make sure they behave, what to expect and what to remember if you’ll be bringing your beloved pooch to your session.
BRING AN EXTRA HAND TO HELP
Arrive early, and bring a helper (preferably someone who knows your dog well helps even more). I always suggest to my couples that they bring a helper and that we begin their session with their dog. Why? Because then the helper will not only help get the attention of your beloved pup – but when they lose interest and we’re ready to head to the next location your dog isn’t waiting in the car or tied to a tree. While I love when couples bring their dogs to sessions, it’s not much fun for them or their dog if they’ve been tied up to a tree and are barking or whining. Make sure your dog is happy – you’ll be happier in the end, too!
LET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER KNOW AHEAD OF TIME
Definitely let your photographer know ahead of time that you’ll be bringing your pup along to your session! Why? Certain locations may not allow for animals, but also I always want to make sure we have the best backdrop, the least amount of extra people (which will distract your dog), and we can prepare to take a little extra time to chat before the session to make sure your dog gets used to the area & me!
BRING TREATS!
Bring a few treats – your extra helper can hang onto those and hand me a few if needed. Most likely I won’t know your dog ahead of time so it’s always best to have a way for me to get their attention & give them a little extra love for sitting nice!
Mogie made his appearance!
LET THEM GET USED TO THE AREA & PEOPLE
Plan to arrive early & let your dog explore the area where we’ll be starting your session so they calm down and get used to the area and the people in the area. I don’t want your session to be stressful and this is one of the top stress-inducing items on the list. We all know how calm & cuddly your pup is at home, but take them out to a new location after a fun ride in the car and they’re ready to run & play. So let them explore a little before they’re supposed to look calm & cuddly!
BRING A LINT ROLLER!
Don’t forget to bring a lint roller – that way if you aren’t ready to change into your second outfit yet we don’t have to worry about pet hair on every single thing!
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED
Have fun, enjoy your time, play with your dog and expect the unexpected. Why? Because we all know that your pup probably doesn’t look at the camera every single time you snap a photo at home either. Let’s get some shots of you walking together, playing on the ground and we’ll try for some looking at the camera too. Relax & enjoy your session – and I promise you’ll love the photos too!
We also had to include Maggie & Justin’s dog Luna… because well… she’s so darn cute!
DON’T FORGET THE WEDDING DAY!
If you live close enough to your venue, think about sneaking your pup in for a single photo or two for a little icing on the cake!
Looking for a photographer for your big day? Contact me for more information at christy@christyjphotography.com or by clicking here to go to my contact page.
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I’m on a mission to craft personalized sessions for small businesses and high school seniors looking to tell their story.
The best decision I ever made was packing up my car and heading west to finally pursue photography! That decision allowed me to spend the next 15 years capturing life’s fleeting moments.
But the journey is bigger than that. My work isn’t just about capturing a beautiful photo, it’s about changing the perspective, helping others see what true beauty is.
It would be an honor to have you along for the ride!
Eau Claire Brand, Senior and Family Photographer
HI THERE, I’M CHRISTY!
Currently: lacing up the old hiking boots and preparing for my next adventure.
