helpful tips
Canine Portraits Prep Guide
Welcome to your complimentary prep guide for your dog photoshoot! The personal tips and tricks below are ones I have learned over many years of photographing dogs, and following this guide will ensure your photoshoot will be an enjoyable success, resulting in stunning artwork created from your own dogs beauty and the relationship you have with them.
The Setup
Our goal when selecting a location is to choose an environment that truly complements your dog and highlights their unique personality. For example, if you’re photographing a hunting breed, we may look for open fields with tall grasses that reflect their natural instincts and energy. Conversely, for smaller dogs, we’ll seek out settings that help them stand out—spaces that elevate their presence and make them feel larger-than-life within the landscape. Each location is chosen thoughtfully to create imagery that feels authentic to your dog’s character.
While I always have a selection of thoughtfully chosen locations in mind, I truly value when clients suggest places that hold personal significance. Shooting in a meaningful setting not only enhances the overall experience, but also creates images that feel deeply authentic and emotionally resonant. These locations often lead to more memorable sessions and photographs that you will cherish for years to come.
Grooming
Prior to your session, please ensure your dog is freshly bathed and well-groomed. If your dog’s coat requires specialized care or routine maintenance, consider scheduling a professional grooming appointment beforehand so they arrive looking their absolute best. Proper preparation helps create clean, polished images that showcase your dog beautifully.
Keep in mind that the attention you invest in grooming plays a significant role in the overall quality and refinement of your final images.
Zoomies!
If your dog has extra energy or is likely to be overly excited after being indoors, it’s beneficial to let them release that energy prior to the session. A brief play session or walk helps ensure we begin with a calmer, more focused dog who is ready to cooperate. This also reduces any built-up stress and creates a more relaxed, positive atmosphere for the session.
If I observe signs of stress or overstimulation during our time together, we may pause briefly to allow your dog to decompress and have a little fun. These short breaks help remind them that the experience is enjoyable and support a smoother, more successful session overall.
Practice!
Although a perfectly executed sit-stay is not required, having a basic understanding of these foundational commands can be extremely beneficial. Even simple obedience skills help sessions run more smoothly and allow us to capture a wider variety of images.
Leashes
In many cases, your dog will remain on a leash during the session. This approach provides the most consistent and effective means of communication, allowing clear guidance from handler to dog throughout our time together. It also removes the pressure of relying on a ‘perfect’ stay command, helping to prevent frustration for both you and your pet. Keeping the leash on supports a smoother workflow and ensures the experience remains positive and enjoyable for everyone involved. Leashes and any collars not wanted in photos will be removed in post production.
What to have during your session
After completing these preparations, your dog will be fully ready for the session. To maintain a polished, photo-ready appearance throughout your shoot, I recommend keeping a few essentials close by. The six items I suggest having on hand are:
- Brush
- Soft Rag
- Favorite toys!
- Treats!
- Any special collars
To keep in mind!
Please note that any retouching beyond what is already included may come with an additional per-image fee. To ensure the best possible results, please take a moment to review and follow the recommendations outlined in this guide.
Last but not least... Have fun with your dog(s)!
