I love the idea of personalizing my clients family photo sessions! After all, there’s no family quite like yours, right?! So, when clients make a request to include their family pet into their session, how could I say “neigh”?! (if you stay with me after that dumb joke, you’re the real MVP)
Working with animals and people is a whole new ball game. You think it’s difficult to make a toddler look at you? Try getting a tortoise to cooperate! (Spoiler, I don’t know how to get a tortoise to cooperate) But, here are a few quick tips for a successful, pet friendly photo session.
4. Intriguing noises. A trick l like to use on dogs is to have a variety of “squeak toy” sound effects on my phone. (you can just Google “squeak toy noises”) When everyone is in position i press ‘play’ and this prompts Fido to look towards the camera. Don’t over do it, though, or he might lose interest. Also, some animals respond well to a crinkled plastic or paper bag or a whistle.
5. Keep it clean! If your pet is a dog, remember to bring some waste bags for quick clean up. For yourself, bring a lint roller for rogue pet hair. Also, a brush to keep your pet looking his best! If it’s particularly warm, bring water for your pets. And if you have a very energetic dog, take him for a walk beforehand so that he’ll be more cooperative during the session.
6. Finally, be flexible. The more relaxed you are the more relaxed everyone will be. Let go of perfection and enjoy the session. You are much more likely to love your photos if you loved your time during the photo session.
7. Bonus tip: If all else fails, make sure your photographer knows how to use Photoshop!
So have fun and don’t be afraid to include your furry family members into your session! Years later, you’ll be glad you did!
If you’d like to see a dreamy boho newborn photo session, please check out Chelseys work in this Cleveland Newborn Photographer blog post!
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Oh m gosh I would love to photograph a horse! How fun!
It was fun! Thanks! 🙂
Love these gorgeous images! Ive always wanted a horse and this one is such a beauty!
thank you so much!
Love this gorgeous horse and session! So fun!
Wow, these are so stunning and extra special including the furry family members!
Seriously the one with her sitting next to the horse and the laughing ones are the BEST!!! OMG, love it! Great tips!
Such great tips and especially love that last one, lol!
What great tips and I especially love that last one, so true!