Get Pets Ready for Photos
Many pet owners know how hard it can be to get really good images of a pet. They often won’t stay still or look where you want them to look. This is why hiring a photographer who specializes in and loves pets is a good idea. But even when you do this, there are still some things you need to do to get pets ready for photos.
If you have a pet that needs grooming, like my standard poodle Maggie (seen above), it is generally a good idea to get the grooming done about a week ahead of your scheduled photo session. This is for a couple reasons. Grooming can stress some pets out, and we do not want them anxious when they come for photos. Also, many dogs look their best about a week after they have been cut when the hair grows out a tiny bit. One thing to think about, keeping with the typical standards for your pet, is trying to get the hair out of their eyes. Getting light into the eyes brings extra life and spirit to the portrait, and it is something I always try to do if possible.
Whether your pet needs a full groom or not, make sure the nails are clipped. This is for two reasons: to keep us all from getting badly scratched if your pet suddenly moves or jumps and because trimmed nails look better in images. I forgot this when I photographed Maggie, and you can see her nails look long.
It is also a good idea to exercise your pet a few hours before the appointment. Pets are easier to pose when they are not chomping at the bit to run or play, but we do not want them exhausted either.
It is also good for your pet to be a bit hungry during the session. That way we can use treats to direct their eyes and to reward them for good behavior. I usually ask clients to bring some of their pets favorite treats with them to the photo session, as pets tend to like different things and some pets have allergies.
One of the best ways to get ready for photos is to train your pet. During the shoot I will ask you to help manage your pet and give you directions on how to move and what to do to get the images you will want. If your pet is well trained, we will use that to full advantage. However, if a pet knows just two commands, sit and stay, it can be tremendously helpful. You can better prepare for the session by teaching these commands, by working with a trainer or watching some online videos that will help you get your pet ready, as well as make your life easier in the future
If your pet cannot be off leash and stay where we need him or her to stay, then we will use a show lead to keep them in place. These are the types of leads you see in dog shows and they are thinner than a normal leash and therefore easier to remove from images. I will direct you how to use it to get what you want, and I have them in several colors.
I always ask pet parents to get themselves ready for photos as well. Capturing the connections between pet parents with their pets is one of my favorite things. Some parents say they do not want to be in pictures, but I can’t count the number of times I heard that and took the photos anyway, and the owners purchased those images. Come ready for images. If for some reason you do not want them when I show them to you, you do not have to buy, but I am warning you that most likely you will want them So wear clothes that you would like to be photographed in with your pet, whether that be an evening gown or a pair of Levi’s and a button down shirt. These images will be particularly precious to you when your pet passes on, always before we are ready for them to leave us.
My goal in all this is to create the art you want while also helping you and your pet create memories together. I try to make these sessions fun and stress free. I am tremendously patient and more than willing to wait for your pet to calm down or settle down. If a pet jumps on me or gives me a big kiss on the face, I will not be upset. I also recognize signs of stress or unease in a pet and make adjustments as needed to keep the pet comfortable.
So whether we create your pet portraits outside at a favorite place, in your home or backyard, or in my studio, taking the time to get your pet and yourself ready for photos is an investment that pays off. The images we make will become cherished memories and beautiful art for you to enjoy.
Here is a brief video on teaching sit and stay:
