Dogs play an integral part in our lives. From best friend and companion to emotional support and pure joy, your dog is family as far as I'm concerned, so it's no wonder that I get asked frequently "Can we bring our dog to our engagement session??"
I love dogs! In fact I love most animals, so if you are inclined to bring your cat, parakeet, tortoise, or cheetah to your engagement session, I'm here for it. But in reality, the most practical pet that most couple's want to bring along for photos is their dog!
BONUS FOR MY CAT LOVERS! Be sure to scroll alllll the way to the last photo for a little kitteh love.
So when I am asked, "can we bring our dog to the engagement session?", the short answer is: YES!
The longer answer is: YES, bringing your beloved pup to your engagement session can add a lot of personality and charm to the photos, but it does require some planning to ensure everything goes smoothly! After photographing hundreds of engagement sessions, I've put together a comprehensive list of helpful tips for including your dog at your engagement photo session:
1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCATION
As a dog-owner, you are aware of the rules and regulations surrounding having your dog along. This extends to photo locations that are public land. If you are a booked client of mine, we will discuss options during the planning stage of engagement photos. This includes not only dog-friendly locations, but locations that are crowded, distracting, or potentially stressful for your dog (or you!). You want to choose a location where your dog will feel comfortable and relaxed, which could mean a more remote location with plenty of open space for them to roam with less distractions. On the other hand, if your dog is used to hiking busy trails and doesn't care about other people or dogs, that opens up a wider variety of locations.
2. BRING A HELPER!
This is crucial. I strongly recommend bringing along someone who can assist, watch your dog while you are taking photos without him / her, carry treats, and provide post-session care once the photos with your dog are done. This uses your session time more efficiently, reduces your stress, and allows you to focus on the photos.
3. KEEP YOUR DOG ON A LEASH (WHEN NEEDED)
Always keep your dog on a leash, especially in busy or unfamiliar places. This ensures their safety and the safety of those around you, and allows you to control their movements. If you're worried about the leash being visible in photos, don't be! We can hide the leash or remove it during the editing process.
4. ARRIVE EARLY
Plan to arrive to the session location at least 15 minutes early, to allow your dog to sniff and explore the area prior to the start of photos. This helps put them at ease, gets extra energy and excitement out, and sets the tone for your session.
5. PLAN FOR BREAKS AND SNACKS
Bring water for your dog, especially if it's hot outside, and some favorite treats to keep them motivated and happy during the photo session. Be prepared to allow for breaks during the session so your dog can rest or reset if as needed.
6. BRING FAVORITE TOYS OR COMFORT ITEMS
Bring your dog's favorite toy or blanket. This can help them feel more at ease and may encourage them to interact in a more natural way, which translates to better photos!
7. MAKE SURE YOUR DOG IS COMFORTABLE WITH PHOTOS
If your dog is camera-why or easily distracted, it may help to practice a few simple tricks or commands before the session to help them stay focused. If your dog is anxious or easily exciteable around strangers, it may be helpful for all of us to arrive 15 minutes early for the session to meet-and-greet prior to diving into your photos.
8. CONSIDER YOUR OUTFITS
Choose outfits that are comfortable and practical, especially if you will be including your dog! You want to avoid clothing that is too formal or can easily get dirty. Consider your pet's fur and the color of your clothes, and bring a lint roller or wet wipes in case things get messy. I can edit out some fur, but an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
9. THINK ABOUT YOUR DOG'S BEHAVIOR
If your dog gets tired, uncooperative, or cranky during the session, it's absolutely okay to take a short break or switch up the environment! Forcing them to stay in the session when they're not enjoying it will only lead to stress. Let me know if your dog is anxious or easily stressed and some words or sounds that they might respond positively to.
10. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
Discuss any expectations you might have prior to the engagement session. I need to know ahead of time if you plan to bring your dog so that I can prepare and adjust my shooting style to ensure your dog is included in the photos in a way that is natural and fun. If there are any specific moments you want to capture with your dog, such as a close-up photo or a candid moment, please let me know that too!
11. BE FLEXIBLE AND HAVE FUN!
Expect the unexpected! Dogs can be unpredictable. They may act shy around a camera, or they may want to play and run around. Be prepared to embrace these moments and enjoy the experience. The more relaxed you are, the more your dog will be too. Dogs bring out natural expressions and moments of joy. Let me capture the spontaneous interactions between you and your dog to create authentic memories.
By planning ahead, keeping your dog (or cat!) comfortable, and working closely with your photographer, you can create stunning, heartfelt photos that include your beloved pet.
LOOKING FOR AN EXPERIENCED PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS OR WEDDING? Contact me today!
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