You've finally takent the leap to have a dog photography session, but wow where to start! If you want to have a successful shoot and walk away with images you'll love for a lifetime, I'm not going to lie, it will take a little work prior to your shoot!

(But honestly this is the fun part - so HAVE FUN with it!)

1. What to Wear - Omg! This is the number one thing consistently that clients panic about and get overwhelmed easily. Let's make it a little more simple for you. We want to avoid everyone coming to your session in all matching outfits. Trust me on this. I highly recommend that you choose a color palette that works with the location we're shooting in, the season and complimenting each others outfits (assuming there are multiple involved in your shoot) will be much more visually appealing.

Make sure to contrast the color of your dog and avoid graphics, logos ect. Simple is best here as to keep the focus on your pet, not distracting elements of an outfit.

Make sure clothes fit your body very well. Not too tight, but not too loose. Any extra clothing WILL ADD WEIGHT and I know you won't like that. So fitted clothing is best.

Make sure you can move freely and your outfit is comfortable.

2. Toys and Treats - Please bring with you but I recommend to keep hidden until we need them. Some dogs are very obsessive about their treats and that can be problematic during a shoot. If your dog is more than motivated and is borderline obsessive, please let me know ahead of time.

3. Leashes and Collars - safety is always number one during out time together for a shoot. But if you have some flexibility in your choices, I recommend to wear something classic. A solid color leather collar ect. Remember, if you're like other clients, you'll love the idea of something fabulous for your wall so embrace and make it timeless! Leashes can be removed from images that are purchased for print, but harnesses, and the like are not removed. Please keep that in mind when giving thought to the overall look and vibe of your shoot.

4. Grooming - I would definitely do any preshoot grooming a week to two weeks ahead of your shoot. I highly discourage having your grooming session the day of the shoot.

5. Pre-Shoot Walk - Give your dog an extra walk prior to your shoot. You'll want to take the edge of your dog or tire him out just a bit, but you don't want your dog to be exhausted for their shoot.

6. Arrive Early - I recommend to arrive our shoot location early if possible. Getting your dog a walk around the area and getting him familiar and comfortable in the area will be great!

7. Relax and enjoy the day with your dog - I cannot stress this enough. This is probably my number one tip for your session even more important than what you're wearing. Your dog will pick up on your nervous energy or if you're stressed. I will guide you thru your whole session and it should be an enjoyable day for you with your dog. Please relax and embrace this time with our pup!

Conclusion: Say goodbye to photo session stress and hello to capturing the essence of your dogs unique personality!

Ready for your own dog session? Schedule a call with me!