Groom Your Pet in Advance
If you regularly take your dog to a groomer, try to schedule an appointment the week before your session to make sure that your pet isn’t looking too shaggy. If you do your grooming at home, give your dog a bath and brush them before your session.
Brush Up on Basic Commands
Getting great photos will partly depend on how well your dog obeys basic commands. So take some time in the weeks before your session to practice sit, stay, down, and any other commands your pup knows. However, if your dog doesn’t know any of these commands or is just too excited during your session to listen, don’t worry! I’m willing to be patient and work with you and your dog to still get some great images.
Bring a Few Favorite Things
Prior to your session, collect your pet’s favorite toy and treats. Treats are great for helping your dog to sit still and look their best for photos or even do a trick or two. Squeaky toys are always a great hit and help encourage your pet to make some of those adorable, playful expressions. Toys and treats are also a great way to get your pup to look at the camera.
Get Ready to Assist
Your pet is most interested in you, so when you’re not in the photo with your pet(s) you can really help guide your pet’s attention to the camera. Getting a pet to stay while you back away and come right on top of the camera is a great, fun way to assist and get in on the action of pet photography.
Pack a Bag with Goodies
In addition to favorite treats, pack some water and a bowl for outdoor sessions, as well as bags for picking up waste, a brush for grooming, and your best collar and leash. I will edit the leash removal from all pictures.