Family Portraits with Your Furry Friend... Is this a good idea?  

Dunwoody Family Photographer
 

A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day!

If you are like me, my dogs are my family too! I count on them for love and affection and they are always there when I need them.  As a matter of fact, I would do ANYTHING for my pets so of course I want my fur babies there.    However, there are a few tips and tricks and things to be aware of to ensure everyone's happiness and great photos at the end.  With a little advance planning, we can make sure everyone is enjoying our time together, including the dog!

Click HERE to book your family photo session with your PET! 

Following these simple "to do's" will make your session with your pet a wonderful experience and as anyone with a pet knows... they are a part of the family and a photo shoot without them is not complete!!!  

A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day!

1). Make sure you pick the right type and length for a family portrait session.

• Check with your photographer and make sure they know the dog is coming to the session.  This is critical because we can pick locations that are most appropriate, bring items that are good attention getters for animals etc. 
• Some sessions are not appropriate for pets... for example some locations may not allow dogs, the amount of time allotted for a session is not condusive to animals taking part (a 20 minute mini session, for example) or the temperature is tough on the animals.

A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day!

2). A GREAT idea is to exercise the dog BEFORE the photo shoot.  A dog that is so very happy and excited to be out of the house at the park is going to find it difficult to slow down, sit still and pay attention.  So exercising them just before the session is a brilliant idea.   

3). Lots and lots of their favorite treats.  A bowl and bottled water is key too.  Let's keep them happy and hydrated.   Also... waste bags because when it is time, it is time!! 

A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day! 4). Bath Time!!  Just like our children, make sure the dog has had a bath and is nicely groomed or at the very least brushed.  :) 

5). We will make a plan for the session but just like with little kids, we can plan everything out ahead of time but in the end, we will just have fun and photograph whatever happens.  The candid ones are often my favorite photos anyway!  

A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day! 6). The favorite squeaky toy... but we will only use it when we want that extra special "tilt" of the head or that sweet expressions that the key catch phrases always elicits... like "walk" or "hungry".  We will use them sparingly and only when we are in position for a great capture! 

7). Make sure you dress appropriately for the session too... paying special attention to your shoes!  If the family pet is in the photos, they will most likely be at your feet so make sure your shoes are nice and neat. Your clothing should be simple and classic too.
A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day!
A boy and his dogA boy and his dog on a spring day! I hope you enjoyed these tips!  Give me a call to capture you and your family pet!  We'll make great memories.  

Kristin Boyer

Atlanta Family & Children's Photographer

Serving Atlanta, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Chamblee and the surrounding areas.

Award Winning Family & Children's Portrait Photographer

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