Furry Family Members

I don’t know about you but the pets in my life are family and they are with me whenever possible. Athena is our 6 year old Newfoundland. She loves to go to the dog park, on walks and car rides. Turns out she is also my photo dog and my muse. 

The bond we have with our pets will last forever. Documenting our relationships are priceless, and you will always adore having these moments captured. When we lost Sir Galahad in October of 2019, pictures of him helped me grief and keep his memory alive. He was my soul dog and I miss him terribly.

Galahad – my soul dog

No matter what type of pet you have, booking a portrait session with me your animal friends are always welcomed to join the session. Bringing your pet along for the fun. Pets show such joy and have a playfulness about them that’s hard to ignore. They also have the awesome superpower of relaxing and calming their humans. And if you have this wild little 5 months old puppy at home, don’t worry! It’s a great reminder that lifestyle portraiture is about capturing joy, not perfection.

Here are a few pointers on what to consider for your session with animal friends:

• Let me know that you are bringing a pet to the session. That way I can set some extra time aside to capture the images with your best buddy.
• We will need to pick a pet friendly location for our session. Not just a place where pets are allowed but more so a place they can enjoy and are safe at.
• Consider adding some fun little accessories to your pet’s look !  Sweaters, bandanas, bows, ties, floral wreath or crowns are just a few options. Matching accessories are especially fun. Have them wear a blue tie to match dad or some pink bows like their little human sister.
• Got an announcement to make? How about a creative sign ? They can hold it in their mouth or propped up against their paws.
• Take a walk before the session as pets get easily excited when they are getting out of the house or meeting new people. If you take them for a walk beforehand, it relieves some energy and will make them slightly more calm for the photos.
• Bring treats and/or favorite toys! Unfamiliar areas, new people and smells easily distract our best buddies. Treats and toys often help catch their attention and focus them on where the camera is.
• Consider bringing a friend along to help. Sometimes our four legged friends need a break. Having an extra set of hands will ensure your pet is taking care of when you are in the picture and they are not. 
  

Was this helpful ? Or are there any tips that have been helpful to you? Please feel free to share down in the comments. I hope to see you and your beloved pets soon.