So, you want to bring your dog to your engagement session. WELL … You’ve come to the right place!
As someone who brings her dogs everywhere – you are 1000% speaking my language! One of the most common remarks I’ll get from couples when talking about their pets at their session is “but my dog can’t sit still like that.” And you know what? THAT’S OKAY! Dogs aren’t statues, they all have their own habits and personalities and they’re meant to move and experience life too!
Want to know a secret?
I’ve been working with animals since I was 20 years old (that’s about… 14 years now). So, I’ve had my fair share of experience with dogs whose energy levels are all over the map. And along that journey, I’ve learned more than a few helpful tips to create the right environment for you and your pet during your sessions.
1: Tired dogs are happy dogs!
I cannot stress the importance of exercising your pet *before* your session enough. My favorite saying has always been a tired dog is a happy dog, because it truly is! Once your pet has gotten all the pent up energy out of their system they’re able to truly *hear* you when you are asking something of them. Have you ever tried to sit down and focus on work while you are excited or anxious about something? It seems impossible! So, do us all a favor (your dog included) and take them for a walk or run at least 2 hours before your session.
2: Arrive on location early and let your dog explore.
Getting to a new and/or exciting place can be overstimulating for everyone. It’s important to make sure that you give yourself enough time to walk your dog around and let all those initial zoomies, curiosities, potty breaks, and sniff sessions happen before our scheduled meeting time. This way, your dog will be able to focus on you and what your’e asking of them instead of wondering what that patch of grass might smell like. Now, I’m not saying arrive an hour early, but at least 10-15 minutes set aside for your dog to just be a dog at the beginning will be beneficial.
3: Bring your dog’s favorite toy and treats with you.
It is SO helpful when you’ve got some tricks and high value treats in your bag to keep your pup’s attention where you’d like it to be. Some dogs prefer tennis balls or squeaky toys to treats! Just remember that you know your dog best and whatever you bring for them will set them up for success.
4: Plan your location at a place where they’ll have something to do.
Location planning is a key factor in any session! I’ve had plenty of couples plan locations at their dogs’ favorite swimming hole or hiking trail so this way they are all making fun memories together throughout our session. I’ve also had plenty of couples choose to stay home for their session so their dog can be included and comfortable in their own surroundings. Don’t be afraid to plan your experience around them.
5: Let your dog be themself.
My mission as a photographer will always be to document your relationships exactly as they are. This goes for your pets too! I’m not looking for those perfectly-posed, smile-at-the-camera moments, I’m looking for your personalities in each shot. Even if your dog is a whirlwind of drool and mud, this is what we love about them! Don’t stress too much about getting the “perfect” photo and just love them for who they are.
6: Bring another person with you as a dog handler!
While I understand we planned this session in order to include your pup, if you’re anything like me…. it can be difficult to focus on anything EXCEPT them! Bringing another human as a dog handler is a fantastic way to relieve yourself of your parently duties, while giving you a chance to have photos with just your partner. This keeps your pet safe, supervised, and as an added bonus will give you some peace of mind during your session.
As a person who strives to never leave the dogs behind, I will always encourage you to bring them along. I promise that we’ll have the best time documenting this new chapter of your life!
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