5 Things To Prepare Before Your Dog’s Photo Shoot
What do you need for your dog's photo shoot?
Have you ever had that dream where you show up to school naked?
Lets avoid that feeling of being completely unprepared by making sure you’ve got everything you need before you show up for your session… fully clothed please.
This blog is your guide to what you need for your dog prior to your dog photography session.
1. A Simple 6 Foot Leash
It may be dog photography’s worst kept secret, but in case you didn’t know, 99% of the dogs on my website were wearing a leash at their photoshoot!
You simply cannot be a professional dog photographer without becoming an expert at leash removal in Photoshop.
Not only does the leash keep your dog safe, the leash is also an invaluable tool in helping your dog understand where we’d like them to sit or stand since we can’t simply tell them to stand right in this sun spot and look to your left.
There are a few things to consider about your leash to make removal in post production as simple as possible.
Bring a solid color 6 foot leash - Black, Neutral Colored Biothane, or Leather Leashes work best. Show leads are also a GREAT option if your dog is used to wearing one.
Help watch out for leashes wrapped around legs & paws.
2. A Photogenic Collar
While leashes are removed from your final selections, your dog’s collar will most likely remain in their portrait, so it’s worth a few minutes to think about which collar will best suit your dog’s photos.
For a timeless look, a simple leather (or faux leather) collar in a neutral or fur matching color will keep your dog’s face as the star of the image.
Since it’s a special occasion, you could also consider a collar with a little extra glam factor. I love the designs from Paco Collars (handmade in California & available locally at Highland Pet Supply in Atlanta).
Or, if leather or bedazzled doesn’t suit your dog, try something solid color or with a fun pattern can be a great choice. The Foggy Dog makes gorgeous collars in beautiful patterns and even luxe velvet.
This might be a good time to purchase a new collar if you find that your dog’s current collar looks worn or tattered.
PS. If you really love a naked look - consider using a show lead (a very thin rolled leather leash) that is narrow enough to be fully removed in post processing.
3. Leave the Mr. T Tags Off
Since our dogs don’t have pockets, they need to wear their ID tag, and rabies tag, and microchip registration tag, and city license tag.
And suddenly that beautiful collar you choose is dominated by neon plastic dangling tags designed to draw attention. Those tags are great for if your dog were to get lost, but maybe aren’t so great for a portrait hanging on your wall.
Just for your session, I recommend removing all tags unless they are particularly beautiful or sentimental.
(If you’re looking for a beautiful & personality filled tag, check out Fetching Tags, a local Atlanta based company that hand makes the best tag I have ever purchased for any dog.)
4. Harnesses Are Great for Walking - Not Photographs
Wow! Who knew dogs had so many accessories to consider!
Before we wrap up talking about your dog’s wardrobe, I do want to mention harnesses.
I completely get the appeal of walking with a harness. My own dogs all wear harnesses on our walks. Your dog’s harness distributes the pressure from the leash, offers better control, and protects their throat.
They also block a big part of the chest, typically come in bright bold colors, and don’t exactly elevate your dog’s picture to the level of photographic art we’re going for here.
I 100% support wearing a harness for walking and even traveling between photo locations when necessary, but be prepared to switch to the collar & leash only for your actual portraits. Harnesses cannot be removed in post production.
5. Now to the Good Stuff - Treats & Rewards for your Dog’s Photo Session
When it comes to your dog’s photo shoot, it’s time to bring out the good stuff. We’re going to be asking for a lot of their time & attention and we want your dog to be excited to work for the camera.
You know your dog best, so bring the high value rewards. This is time for special occasion treats.
Some ideas include:
Boiled Chicken Breast
Leftover Steak
Cheese
Peanut Butter
Hot Dogs
Cream Cheese
Be sure to bring options so we can keep things exciting. You never know when our supermodel will need some variety.
There you have it, 5 thing your dog needs to be prepared for their photoshoot! And since your dog doesn’t have opposable thumbs, I’ve created a packing checklist for you.
Click here to download the FREE Packing List for Your Dog’s Photo Shoot!