Dog photo shoot: Prepare for success

By Cecilia Casillas

Your dog is just as much a part of the family as your children or partner.

Throughout your dog’s life, you’ll create so many warm and wonderful memories that can last forever in your mind. But wouldn’t it be even better to have a memory you can hold on to that was created by a professional photographer?

To make the most of a professional dog photo shoot, it’s important to get ready.

So use these tips to prepare.

1. Plan the dog photo shoot

Location. The first thing to consider is the location. Choose a place where your dog will be comfortable. If your dog is shy or nervous, your home may be the best option. Only consider a studio setting if you are confident your dog will do well in a new environment. If you choose an outdoor location, don’t forget to bring some water along so your dog won’t become overheated.

Be honest. Let your photographer know about your dog’s temperament, especially if he’s aggressive toward new people. That way your photographer will be able to prepare accordingly.

2. Prepare for the dog photo shoot.

Practice commands. If you don’t regularly use obedience commands, be sure to practice them a few days before the dog photo shoot to make sure your pup will do what you ask, when you ask. Make sure your dog responds to sit, stay and wait. If you want to incorporate any special tricks during the photo shoot, be sure to practice those, too.

Grooming. To make sure your dog looks his best, either give him a bath or take him to the groomer. Be sure to do that two days before the photo shoot. That will give the dog’s hair some time to settle in place so he’ll look his best.

Trim your dog’s nails. If you choose a professional studio setting, trim your dog’s nails so he won’t leave any scratches on the floor or furniture. If you can’t — or don’t trim them yourself — make this part of your dog’s grooming before the photo shoot.

3. Day of the dog photo shoot.

Walk your dog. About an hour before the dog photo shoot, it’s a good idea to take a walk to burn off some pent-up energy. This will help make your dog more relaxed and photogenic.

Treats. If your dog is food motivated, consider bringing some along. But be cautious about using them. Some dogs become fixated on the treats and that can make the photos look unnatural and unfocused. It also can make your dog drool. Instead, consider bringing a toy your pup likes to play with.

Don’t feed your dog. If your dog is hungry, she’s more likely to be alert and willing to focus. If you feed your dog first, you may end up with a sluggish dog who just wants to curl up for a nap. And, if you don’t feed your dog first, a food-motivated dog is more likely to respond to treats.

Conclusion: Overall when it comes to preparing for a dog photo shoot, it’s important to stay calm, focused and in control of your dog. If you do this, then you will increase your chances for a successful shoot that will produce the photos you desire.

Born in Mexico, a country of vivid beauty and colorful people, Cecilia Casillas brings the passion of her country of birth into her artistic work with pets. Cecilia has painted since childhood, and studied with Mexican painter Paul Achar and Chilean painter Carlos Arias. In 2014, she came to Melbourne, Australia, to continue refining her artistic skills, and finishing her bachelor’s degree.
Founding Colour Pet Studio in 2014 has allowed her to share her pet painting skills with people from all over the world. She now brings pet owners joy through her painting.

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