How To Prepare For Your Pets First Photo Session
How exciting!
You have booked your very first photo session for you and your pet.
You may be feeling apprehensive about not knowing what to expect? You can now relax because it is my job to help you feel more at ease; so let’s start by explaining what makes my approach to pet photography unique.
I believe that we should let your pet set the pace. I will never ask your pet to do anything that is outside of their nature just to get the shot. Your photo session is meant to be a fun, low-anxiety experience.
I consider myself a visual storyteller. I make it the priority to capture images that highlight your relationship with your pet. Images that show the special relationship you share with your fur family.
Now, take a deep breath and relax; this will be fun!
Time To Get Chill
We have chosen the perfect location for your photo session and from here on we let your pet set the pace. The objective is to capture your pet’s personality. This experience is about allowing your pet to feel comfortable enough to enjoy themselves, so I can get snapping away and capture your pet’s true spirit.
Think of your photo shoot as a laid-back training session, and let’s give your pet the space they need to show me their character.
Helping Your Pet Settle In
A photoshoot can cause anxiety for some pets.
Suddenly they are the center of attention with a strange person pointing strange things at them. We can do a few things between the two of us to make your pet more comfortable.
Before the shoot, take your dog for a walk and let them check out the environment. Toss a ball for them or have tug of war with a favorite toy.
Likewise, a big play session with your cat will help them blow off a little steam before we ask them for cooperation.
What Does Your Pet Love?
To get the best shots, bring the things that your pet loves.
A favorite toy or treat that will light up those eyes and get us an adorable head tilt.
Should I Have My Pet Groomed?
If you are going to get your pet groomed for their session, it is a good idea to do it a day or two prior to the shoot so there isn’t too much excitement for them in one day.
If your pooch or kitty is more of a rough-and-tumble skaliwag, then let them come,
Au Naturale.
This aspect of your photo session is a personal choice, and there isn’t a right or wrong way to do it.
For Their Safety and Ours
Some dogs need to remain on a leash for their shoot. That is no problem. The magic of editing can remove the leash after the fact.
I suggest you not have your pet harnessed for their photo session. But, do have your harness and collar on hand, and we can remove them as needed.
What About You?
The best images tell a story. As I mentioned earlier, this photo session tells the story of your relationship with your pet. So, be prepared to be in at least some of the images.
Don’t worry; I will help you out. I understand that only some people like to have their photos taken. As a portrait photographer, I am in a great position to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Step one of feeling comfortable starts with what to wear. So, wear something comfortable that makes you feel good.
Avoid busy patterns and for sure dress in appropriate clothes for our location.
Even if you never share photos of yourself with another human, you will be happy you have them.
What Should I Bring
Don’t worry. This list is short.
- Water for you and your pet
- Pets’ favorite toys and treats
- A fully charged phone: if it is a location shoot and we have trouble spotting each other, we may need it.
The Shoot is Over, What Now?
Once we wrap up on location, I will:
- Choose and proof the best of the images.
- Create a video from all the best photos.
The edit for this can take about two weeks. I will send you a sneak peek before that (I know it can be hard to wait).
When I am done, we can make an appointment to view the photos.
I will be there to help you with suggested print sizes and print options for your edited images.
These small details will make having your pictures turned into wall art easy-peasy.
The hardest part will be for you to choose your favorite photos.
Photos that I know you will treasure forever.
RAMONA HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY 