Harley chilling at golden hour. @mushiimoo
Prepare to embark on a whimsical adventure as we dive into the world of dog photography like never before! Capturing your furry friend's charisma and charm requires a pinch of creativity, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of wagging tails. As your go-to dog photography guru, I'm thrilled to share these ten tips that will ensure a photo shoot filled with laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories.
Contents
Fabulous Fur-do's:
Grooming plays a significant role in your dog's appearance and confidence during the photo shoot. A well-groomed dog not only looks their best but also feels more self-assured. Before the session, treat your pup to a soothing bath, a thorough brushing to achieve a silky coat, and a gentle nail trim. This extra pampering not only enhances your dog's visual appeal but also contributes to their overall comfort and contentment during the shoot.
Remember to consider your dog's breed and individual needs when grooming. Long-haired breeds may benefit from a trim around the eyes to get focused sharp photos, while short-haired dogs can benefit from a good brushing to bring out their natural shine. A clean and well-groomed coat contributes to stunning photos that truly showcase your dog's unique beauty.
Long-haired breeds may benefit from a trim around the eyes to get focused sharp photos.
Snacks and Toys – These are Key!
We all know the direct path to a dog's heart is through their stomach, and the thrill of toys comes in at a close second. So, when it's time to strike a pose, you better believe that treats and toys are the dynamic duo that will have your pup showing off their A-game! Prepare to witness excitement as you stock up on your fur baby's favorite treats and unleash their treasured toys. These delightful incentives are more than just rewards – they're the key to unlocking a world of adorably focused expressions and capturing moments as vibrant as a dog's wagging tail.
Treat time isn't just about appeasing appetites; it's a magical moment where they truly light up. The irresistible charm of dog-friendly peanut butter – the maestro of expressions. Whether dolloped onto a toy or offered on a spoon, this creamy delight has an uncanny ability to turn a simple photo session into a canine masterpiece. Watch in awe as tongues dance, noses twitch, and eyes lock onto their newfound prize. It's the peanut buttery persuasion that captures candid moments of sheer delight, creating snapshots that tug at heartstrings and freeze their goofy, peanut-butter-covered grins in time.
A goofy shot of Harley enjoying her peanut butter. @rivercwilsonphotography
And then, there's the power of toys – from bouncy balls to squeaky toys, your dog will have an extra dose of playfulness in the session. Toss a toy into the mix, and suddenly, your lens is capturing mid-air leaps, gleeful chomps, and that delightful sparkle in their eyes. So, as you embark on your photo adventure, remember this delightful duo: treats that tickle taste buds and toys that twirl tails. They're your golden ticket to a gallery of endearing expressions, that celebrates the whimsical wonders of your four-legged companion.
remember this delightful duo: treats that tickle taste buds and toys that twirl tails. They're your golden ticket to a gallery of endearing expressions that celebrates the whimsical wonders of your four-legged companion.
Plan Ahead for Optimal Timing and Location:
Choosing the right time and location sets the stage for a successful dog photo shoot. The golden hours of early morning or late afternoon offer soft, flattering light that enhances your dog's features and creates a warm ambiance. Consider your dog's routine and energy levels when selecting the time. Additionally, opt for a location that resonates with your pup's personality – whether it's a vibrant park, a serene beach, or the cozy familiarity of your own home. By selecting a location where your dog feels happy and can express themselves naturally, you're setting the foundation for authentic and captivating photos.
Meeko posing in daffodils at one of her favourite spots in golden hour. The bare spring trees make a beautiful fuzzy backdrop. @rivercwilsonphotography
To further enhance the experience, take into account the weather and any potential distractions at the chosen location. A calm and serene environment will allow your dog to be at ease, resulting in more genuine and heartwarming moments captured on camera. When picking a spot for your photo shoot, think beyond the ordinary. Your local park is grand, but how about a dog-friendly café, a beach bonanza, a magical forest or a pup picnic in your backyard? Where ever you chose, make sure to take your dog to that location multiple times before the shoot. The more familiar they are, the happier they be!
By selecting a location where your dog feels happy and can express themselves naturally, you're setting the foundation for authentic and captivating photos.
Paw-sitive Reinforcement for Awesome Poses
Teaching your dog a few simple commands like "sit," "stay," "down," "jump," or "sleepyhead" can make all the difference. Reward their efforts with treats and watch them strike a pose that's ready for the doggy runway!
These easy commands can be your secret weapon for turning your dog's photo shoot into an Instagram model. Imagine your dog striking a pose like they're ready for a fancy doggy magazine – that's the kind of magic these simple tricks can bring!
Oreo mastering sleepyhead. @mushiimoo
The best part? Treats! When your pup gets it right, you give them a treat. It's like a high-five for dogs. They're happy, you're happy, and you get an awesome picture as a bonus.
So, grab a few treats, use these simple tricks, and watch your dog transform into a photo-ready pro. It's like turning a regular day into a doggy superstar photo shoot – and who wouldn't want that?
These easy commands can be your secret weapon for turning your dog's photo shoot into an Instagram model.
Toy-tally Awesome Play Breaks
Let's hit pause for a playful doggy intermission, where you & your furry companion dive into spirited rounds of fetch, tugging bouts, or even a whimsical game of "chase the squirrel." In this enchanting moment, we'll join forces, capturing not just images but the very essence of your pup's exuberance. When the tennis ball soars or the toy steals the show in a lively game, it's not just fun for your pup – it's a fountain of joy that washes over them, filling the air with the infectious thrill of a dog immersed in pure, unfiltered delight.
Meeko running after her ball. @rivercwilsonphotography
These play breaks are like windows into your dog's soul – moments where you capture the essence of their playfulness and the simple pleasures that light up their world. They bring an extra layer of authenticity to your photos, showing off your pup's spirited nature in action. So, embrace the play breaks. They're not just moments of fun; they're snapshots of happiness that will add a touch of magic to your dog's photo story.
Hooman Helpers = Doggy Directors
Your roll during the shoot will be to make the silliest noises, wiggling squeak toys and doing a funky chicken dance to get your dogs animated attention. But don't fret, when you also star in the photos along side your furry companion, I'll have learnt all the silly noises and moves that work with your dog. I also carry a range of whistles and kazoos. The stranger & funnier the noise, the more interested your dog will be! It's a quirky show that guarantees giggles!
Paws for Props – Get Creative
Sprinkle some playful props into your photo shoot for an extra dose of fun. A goofy hat, a mini-sized bow-tie, a snazzy bandana or a sign that speaks about their personality – let your imagination run wild and let the giggles flow!
I have a wardrobe full of dogie props ready to be used. You'll get a full viewing during the consultation to select which props you'd like to use! Once you know what you're dog will be wearing, coordinate your outfit to match or compliment your dog!
One of my cute hats that Oreo doesn't mind modeling in. @mushiimoo
Embrace the Unpawdictable
Sometimes, the best moments are the ones that catch you off-guard. Be ready for those unexpected, quirky expressions, spontaneous zoomies, and the heart-melting doggy kisses that happen when you least expect them!
Meeka kept running in and out of the water excitedly. What an awesome moment to capture. @meekathesuperdog
With these paw-some tips in your doggy photography toolkit, you're all set to embark on a laughter-filled photo shoot that will capture your pup's unique personality and charm. Remember, the key is to have fun, embrace the goofiness, and let your dog's true colors shine through the camera lens. So, grab those treats and goofy hats, and get ready for a fun day out that will leave you with photos and memories that'll warm your heart for years to come!