How to Keep Your Pet Calm and Happy During a Shoot
If you’ve ever tried to snap a quick photo of your pet and ended up with a blurry tail or a nose right in the lens, you’re not alone! Pet photography takes patience, love, and a few clever tricks. Whether you’ve booked a professional shoot or are trying it yourself at home, here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your furry friend calm, happy, and totally camera-ready.
Exercise Before the Session
A quick walk or a short play session before the shoot can help burn off excess energy. Your pet is more likely to sit still and cooperate if they’ve had a chance to move around and get some excitement out of their system.
Bring Their Favorite Treats (and Lots of Them!)
Treats are the secret weapon of every pet photographer. I use them to reward good behavior, hold attention, and even get those adorable head tilts. Make sure to bring your pet’s favorites so they associate the camera with something positive and tasty.
Don’t Forget Their Favorite Toy
A squeaky toy, feather wand, or ball can be a great motivator and comfort tool. It not only helps grab their attention for the perfect shot but can also help them relax in a new environment.
Let Them Set the Pace
Some pets need a little time to sniff around, get familiar with the surroundings, or say hello to the photographer (me!). That’s totally fine. Giving them a few minutes to adjust makes a world of difference and sets the tone for a stress-free shoot.
Stay Calm and Patient
Pets pick up on our energy. If you're relaxed and cheerful, your pet is more likely to mirror that vibe. Try not to get frustrated if they don’t pose perfectly right away. Candid moments are often the most magical!
Use Gentle Commands They Know
Familiar commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “look” can really help direct your pet without overwhelming them. But don’t worry if your pet hasn’t mastered a full command list—this shoot is all about capturing them as they are!
Take Breaks if Needed
Especially during longer sessions, breaks are important. A few minutes of water, cuddles, or sniff-time can recharge your pet and keep them happy throughout the shoot.
Pick the Right Location
Some pets thrive outdoors with lots of space, while others prefer the calm of a studio or even their own home. Choosing a familiar or comfortable location can help your pet feel more at ease and confident in front of the camera.
At the end of the day, the goal is to make the experience fun for both you and your pet! I always focus on creating a stress-free environment where your pet can be themselves. Because when they’re relaxed, those genuine, heart-melting moments come naturally and that’s when the real magic happens. Don’t miss out on capturing these precious memories, book your session now and let’s create something unforgettable together!
How to Keep Your Pet Calm and Happy During a Shoot
If you’ve ever tried to snap a quick photo of your pet and ended up with a blurry tail or a nose right in the lens, you’re not alone! Pet photography takes patience, love, and a few clever tricks. Whether you’ve booked a professional shoot or are trying it yourself at home, here are some tried-and-true tips to keep your furry friend calm, happy, and totally camera-ready.
Exercise Before the Session
A quick walk or a short play session before the shoot can help burn off excess energy. Your pet is more likely to sit still and cooperate if they’ve had a chance to move around and get some excitement out of their system.
Bring Their Favorite Treats (and Lots of Them!)
Treats are the secret weapon of every pet photographer. I use them to reward good behavior, hold attention, and even get those adorable head tilts. Make sure to bring your pet’s favorites so they associate the camera with something positive and tasty.
Don’t Forget Their Favorite Toy
A squeaky toy, feather wand, or ball can be a great motivator and comfort tool. It not only helps grab their attention for the perfect shot but can also help them relax in a new environment.
Let Them Set the Pace
Some pets need a little time to sniff around, get familiar with the surroundings, or say hello to the photographer (me!). That’s totally fine. Giving them a few minutes to adjust makes a world of difference and sets the tone for a stress-free shoot.
Stay Calm and Patient
Pets pick up on our energy. If you're relaxed and cheerful, your pet is more likely to mirror that vibe. Try not to get frustrated if they don’t pose perfectly right away. Candid moments are often the most magical!
Use Gentle Commands They Know
Familiar commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “look” can really help direct your pet without overwhelming them. But don’t worry if your pet hasn’t mastered a full command list—this shoot is all about capturing them as they are!
Take Breaks if Needed
Especially during longer sessions, breaks are important. A few minutes of water, cuddles, or sniff-time can recharge your pet and keep them happy throughout the shoot.
Pick the Right Location
Some pets thrive outdoors with lots of space, while others prefer the calm of a studio or even their own home. Choosing a familiar or comfortable location can help your pet feel more at ease and confident in front of the camera.