Dog Portraits - Your Questions Answered

Shannon Edney
Jan 7, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Dec 30, 2025

Planning a dog portrait session often brings a mix of excitement and questions — and that’s completely natural. This guide is here to help you feel informed, prepared, and confident as you consider a portrait experience designed around connection, comfort, and story.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions clients ask before their dog’s session.

What should I bring to the session?

A few familiar items can be incredibly helpful. I recommend bringing a handful of your dog’s favorite treats and, if they have one, a well-loved toy. These familiar comforts help your dog feel at ease and engaged, especially in a new outdoor setting.

I’ll bring everything else needed to guide the session gently and safely.

How can I best prepare for the session?

The most helpful preparation is simply thinking about how you’d love to remember this season of your dog’s life. Whether that looks like playful movement, quiet moments, or a mix of both, we’ll talk through your vision during your pre-session consultation.

Sessions are paced intentionally, and we often begin with movement or exploration before settling into calmer portraits — allowing your dog’s personality to unfold naturally.

Does my dog need to be trained?

Not at all. Your dog does not need formal training or perfect manners to be beautifully photographed.

Some dogs know basic cues, others don’t — and both photograph wonderfully. Many of the most meaningful portraits come from natural movement, curiosity, and in-between moments rather than posed behavior.

Can I be included in some of the photos?

Absolutely. Including you in a few portraits is a beautiful way to capture the bond you share with your dog.

If you plan to be photographed together, I recommend wearing simple, neutral clothing that complements your dog’s coat and the surrounding landscape. I’m always happy to offer guidance during planning if you’d like help choosing what to wear.

How far in advance do you schedule sessions?

Dog portrait sessions are offered as a limited series of destination-inspired experiences each year, with availability opening by season rather than by date.

Because sessions are intentionally limited, I recommend joining the waitlist to receive early access to upcoming destinations and booking opportunities. Once availability is announced, sessions are reserved with a deposit to secure your place.

Still Have Questions?

If there’s something you’re wondering about that isn’t covered here, I’d love to hear from you. My goal is for every client to feel supported, informed, and excited — long before we ever pick up a camera.