Everything You Need to Know: Dog Portrait Sessions
Congratulations on scheduling a portrait session for your pet! My goal is for the experience to be fun for all - especially for your dog.
A few tips to help you prepare for the session:
GROOMING
Your dog will be the center of attention, so it's important they look their best. You can give them a bath ahead of time, but that isn't necessary. More important is a thorough brushing. Remember to clean tear stains from under your pet's eyes.
ACCESSORIES
If you pet regularly wears accessories such as bows, bandanas, hats, etc., a photo shoot is the perfect opportunity to capture their signature look, at least in a few of the shots!
COLLARS, HARNESSES & LEASHES
It's important to keep your pet safe throughout the session, so unless the photo shoot is taking place on private property, your dog will need to wear its collar and leash. Please be sure the collar your dog is wearing is one you want them to be photographed in. Most of the time the leash can be edited out in post-production, but there may be some photos where that isn't possible.
If your dog needs to wear a harness for the session, be sure it's a harness you like and that it is positioned properly on your dog as it will be in all the photos (harnesses will not be photoshopped out in post-production).
TOYS
If your dog has a favorite squeaky toy, ball or stuffed animal that will help to get their attention, feel free to bring it with you to the session. I will have some things in my bag of tricks to get their attention as well.
EXERCISE
It is recommended you take your pet for a walk or have some playtime prior to the session to ensure they aren't over-energetic during the session. We will definitely capture your pet's playful side during the session, but will also want to capture some still portraits.
TREATS
If your pet is treat-motivated, you might want to feed them less food the day of the session. For pets who get full easily, cutting their meal in half or spreading it out throughout the day may help to keep them motivated by treats during their session. If your pet has a favorite treat, be sure to let the photographer know or bring some to the session so your dog will work extra hard for a really great photo!
COMMANDS
It is not required that your pet know any formal commands or tricks for the session. Though helpful if they do, most of the dogs I photograph are captured merely doing what they do best - being dogs!
PREPARE YOURSELF
Animals are very sensitive and can sense our energy. If you are happy, so are they. If you are anxious, so are they. So it's important for you to come to the session feeling calm and confident. Remember - this is going to be a FUN EXPERIENCE for you and your pet!
NEED-TO-KNOWS
Prior to the session, it's important for you to share any anxieties or special needs your pet has that will need to be taken into consideration. I want to create a safe and comfortable environment for your pet that encourages them to show their true personality.
I can hardly wait to create gorgeous portraits of your pet that you will cherish forever!
Award-winning portrait photographer Shannon Edney's photos have been featured on multiple magazine covers with photos published in print and digital advertisements around the world. Based out of Missoula, Montana, and moving to the Nampa, Idaho area in May 2022, Shannon specializes in pet portrait photography showcasing dogs, horses, and their people. Shannon is known for her ability to catch the perfect expression and capture her subjects in unique lighting, resulting in portraits rich in artistry that will be treasured for years to come - whether it be on a fine art canvas or in a custom artisan album.