Is a Dog Photoshoot Right for Your Dog?

A professional outdoor dog photoshoot is the perfect way to capture your dog’s personality and essence to treasure forever. Our dogs have a special place in our hearts, and their portraits also deserve a special place in our homes. Maybe you’ve wanted a dog photoshoot for a while or you’re just starting to research, and you might have some questions. Maybe you’re wondering if your dog is even right for a dog photoshoot. You love your furry best friend but wonder if they could even handle a professional photoshoot. 

As a LA area dog photographer, I’ve worked with many amazing dogs and their families, and I could tell you if your dog is “right” for a dog photoshoot or not. I’m happy to answer the most common questions I hear from dog parents as they consider investing in a professional photography session right here. 

Is My Dog Right for a Dog Photoshoot?

1. What if my dog is reactive or nervous?

As a mom of a reactive and nervous dog myself, I completely understand this concern. One of my dogs is a 90lb rescued German Shepherd with severe reactivity toward people and other dogs. This circumstance has pushed me to learn a lot about dogs and how to communicate with them. This has led me to partner with a certified dog behaviorist and truly learn more about force-free, science-based dog training methods! Before your dog photo session, we would schedule a time for me to meet your dog and to ensure that they are comfortable with me on the day of the photo session.

2. What if my dog needs time to warm up to people?

This is perfectly normal, and I’m very used to it! Even people need a minute to warm up, too. I can make sure to meet your dog before the day of the photo session and give them a chance to get to know me before their big day in front of my camera. For the day of your photoshoot, I would plan on additional time for us to “warm up” before officially starting to take photos of your dog. 

3. What if my dog isn’t trained very well?
That’s no problem at all. I’ve worked with dogs who have all different levels of training. I have lots of yummy treats and different noise makers (like a duck call) to get their attention when I want to capture a specific portrait of them. During the photo session, I don’t necessarily need your dog to behave a certain way or do specific things. We go with the flow and have fun together while I take as many photos of you and your dog as possible to ensure I get the right ones for you.

4. What if my dog is very young or very old?

Please don’t let your dog’s age worry you! I’ve worked with puppies and senior dogs, enjoying their golden years. Your dog isn’t too young or too old. Imagine having a professional album of your dog’s puppy pictures to enjoy for the rest of your life! If your dog is old and requires any special circumstances, I’m happy to work with you to ensure they’re comfortable throughout the photo session. 

5. What happens if my dog isn’t enjoying the session? 

While I’ve never had this happen during a session. However, if your dog truly isn’t feeling the photo session that day, we can reschedule and try again. Dogs can have off days, too. If there’s something about the photoshoot itself, such as the wrong location, we can try something else. But again, canceling a session hasn’t happened because of the planning that we will do ahead of time to craft the perfect experience for you and your dog.

6. What if we had a bad photography experience before?

Maybe you hired a photographer before and didn’t love the results. Or, maybe you included your dog in a family photography session and didn’t have the best experience. Working with a professional dog photographer with a proven process can make a huge difference. I’ve invested hours and hours into my dog photography education. As a dog mom myself, I know how important it is to have these images of your dog. With my dog photography sessions, anyone living in the household can be included so that you can get that dream family portrait with your dog. 

7. What if my dog isn’t photogenic?

Maybe you have a black lab that doesn’t photograph well using your phone, or your pup always shies away from the camera. Or maybe your pup is going through an illness that’s affecting their beautiful coat. I can assure you that I can capture portraits of your dog to last a lifetime. Just share any concerns with me, and I’ll be happy to figure out a solution that fits your needs!

8. What if we’re a very busy family? 

Maybe you really want a dog photoshoot but aren’t sure how to fit one into your family’s busy schedule. This is where my signature dog photography process comes in. You’ll never wonder what the next step is or what needs to be done. My stress-free process guides you through each step of the way. This full-service process is designed with busy LA area families in mind. You’ll get to experience a fun dog photo session and have cherished artwork to keep forever without adding to your full plate. I’m here to take care of all the details for you from start to finish!

Plan Your LA Area Dog Photoshoot 

I hope this answers the question of whether your dog is right for a dog photoshoot and convinces you that they are! If you have any other questions or concerns, I’d be more than happy to discuss them with you. Simply head here to schedule a time for a no-pressure conversation. 

We’re now booking LA area dog photoshoots several months in advance, and I would love to add you to our calendar. If you’re ready to create dog portrait artwork you’ll love forever, let’s schedule a call today!