I love when clients bring their pups to their family session, senior session or mini session. It doesn't matter if they are the stuff Red Bull is made of or calm as a cucumber. I'm here for it. We talk about preparing kids for the shoot so it’s successful but what about your pup? They are your fur baby! Just like kids they have their own personality and agenda. It’s our jobs as the adults in charge to navigate and prepare for success! Here are a few tips to help you and your photographer have a successful session when you bring your pup! 

Family and their pets pose together outdoors among evergreen trees on a sunny day.
Person cuddling adorable brown dog outdoors in green grass field with white flowers on sunny summer day.
  1. Give your photographer a heads up so she can ask questions and be prepared.
  2. Bring treats!! 
  3. If they are high energy then give them a calming snack beforehand. 
  4. Avoid the neon colored leash if possible.
  5. If they are easily distracted by people choose a location less busy. Your photographer can advise you. 
  6. Play with them prior to the session to get out any energy. This may mean arriving to your session early and playing before meeting your phtoographer. 
  7. Relax. Dogs pick up on your stress. If you’re stressed that they won’t "behave" then they most likely won't "behave."
  8. Have a plan for them to be at only part of the session. This has been successful for some families. That may mean parking far away so they can stay in the car during 10 min of the shoot. This allows to get family photos first without your pup so you're guaranteed the classic family shot and genuine interaction with just the kids - no stress.
  9. Talk with the kids prior about how the session will be a little different with your furriest family member(s) and it's really important to listen.
  10. Have fun and just know you will have portraits that you will treasure even more years to come.


So this season don't leave your pups out of the pic because you're worried they will ruin the shot! They won't.

Group standing in pasture with a black horse and small dog at wooden fence during outdoor photo session.

Amanda McNeal is based out of Columbia, TN and serves the surrounding area including Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro and Mt. Pleasant. She specializes in senior portraits, high end maternity and professional headshots. Her family mini sessions are offered seasonly.