5 tips for bringing your dog to a photo session | Missouri wedding + family photographer

I really hope you can find these 5 tips for bringing your dog to a photo session helpful, because I love dogs. Our dogs, Banner and Watson, are part of the family. And I have many clients who feel the same way about their own sweet pups. Oftentimes, they ask me about bringing their dogs to the session or wedding, and that answer is always, OF COURSE!!! Read on for some advice on how to make the process as smooth as possible. 

Have so many treats

Chances are we are going to be in a new environment, and I am a new person. Your dog may be a bit distracted. And that’s okay! I used to offer to bring treats, but after we realized our pup, Banner, had quite a few allergies and new treats could upset his stomach, I now suggest you bring treats or some dry kibble that your dog is used to for me to grab their attention. 🙂 We don’t need any upset stomachs on the way home! 

Consider asking a friend or family member to come along

This is a big one! Consider having someone come along who can hold the dog/their leash when they need a break and when I’m going to grab a few photos of just the couple or family without that sweet pup. I have held a leash while photographing a couple before, and I can do it, but things often move a bit faster when we have help. 

This is especially important for wedding days. Have someone who can meet us at the portrait location with the pup and then take them back home when we are done so they are safe. We do NOT want any dogs in hot cars. 

Neutral leashes 

Having neutral leashes is a lot like picking out a picture outfit for your pup. You are taking such care to coordinate your outfits, and I’d hate for a brightly colored leash to take away from the end result of your images. 

Some leashes I suggest: 

• This gray and gold one on Etsy
• A rope leash – look for white, ivory, tan, or gray
• A timeless leather leash 

To squeaky toy or not to squeaky toy?

Does your dog love or play with squeaky toys at home? If yes, these can come in handy when the dog is quickly losing interest in my “good pup!!” voice and treat waving. We only bust these out when the dog is almost done so as to not tease the pup with a toy they can’t have yet. 

Remember clean up 

Poop bags. I mean don’t forget poop bags. Especially if we are at a park or something, we want to make sure to clean up after ourselves! 

I hope this was helpful for you! I really loved sharing these tips for bringing your dog to a photo session, and I hope you consider bringing your pup. I’d love to meet them!! If you’d like for me to capture your wedding or family memories, I’d love for you to contact me HERE! 

Want to get in touch?

I am so excited you found me! And I hope these 5 tips for bringing your dog to a photo session are helpful when planning! Just so you to know your email is going to make my day, and I’ll probably do a little happy dance when it hits my inbox. I love email because it helps me keep all our important conversations in one place versus spreading the conversation out over email, text, Instagram DMs, Facebook Messenger, Snapchat, etc. You can expect to hear from me within 24 hours. You can contact me here, or just shoot me an email at kelsey@kelseyalumbaugh.com