So, you’ve booked a professional dog photography session – WOOHOOOOO! Get ready for some serious cuteness overload!

But before we jump into capturing those frame-worthy shots, let’s talk about how to set your pup up for success. A little prep can go a long way in making sure your furry best friend looks and feels their absolute best on camera.

Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth dog photo shoot – without breaking a sweat (okay, maybe just a little, depending on how crazy your pup is).

A Few Days Before the Shoot

1. Grooming: Fluff & Buff, But Keep It Natural

Your dog doesn’t need a full-on salon makeover, but a little sprucing up never hurts!

Short-haired dogs: A good brushing a day or two before the session will help remove loose fur and get their coat looking smooth and shiny.

Long-haired or curly-coated dogs: A trim around the eyes and paws can make a big difference! But avoid any drastic haircuts right before the session—sometimes fresh trims can look a little too fresh.

Wrinkly faces: Got a Bulldog, Pug, or another adorable squish-faced pup? Give those wrinkles a gentle wipe to keep things clean and photo-ready!

The “bath or no bath” debate: If your pup loves rolling in mud, then yes, a bath might be a good idea. But for most dogs, just brushing and wiping them down will do the trick. (Unless we are doing a water action shoot, wet dogs can take on a weird, poofy, not-so-photogenic look!)

2. Plan Your Pup’s Look

Do you want your dog to go au naturel, rock a stylish bandana, or wear a cute bowtie? Bring a few options if you’re unsure! Just avoid anything too bulky or uncomfortable – if they hate wearing it, it’ll show in the photos.

The Day of the Shoot:
Game Plan for Success

3. Exercise First, But Not Too Much

A tired dog = a good dog… but a too-tired dog = droopy ears and a flopped-out tongue. Aim for just the right amount of activity before your session.

High-energy pups (looking at you, Aussies and Labs): A short run, a game of fetch, or a quick walk can help take the edge off without completely draining them.

Low-energy dogs (Bulldogs, some Pugs, Great Danes, etc.): A casual stroll should do the trick.

Senior dogs or puppies: Keep it light! You want them to be comfortable and happy, not ready for a nap mid-shoot.

4. Bring the Essentials

Pack a small bag with these must-haves:

Treats – Smaller low-calorie pieces in larger quantities work best. Treats are absolutely essential for a successful photo shoot. I have some treats with me, but you know your pup and their food intolerances/allergies best, so I am counting on you for that part.

Favorite toy – Especially if your pup is ball-obsessed!

Leash & collar – Even if we’re shooting in a fenced area, we may need it.

Water & bowl – Photo shoots are hard work! Hydration is key.

Poop bags – Because… well, you know 😉

Towel or wipes – For drool, muddy paws, or the inevitable roll in something gross.

5. Timing is Everything

We’ll schedule your shoot for the best possible lighting (hello, golden hour!). But also think about your dog’s energy levels:

Morning dogs: Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed? Let’s aim for a morning session.

Evening dogs: If your pup is more of a night owl (or just hates waking up), a sunset shoot might be best.

During the Shoot: Keep It Fun & Stress-Free

6. Let Your Dog Be a Dog!

Some dogs sit like a supermodel and pose perfectly (My Daisy used to be like that). Others, like my Dudu… well, don’t. And that’s OK! Candid shots of your pup playing, running, or being their goofy self are often the best ones.

If they want to zoom? Let them zoom.

If they want to roll in the grass? Go for it.

If they stare blankly when you say “sit”? No worries—we’ll work with what they give us!

7. Relax & Enjoy the Process

Dogs feed off and mirror our energy, so if you’re stressed, they’ll pick up on it. Laugh, have fun, and trust the process. My goal is to make this an amazing experience for both of you—because happy dogs make the best photos!

After the Shoot: What Happens Next?

Once we wrap up, I’ll carefully edit and curate the best images from your session. In roughly about a week (I’ll let you know at the end of the photo session), we’ll either meet, or you’ll receive a gorgeous online gallery to swoon over. From there, you can choose your favorites for prints, albums, or wall art—because let’s be real, your dog absolutely deserves a spot on your wall!

Ready to Book? Let’s Make Magic Happen!

Now that you know how to prep for your dog’s photo shoot, let’s capture some memories you’ll cherish forever! Whether we’re hitting the beach, the trails, or the studio, I’ll make sure your pup looks their absolute best.

Book your session today with The Pawtraiture Boutique – the premier dog photographer in Greater Boston, MA, CT, NH, and RI. Let’s create something pawsome together!

– Your Pal Val