Midlothian Family Photographer: How to Include Your Dog in Your Family Session

I know what you’re thinking. You consider your dog as part of your family (of course!), but you’re wondering how it will go with including them in your family session. As a Midlothian family photographer, I help prepare families on how to include their dog in their family session, so that the session stays fun and productive, getting the final images they’re envisioning. Here are some of my best tips to do just that.

3 Tips for Preparing Your Dog from a Midlothian Family Photographer

Take your dog on a walk before the session.

If you have a high-energy dog (like me!), taking them for a walk before your family session can be so helpful. Some dogs do just fine with a 20 minute walk while others may need a little longer. You know your dog best!

When meeting at an outdoor location, like a park, plan to arrive earlier than the session start time and allow your dog the time to explore and take in all the new scents. If we’re meeting at your home, a walk around the neighborhood or playing fetch in the backyard can work just fine.

Invite another family member or friend to give your dog breaks.

Sometimes the length of family photography sessions can be longer than your dog’s attention span. When meeting for an outdoor family session, many families find it helpful to bring along another family member or friend to walk the dog for short periods of time as we continue getting photos of your family. This can be nice, too, as it can give us the opportunity to capture some photos of your family playing together, or photos of just the kids.

Bring your dog’s favorite treats.

If your dog is motivated by rewards, bringing their favorite treats can be key, especially for those images where everyone is smiling at the camera. Either I can hold these, or your additional family member or friend can hold these to help keep your dog’s attention.

What Else to Keep in Mind for Your Session with Your Midlothian Family Photographer

Help your dog look their best.

Just as important as having your family look their best for your family session is having your dog look their best. A recent bath, hair trim, and nail trim can go a long way in helping to create those final images you’ll love for years to come.

Pick a coordinating collar, leash, and/or bandana.

Your family’s outfits will be styled and coordinated for your family session, and it’s important for your dog to coordinate, too. A coordinating collar and leash helps to keep the focus on your family’s connection, rather than the color of your dog’s accessories. If your dog likes bandanas, this can also be a nice touch for dressing up your family photos.

Choosing the Right Midlothian Family Photographer for Your Dog

Pick a dog-friendly photographer.

A dog-friendly photographer is essential when wanting to include your dog in family photos. Is the photographer comfortable around dogs? Or even better, are they a dog person? I absolutely love not only getting to work with families’ dogs, but giving their dogs all the belly rubs, too!

Review how the photographer includes the dog in photos.

Be sure to review the photographer’s portfolio to see how they include dogs in photos, and see if it’s what you’re envisioning for your own photos, too. Or, if you have something in mind that you don’t see, ask the photographer if they’d be able to help your vision come to life.

Picking the Best Midlothian Family Photographer for Your Dog

I hope you found these tips helpful as you prepare to include your dog in your family photos. If you’re still looking for a Midlothian family photographer or Richmond family photographer, I’d love to share more about what it’s like working together. Feel free to contact me today to learn more!