Including your pet in family portraits can transform a typical photoshoot into a unique and delightful experience that captures the essence of your family’s personality and love. Pets are family members, too; their presence in family photos adds warmth and charm. Here are some practical tips to help make your family portrait session with your pet smooth, enjoyable, and genuinely picture-perfect.

 

Preparing Your Pet

Acclimatize Your Pet: If your pet isn’t used to new environments or lots of activity, it’s essential to help them get accustomed to the idea of a photoshoot. To minimize their anxiety, spend time acclimatizing your pet to the location and the photography equipment (like camera sounds and lighting).

Grooming: A well-groomed pet looks best on camera. Make sure your pet is bathed and groomed before the session. Brushing your pet not only makes them look great but also helps them relax through your attention and touch.

Exercise: A little exercise before the session can help your pet expend excess energy and calm down when it’s time for posing.

Choosing the Right Location

Pet-Friendly Environment: Choose a location where your pet feels comfortable, whether it’s your backyard, a favorite park, or the beach. Familiar or pet-friendly settings can help pets feel relaxed and more cooperative during the photoshoot.

Safety First: Ensure the environment is safe for your pet and free of potential hazards. If the session is in a public place, consider using a leash to prevent your pet from wandering off.

 

Including Pets in Photos

Get Them Involved: Incorporate your pet naturally into the family grouping. Have them sit next to you or, if it’s safe, let the children hold them. Pets can also be placed in the foreground to create a playful, dynamic composition.

Use Props: Props like your pet’s favorite toy or blanket can add a personal touch and help draw your pet’s attention towards the camera.

Capture their Personality: Allow some photos to be candid to capture your pet’s personality. Whether it’s a quirky head tilt or a playful stance, these candid shots often become the most cherished.

 

Working with a Photographer

Choose a Pet-Friendly Photographer: Work with a photographer with pet experience. They will understand how to capture your pets’ best moments and can handle the unpredictabilities that come with animal behavior.

Discuss Your Vision: Share your vision and any specific shots you desire with your photographer. This discussion will help your photographer prepare and look for the best moments to capture during the shoot.

 

Keeping Everyone Comfortable

Patience is Key: Working with pets requires patience. Allow plenty of time for your pet to adjust and take breaks as needed.

Keep the Atmosphere Light: Keeping the mood light and playful helps everyone, including your pet, to relax. This can lead to more natural and joyful expressions in your photos.

Snacks and Water: Have treats on hand to reward your pet and keep them motivated. Make sure to have water available, especially if it’s warm or the session is long.

 

What to Wear

Coordinating Outfits: Consider coordinating your family’s outfit with your pet. For instance, if your pet is a golden retriever with a lovely golden coat, earth tones and pastels can complement their fur.

Avoid Busy Patterns: Simple and classic clothing choices can help keep the focus on your family’s expressions and the interactions with your pet.

 

A Family Affair

Including your pet in your family portrait adds a layer of fun and affection that enriches the photo session. These tips should help you plan a seamless and joyful experience, resulting in beautiful family portraits that will be treasured for years to come. Remember, the key to a successful family and pet portrait is capturing the love and interaction between all members of your family—furry ones included.

 

Ready to capture your family’s complete story? Book a session with Cove’s Photography today, and let’s create lasting memories with everyone in your family, pets included!