7 Tips for Including Your Dog in Engagement Photos
Are you thinking about including your dog in engagement photos? Well, hold onto your leashes, because there are advantages to having your furry friend participate in this special occasion. This isn't just about getting adorable photos. It’s also about celebrating the love and bond you share as a family.
With that said, adding a pet to the mix can be a bit tricky if not handled with care. Fear not, though! As an Idaho wedding photographer, I have plenty of experience with this. I've created this guide to help you rock your engagement session and include your dog while doing it!
Tips for Including Your Dog in Engagement Photos
Choose a Familiar Location
Your pup will be at their best if they are familiar with the place. Choose a location that means something to you—a place you go often with your dog is a great contender! They’ll feel more at ease and less compelled to run off and explore.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Location
If you’re bringing your dog, don’t just look for a beautiful location. Make sure it’s dog-friendly, too! Doing your research in advance is especially important if the area is unfamiliar to you and your dog.
Bring Treats and Toys
Your dog probably won’t be able to stay focused and obedient for the entire photo session. So, make sure to take some distractions along!
Plan Rest Breaks
Dogs can easily become tired or restless during lengthy photo sessions. So, be sure to plan for regular rest breaks. Allow them time to relax, recharge, and explore their surroundings at their own pace, ensuring they remain happy and cooperative throughout the session. During these breaks, we can take pictures of just the two of you. That leads me to tip number five!
Bring a Dog Wrangler
While it will be fun to include your pup in some photos, we’ll want at least a few engagement portraits with just the two of you! This is made easier by bringing along a friend or family member to hang with your dog while we finish the session.
Dress Your Dog Appropriately
Consider dressing your dog in comfortable accessories that complement the overall aesthetic of the shoot. Whether it's a stylish bandana, a cute bow tie, or a floral collar, adding a touch of flair to your furry friend's attire can enhance the visual appeal of the photos.
Embrace Imperfection
Embrace the spontaneity that comes with including your dog in engagement photos. Whether they're distracted by squirrels, rolling in the grass, or giving curious sniffs to every object in sight, these candid moments represent exactly who your dog is, and should be!
Do these Tips only apply to dogs?
While these tips are tailored to dog owners, they can be applied to any pet. Whether you have a cat, rabbit, or pet pig, prioritizing their comfort, incorporating their unique personality, and embracing spontaneous moments can result in unforgettable photos that capture the bond between you, your partner, and your beloved furry, feathered, or scaled companion. As an animal lover, I would be thrilled to hang out with any of the above (and get to know you, of course!). Contact me to book your pet-friendly engagement session!
Do you want to go a step further and include your pet in your wedding day festivities? Well, you're in luck! While we've covered the basics of including your dog in engagement photos here, there's even more to explore when it comes to including your pet in your big day. That's why I've dedicated an entire blog post to this topic!
