Whether you’re dreaming of a regal classic portrait of your pup or hoping for cute candids with the whole family (or both), we’ll work together to get the perfect photos during your pet photo session!
Long before the session, we go through our planning phase. This is when I start to get a vision of your session swirling around in my head.
During the planning phase, we’ll chat about all the details for the session, including the location, your vision, your pet’s unique personality, what motivates your pup (and your human kids, if they are in the photos, too), your pup’s training level and so much more. I also love to ask for any inspiration photos you may have so I can get a true sense of the “feeling” you want me to capture.
I love that each and every Handcrafted Pet Photo Session is not the same and is custom for you. However, I do have my toolbox of ideas that are a good starting foundation that we build upon during your pet photo session. Not all of these ideas can be done at every session, and, of course, in no way are we limited to just these ideas.
Not only will my eyes and my camera capture your moment. Most importantly, my heart will be my guide to breathe life, dimension, honesty, and love into your images. Here are the 15 pose ideas for your pet photo session.
15 Poses for Your Pet Photography Session!
1. Walk the Dog – It’s a good way to start the session (especially with a family) unless your pup still needs to get his “wiggles” out. Then I would suggest starting with some fun action (see #5).
2. Sit, Stay! – Your pup can sit solo or with you and the family on the grass, bench, or wherever is best at the session location.
3. Classic Pose – I usually use treats, funny noises, or someone can stand behind me to get your pup (or kids) to look right at the camera while they are sitting or standing.
4. Get Down – Getting down low (on the ground) at the dog’s eye level. It’s the angle where I take a lot of my photos during a pet photo session.
5. Ready, Set, Action! – Running or playing at fast action! My shutter speed gets cranked up!
6. Puppy Dog Eyes – Those sweet eyes are looking up at the camera. It’s a familiar angle that you see your pup. Extra points if we can get a head tilt, too.
7. Playtime – Just capturing a fun, silly activity your pup loves.
8. It’s All in the Details – Get up close to focus on details of your pup or of you and your pup together during your pet photo session.
9. Gimme Some Love – All the feels of a special bond.
10. Up Ups – Using logs, big rocks, benches, etc., to contain your pup in one spot for an extra few seconds.
11. “In, But Not In” the Photo – You are basically a prop in the photo. We know you are there, but your pup is the main focus. Just a small part (hand, legs, back of head, etc.) of you is showing, or you are blurred out. A great way to be a part of the photo!
12. Dogscape – Your dog fits in compositionally with the landscape and is clearly the main subject. This is shot at a wide angle and at a bigger depth of field.
13. Ready for My Close Up – A close-up with very little background.
14. Metro Mutt – An urban backdrop. It can be fun to find interesting backgrounds and angles to photograph your pup in.
15. Candids/In Between Moments – I am always prepared (and helping prompt) to capture the real, relaxed moments during a session.
15.1 Documentary Style – Capturing moments as they happen. Not much directing is involved with this style.
Your Photo Session
I hope you feel excited and inspired after reading those pet photo session ideas! I know I am! Each Handcrafted Pet Photo Session is totally custom and a lot of fun. Throughout the session, we go with the flow and love on your pet. I simply apply my tricks and techniques to capture the poses you want. If you want to connect with me, send me a message here. I’d love to chat and get to know you as well as your furry friend.
