top of page
Writer's pictureJessica Butterworth

Creating Lasting Memories: Factors to Consider When Including Your Pet in Senior Photography

Should I include my dog in my senior photography session?


Including your pet in your senior photo session can be a great way to add a special, memorable and personal touch to your photos. However, whether or not to include your pet in your session ultimately depends on a few factors: Including your dog in your senior portrait session can be a great way to add a personal touch to your photos and create lasting memories with your furry friend. However, whether or not to include your dog in your session ultimately depends on a few factors:



  1. Your pet's behavior: It's important to consider your pet's behavior before deciding to include them in your session. If your pet is well-behaved and comfortable in new environments, they may be a great addition to your photos. However, if your pet is easily stressed, aggressive, or difficult to control, it may be best to leave them at home.

  2. Your photographer's policy: Be sure to check with your photographer to see if they allow pets in their photo sessions. Some photographers may have restrictions on the types of pets they allow, or may charge an additional fee for including pets in your session.

  3. The location of your session: If your session is taking place outdoors, be sure to consider your pet's safety and comfort. Make sure the location is pet-friendly and that you have the appropriate supplies (such as water and waste bags) to care for your pet during the session.

  4. Your pet's comfort: Be sure to bring along any necessary items to keep your pet comfortable during the session, such as treats, toys, water, and a leash or harness. Also, consider the weather conditions and make sure your pet is dressed appropriately.

  5. Coordination: If you are bringing your pet to your photo shoot, coordinate with your photographer in advance to discuss any special instructions or accommodations that may be necessary. You may also want to bring an extra person to help handle your pet during the session.

If you do decide to include your pet in your senior photography session, be sure to coordinate their outfit (if applicable) with yours and bring any necessary supplies (such as treats and toys) to help keep them comfortable and happy during the session.



With a little planning and preparation, including your pet in your senior photography session can be a great way to create fun and memorable photos. If you have decided to include your dog in your senior portrait session, there are a few items you may want to consider bringing along to help ensure that your dog is comfortable, happy, and well-behaved during the session:



  1. Treats: Bring along your dog's favorite treats to help keep them motivated and well-behaved during the session. Treats can also be used to reward your dog for good behavior and help keep them focused on the camera.

  2. Toys: Bring along a few of your dog's favorite toys to help keep them occupied and entertained during the session. This can help prevent them from getting bored or restless and keep their attention focused on the camera.

  3. Leash and collar: Even if your dog is well-trained, it's always a good idea to bring along a leash and collar to help keep them safe and under control during the session. You may also want to bring along a harness or other restraint if your dog tends to pull or jump.

  4. Water and bowl: Bring along a small water bottle and bowl to help keep your dog hydrated during the session, especially if it's a hot day or you will be shooting for an extended period of time.

  5. Grooming supplies: Bring along a brush or grooming tool to help keep your dog looking their best during the session. You may also want to bring along some wipes or paper towels to clean up any drool or dirt.

  6. An extra person to watch and care for your pup while he or she is not being photographed.Bringing an extra person to watch your pet during a photo session can be a good idea, especially if your pet requires a lot of attention or tends to get easily distracted or agitated. This person can help keep your pet calm, focused, and well-behaved during the session, and can also help with handling or restraining your pet if necessary. If you are planning to bring an extra person to watch your pet during your photo session, it's important to let your photographer know in advance so they can plan accordingly. You may also want to coordinate with your photographer and the extra person to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding your pet's behavior and needs. Overall, bringing an extra person to watch your pet during a photo session can be a great way to ensure that your pet is comfortable and well-behaved, and can help you create beautiful and memorable photos with your furry friend.



By bringing these items with you to your portrait session, you can help ensure that your dog is comfortable, happy, and well-behaved, and create lasting memories with your furry friend. By considering these factors and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure that your pet is safe, comfortable, and well-behaved during your photo shoot, and create beautiful and memorable photos with your furry friend.


Ready to include your furry friend in your senior photography session? Make sure to consider your pet's behavior, your photographer's policy, the location of your session, and your pet's comfort before making a decision. If you do decide to bring your pet, remember to bring treats, toys, a leash and collar, water and bowl, grooming supplies, and an extra person to watch and care for your pet. With these items and a little planning, you can create fun and memorable photos with your beloved companion.


This blog is written by Jessica Butterworth, a senior and family photographer at Behind the Shutter LLC in Grand Blanc, Michigan.





5 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page