I know your pup is part of your family. That’s why you should include them in your photo session! However, taking engagement photos with dogs isn’t always easy. Lucky for you, I’m here to help! Here are 8 tips for taking engagement photos with dogs.

Tips for Taking Engagement Photos with Dogs

1. Bring a friend to help during your session. This one is a must! It’s hard for us to focus on getting great images when you’re constantly worried about your dog! Bring a trusted friend who is great with dogs along to your session. They can be responsible for them and help tire them out. This also allows us to get some photos without your dog. 
2. Make sure your location is pet friendly. Think about your dog and what environments they are comfortable in before settling on a photo location. If you have a dog who gets anxious around a lot of people, maybe a sunrise session or a remote park is a better location choice. 
3. Let them play a little more before your session time. Dogs tend to be more cooperative and sit nicer after they are tuckered out a bit!
4. Bring their favorite noise toy (and pass along to the photographer). A squeaky toy can help capture your dog’s attention and get them to look at the camera. Give your dog’s favorite toy to your photographer so they can hold it near their camera. 
5. Bring the best treats. You will want a way to reward your pup during the photo session. Bring small, tasty treats we can use throughout the photo session to get them to cooperate. 
6. Purchase a beautiful leash & collar. Keep in mind that the dog’s leash and collar or harness may show in photos. If you know a leash is necessary for your dog, make sure it’s not an eyesore. Something neutral will work best. Consider getting a collar that matches your pup!
7. Practice basic commands in busy areas before the photo session. There will likely be a lot of stimulation on your photo day. Help your dog practice listening to commands even when there are a lot of distractions. I recommend practicing this starting about 2 weeks before your session.
8. Have fun! Let your dog get comfortable in front of the camera and their true personality will shine!It’s okay if they don’t stay perfectly still. The best photos are genuine. If your dog has a fun personality, embrace it!

Conclusion

I hope this advice encourages you to bring your fur baby to your engagement photos! You can see more pup friendly engagement sessions by Silverbridge & Co. on my blog!