Tips for Including Your Dog in Engagement Photos

December 17, 2020

Ya’ll know I love dogs. And I know you love dogs, too.

You’ve likely seen photos of my baby Maho (and if you’ve been around for even longer my other babies Olive and Maverick). Dogs are constant sources of joy and entertainment. So here are six tips for including your dog in engagement photos (and other portraits, too)!

I know that planning an engagement can be stressful even when you’re not bringing a dog, so here are some tips to make it super easy for you to include your dog in engagement photos!

Fenwick Island Summer, Dog in Engagement Photos

1. Pamper your pup!

Make sure to schedule some time to bring your dog to the groomer for a bath and brush. Get them looking great a few days before the session. Then, on the day of, give them a full brush out and clean their teeth, eyes, and ears if needed.

2. Plan your outfits accordingly.

I typically recommend neutral colors for engagement sessions so that my clients’ personalities can really shine in the images. An added layer of consideration for outfits when planning to bring your dog along is the color of your dog’s hair. Especially if you have a dog with a long coat, the hair is probably going to get on your clothes. So, if your dog has light-colored hair, plan to wear lighter-colored clothes and darker colors if you have a dog with black or dark brown hair.

3. Upgrade your leash.

I don’t know about you, but my leashes can get a little gross after regular use. After being out in the rain, mud, etc. your current, well-loved leash might be a bit of an eyesore in your photos. Stop by a local pet store and pick up a more stylish leash that complements your outfit colors.

4. Bring a friend!

Ask a friend or family member to come along to the session to look after the dog when the pup isn’t in a set of photos. They can hold the leash when the dog needs a break and help me get your dog’s attention focused near the camera. An extra set of helping hands will relieve some of the stress that goes along with bringing your fur baby to a photo shoot.

5. Exercise your dog beforehand.

Let out some of that pent-up energy in your pup by giving them a bit of exercise before the session. Throw around a ball with them in your backyard or give them some kind of puzzle treat to work their brains and make them a little tired. After they’ve let out that first burst of energy, they’ll be more ready for their close up!

6. Pack plenty of treats and toys!

This one probably goes unsaid, but bring along your dog’s favorite treats and toys. They’ll be essential for getting your dog’s attention and for rewarding him/her for being the goodest pup during the session.