How to Prepare for Your Dog's 10-Minute Pop-Up Photo Session
If you've never had professional photos taken of your dog before, don't worry. A pop-up session is designed to be quick, fun, and stress-free.
Here are a few simple things you can do before you arrive to help us make the most of our 10 minutes together.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled session.
This gives your dog a chance to sniff around outside, go potty, take a meander around the block and settle a bit before it's time to step in front of the camera.
Arriving relaxed makes a big difference—especially since every minute counts during a pop-up session.
Bring High-Value Treats
Please bring treats your dog absolutely loves.
Even if your dog normally works for kibble at home, this is a great time to break out the good stuff. Soft, bite-sized treats that your dog gets excited about help me keep their attention and reward them throughout the session.
I always have plenty of treats on hand, but some dogs only respond to the highest -value treats in front of the camera. This is different for every dog, but I’ve seen hot dogs, slices of cheese, freeze-dried salmon, and even potato chips used!
If your dog has food allergies or dietary restrictions, no problem—just bring treats you know are safe for them.
Bring a Favorite Toy (If It Gets Their Attention)
Some dogs couldn't care less about treats once they're somewhere new.
If your dog lights up for a tennis ball, squeaky toy, or favorite stuffed animal, bring it along. Familiar toys often help me capture those alert expressions and adorable head tilts.
I do request that you keep it put away in a bag and only bring it out if we determine it’s needed. Bringing it out early can cause major distractions.
A Quick Brushing Goes a Long Way
Right before you leave home, give your dog a quick once-over.
A few minutes with a brush can remove loose fur and help their coat look polished. It's also a good time to wipe away any eye goop or dirt around the face.
Don't worry about perfection—I'll take care of the little details during editing.
Keep the Energy Calm
It's tempting to hype your dog up before photos, but calmer is usually better.
A short walk before you arrive is perfect. It gives your dog a chance to stretch their legs and burn off a little excitement without leaving them exhausted.
It’s always easier to hype up a lethargic dog than to settle an excited dog!
That's It!
One of the best parts about a pop-up session is how simple it is.
Bring your dog, a pocketful of treats, and maybe a favorite toy. I'll take care of the rest.
My job is to work with your dog's personality—not expect your dog to be perfectly trained. Whether they're outgoing, goofy, shy, or somewhere in between, we'll create portraits you'll love.
