Strategic AssessmentProcess OptimizationHow to Prepare for Your Pet Portrait Session
Building Possibility Together 
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your portrait session an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Whether you're joining me for a mini session or a private portrait session, there are a few things you can do ahead of time to help you and your pet look and feel your best.
I've put together this guide to help you prepare your pet, get yourself ready, and know what to bring along. Some advice applies to every session, while a few extra considerations will help if you're joining me for a mini session.
Let's get into it!
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Session Prep Guide
· Session Prep Guide
Step-by-Step
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Step 1
Getting Your Pet Camera-Ready
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Step 2 →
Preparing for Your Session
JUMP TO STEP 2 →
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Step 3 →
What to Wear to Join Your Pet
JUMP TO STEP 3 →
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Step 4 →
Including Kids + Other Family Members
JUMP TO STEP 4 →
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Step 5 →
Session Day: A Few Things to Know
JUMP TO STEP 5 →
Step 1: Getting Your Pet Camera-Ready
No extraordinary measures needed, but a few simple preparations can make a difference, though.
Grooming + Coat Care
If your dog is due for a haircut or professional grooming, try to schedule it about one to three weeks before your session. This gives their coat a little time to settle into its usual shape.
A few other things worth taking care of:
Brush their coat: A good brushing helps remove loose fur, tangles, and anything that might be sticking out in unexpected directions.
Clean around their eyes: Remove any eye discharge that has accumulated. Being able to see your pet's eyes helps bring their personality to life in a portrait.
Trim their nails: If your pet needs a nail trim, take care of it a few days ahead of time so they won’t be sharp or rough.
Consider a bath: If your pet could use one, plan accordingly based on how their coat looks best after bathing. You know their grooming routine better than anyone.
And remember, a little messy fur or an unexpected eye boogie isn't going to ruin your portraits. I can take care of many small details during editing.
Does your pet need to practice?
Not necessarily!
If your dog already knows a few basic cues like sit, stay, or look at me, those can be helpful. But there's absolutely no need to spend the next two weeks drilling commands.
Some dogs are excellent students. Others have decided that listening is optional. Both can make wonderful portraits.
My job is to work with your pet's personality, not expect them to perform!
Keep their routing relatively normal
On the day of your session, stick to your pet's usual routine as much as possible.
For dogs, I recommend:
Feed breakfast (and lunch for later sessions) as usual. You can consider a slightly smaller meal to account for extra treats, but don't skip meals.
Give them an opportunity to get some exercise before arriving. A regular walk is usually perfect.
Avoid an exhausting workout. We want them comfortable and relaxed, not completely worn out.
Give them plenty of opportunities to go potty before the session.
For cats and other pets, stick with familiar routines and bring anything they may need to feel comfortable during the experience.
The goal is to arrive with a pet who has had their basic needs met and isn't already overwhelmed before we begin.
Step 2: Packing for Your Session
A few small things packed ahead of time can make the experience much easier and relaxing.
Bring their favorite treats
Treats are one of my most useful tools during a portrait session. They help reward your pet, encourage attention, and give us opportunities to capture those expressive looks.
I recommend bringing something your pet absolutely loves. Some favorites include:
Small pieces of cheese
Freeze-dried meat or fish
Soft training treats
Small pieces of hot dog
Whatever special snack gets their attention (carrots, popcorn, etc)
I have plenty of dog treats on-hand during sessions, but some pets have selective palettes. It’s always best to have something your pet absolutely loves.
If your pet has food allergies or dietary restrictions, please bring treats you know are safe for them.
Please keep treats tucked away until I ask you to grab them.
Bring a favorite toy
Some pets are much more interested in toys than treats. If yours lights up for a squeaky toy, tennis ball, or favorite stuffed animal, feel free to bring it along.
I have a collection of noise makers and attention-getters, but sometimes a familiar toy is exactly what we need.
One important thing: Keep toys tucked away until we decide to use them. Bringing out a favorite ball too early can turn our portrait session into a game of fetch before we've even started.
Collars, leashes, and accessories
Bring whatever you normally use to safely manage your pet.
If you'd like portraits without a collar or harness, we can discuss whether that's appropriate for your pet and the session setup. In-studio sessions do not require leashes and I typically photograph pets naked. On-location Pop-Up sessions typically require leashes. Safety always comes first.
If your dog enjoys wearing sweaters, bandanas, or other accessories, you're welcome to bring them along. Just keep in mind that simpler options tend to photograph best.
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