Getting your puppy ready for a photo shoot can be exciting for dog owners. After all, who doesn’t love capturing their furry friend’s little paws and cute antics in some adorable pics? But trust us when we say you don’t want to dive headfirst into this without being properly prepared. There will be chaos, and you don’t want to make the situation any harder than it needs to be.
Follow our top tips so you and your pup are ready to turn heads during your next trip down the studio aisle!
Grooming and Trimming
Dense fur can be distracting in photos. Make sure to give your pup a good brush down so that the coat is neat and clean. Long-haired breeds, in particular, need a bit of extra attention when grooming and trimming. Even if you’re not looking for a salon-style cut, take some time to neaten up around their face and paws, so everything looks perfect in the pics.
However, never schedule a grooming session before a shoot, as this could make your pup too tired or stressed to perform.
Keep the Poses Ready
Not all photos have to be of your pup just sitting still. You can get creative with it and come up with different poses that will make the photos stand out. Have a few poses you want to try out during the session and practice with your pup. You can also download stock photos to get an idea of what poses might look good in the camera.
Some of the most hit poses include fetching a toy, getting cuddled by you, and the classic “downward dog.” Even something as simple as your pup’s tail wagging can make for a fantastic shot.
Always Bathe the Dog Before the Shoot
Fluffy and clean fur is the key to great photos. Make sure to give your pup a good bath before their session, so they are all clean and ready for some fun.
Using a no-rinse shampoo is also a good idea, so you don’t have to wait too long for your pup’s fur to dry. When bathing your dog, pay attention to their nails, cleaning out any dirt or debris that may have gotten stuck.
Accessories
Dress up your pup in a cute bandana, a bow tie, or a snazzy collar. It can add fun and flair to the photos, making them even more attractive.
Remember that accessories should be comfortable and not too tight around your pup’s neck. You don’t want them to start feeling uncomfortable during the shoot and ruin all your hard work.
If your puppy has a long coat, you can consider braiding the fur or styling it with a ribbon. We are sure the pictures will stand out!
Pre-Shoot Burn Out
Do you have a hyperactive poodle or golden retriever? You might consider taking them for a long walk or playing with them before the shoot. It will help to tire out their energy so they don’t drag out the photo session by running around.
You can try a game of fetch in the park or a run around the neighborhood. It will also help to get your pup used to being photographed so they don’t freak out when the camera is pointed at them.
Safety First
Be sure to keep your pup’s safety in mind during the shoot. Some breeds are more accident-prone than others, and there could be a lot of props and equipment lying around. For instance, if you’re shooting outdoors, watch out for sharp branches or sticks that could injure your pup if they get too excited.
It’s worth speaking to the photographer beforehand about any safety concerns you might have and discussing the best way to handle any potential hazards.
Bring What Your Dog Loves
Sparkly eyes and big smiles are all part of the package when it comes to puppy photoshoots. So, make sure you bring some of their favorite toys and treats. Does their world light up when they hear the jingle of a treat bag? If so, it might be worth stocking up on their favorite snacks.
Feed Them Light Meals
Finally, make sure your pup is well-fed before the shoot. If the session will take a few hours, opt for lighter meals, so they don’t feel uncomfortable or bloated. A can of wet dog food or a few biscuits should do the trick.
On the other hand, you don’t want them to be too hungry either, as this could make them a bit grumpy or distracted. There’s nothing worse than uncooperative puppies in the middle of a photoshoot! F
Final Thoughts
Puppy shoots are usually pretty casual. But if you want your furry friend to look their best, bring along some toys or accessories that will make them pop on camera. Also, remember that you’ll be posing with them too, so dress comfortably and be prepared to make lots of funny faces!
With these tips in mind, you and your pup should be well on nailing the perfect puppy shot.