Five Mistakes to Avoid Before a Pet Photography Session
Getting professional photos of your pet is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. After all, it’s not every day your pet gets to be the center of attention! But many pet parents unintentionally make mistakes that can lead to stress — for them, their pets, and even the photographer.
The good news? With a little preparation, you can avoid the most common pitfalls and set your furry friend up for a relaxed, fun, and memorable session.
1. Not getting your pet groomed — or getting it done at the wrong time
Mistake: Waiting until the day before (or skipping it entirely) to groom your pet. Fresh cuts can look too sharp or uneven, while matted fur or dirt may show up clearly in photos.
Instead: Schedule a grooming appointment 3–7 days before the session. This gives the fur time to settle and look more natural. A quick brush the night before will also help their coat shine beautifully.
2. Arriving rushed or stressed
Mistake: Pets pick up on your energy — if you're frazzled, they’ll feel it too, which can lead to a chaotic session.
Instead: Arrive early, take a few deep breaths, and treat the session like a fun playdate rather than a formal photo shoot. Your calm, relaxed energy will help your pet feel calm and cooperative.
3. Feeding your pet right before the session
Mistake: Many owners feed their pets a full meal before the session, especially if it’s in the evening.
Instead: Bring their dinner or high-value treats with you. Many pets, especially dogs, love to “work” for rewards. You’ll be amazed how many learn that posing equals treats!
4. Exercising too much or too little
Mistake: Taking your energetic dog for a long hike before the session may leave them exhausted. On the other hand, under-exercising an older dog could make them too sluggish.
Instead: Give younger dogs a light walk or play session beforehand to help them burn off excess energy and focus better. For senior pets, save their energy for the shoot — the session itself will likely be enough activity.
5. Choosing the wrong location for your pet’s personality
Mistake: Picking a busy or unfamiliar location can overwhelm your pet and lead to distraction, fear, or overstimulation.
Instead: Choose a location where your pet feels comfortable and relaxed.
Your pet doesn’t need to "pose perfectly" to get beautiful, photos , but a little preparation goes a long way. That’s why I always schedule a pre-session consultation and styling session before the photo session. We’ll cover everything you need to know to help you and your furry family members make joyful memories you’ll treasure forever.
If you’ve been waiting to set up a pet photography session but are too overwhelmed with how to make it happen, let’s chat! I’m here to walk you through every step to creating beautiful, heartwarming images you’ll have forever. CONTACT ME!
