How to Prepare Your Dog for a Photo Session (Without Stressing Yourself Out)
If you’re reading this thinking, “My dog is going to be the worst one she’s ever worked with…”
I’m going to stop you right there.
Respectfully? Fido probably doesn’t even crack my top 10.
As a professional pet photographer, I’ve worked with every personality you can imagine—high-energy dogs, stubborn dogs, shy dogs, dogs who think sitting is a personal attack… and we still get the shot.
So let’s take a deep breath and talk about how to actually prepare your dog for a Fall Marie Photography session—without the stress spiral.
First Things First: Your Dog Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect
Your dog does not need to be fully trained, off-leash obedient, or auditioning for a dog show.
They just need to be… your dog.
Some of the best pet portraits come from personality, not perfection. The head tilts, the curiosity, the little quirks—that’s the good stuff.
So no, I’m not expecting a robot. I’m expecting real, raw, and lick bombed!
Tell Me About Your Dog (This Helps More Than You Think)
Before your pet photography session, I need the inside scoop.
Let me know:
What commands your dog knows (sit, stay, down… or “absolutely not”)
Any key words that get their attention
Whether they’re treat-motivated, toy-motivated, or otherwise
Any quirks, fears, or “please don’t do this unless you want drama” situations
This helps me tailor the session to your dog, not some generic expectation of what a “good dog” should be.
Because every dog is different—and that’s the fun part!
Tire Them Out (Just a Little… Not a Marathon)
Before your session, take your dog out to:
Go to the bathroom
Burn off a little energy with a walk or playtime
We’re not trying to exhaust them into a nap, we just want to take the edge off so they’re not bouncing off the walls the second we start.
A slightly mellow dog = a much smoother dog photo session.
Bring the Good Stuff
High-value treats are your best friend here.
Not the “meh, I guess I’ll eat this” kind. I’m talking:
Soft treats
Smelly treats
The treats they would commit minor crimes for
If your dog is more toy-driven, bring their favorite squeaky or ball.
We will absolutely use these to get attention, eye contact, and those perfect little expressions.
BUT, just know I’ve got my own stash of treats, squeakers, and more if all else fails!
Let Me Do My Job
This one’s important.
I need you to trust me.
I know how to work with dogs. I know how to read their behavior, adjust quickly, and get the shot—even when it looks like chaos in the moment.
When you’re stressed, your dog feels it. And when your dog feels it? That’s when things get harder than they need to be.
So instead of worrying about whether they’re “being good,” let me take the lead.
You don’t need to apologize every five seconds.
You don’t need to panic.
You don’t need to brace for judgment.
I promise—I’ve got it.
Your Only Job? Have Fun.
At the end of the day, this isn’t just a pet photography session—it’s an experience.
You’re here to make memories with your dog. To laugh a little. To embrace the chaos. To capture this stage of their life exactly as it is.
So enjoy it.
The best photos happen when you relax, let your dog be themselves, and trust the process.
Final Thoughts (From Someone Who’s Seen It All)
Your dog is not “too much.”
Your dog is not “too difficult.”
Your dog is not “the worst one I’ve ever seen.”
Your dog is just your dog—and that’s exactly who I want to photograph.
Preparing your dog for a pet photography session doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little prep, the right mindset, and an experienced dog photographer, you’ll walk away with personality-filled, authentic pet portraits you’ll love forever.
