How to Prepare Your Dog for a Pet Photography Session

Gold Coast | Sunshine Coast | Brisbane Pet photography

Whether you're celebrating a new pup or honouring a lifetime of love, booking a pet photography session is an experience you’ll never forget. But what about your dog—how do you prepare them for a photoshoot?

As a professional pet photographer serving Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, I’ve worked with dogs of every age, size, and personality. Here’s how to set your pup up for success on the day.

1. Choose a Location Your Dog Loves

My mobile pet studio means we can shoot at your home, the beach, or even a favourite park. I recommend a space your dog feels relaxed in—it makes all the difference. The more familiar the environment, the more natural your dog will feel in front of the camera.

2. Exercise, Then Rest

Before your session, give your dog a light walk or play session to release excess energy. Just avoid over-tiring them—we want them calm, not exhausted. A short sniff walk does wonders.

3. Bring Their Favourite Treats & Toys

Squeaky toy? Cheese cubes? Peanut butter? YES, please. I use lots of positive reinforcement, so having your dog’s absolute favourite motivators on hand helps capture the best expressions.

Pro tip: Avoid crumbly or messy treats that might show up in photos.

4. Groom Lightly, Not Perfectly

You don’t need a full grooming appointment—just a gentle brush and a clean face. This is about capturing your pet as they are, not as a show dog (unless that’s their thing!). If your dog wears a special collar, bowtie, or bandana, feel free to include it.

5. Stay Chill—They’ll Mirror You

Dogs are intuitive. If you're calm and relaxed, they'll sense it. If you're stressed, they'll pick that up too. Trust that I’ll take care of everything—we’ll move at your dog’s pace, with plenty of breaks and cuddles in between.

6. Let Go of “Perfect”

The most meaningful portraits aren’t always the posed ones. They’re the soft head tilts, the cheeky expressions, the spark in their eyes when they see you. Let’s aim for real over perfect—because that’s where the magic is.

Ready to Book Your Session?

I photograph pets across Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Whether it’s a puppy milestone or an emotional Rainbow Bridge session, I’m here to help you hold onto their story—forever.

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