Photographing Dogs and Cats Safely On-Leash

When it comes to capturing the essence of our furry companions through photography, pet parents often have concerns about whether their pets will be suitable subjects for a portrait session.

They worry that even though the images on our social media and website are amazing that they can’t possibly get the same images of THEIR dogs or cats.

Let's address some of these common worries and explain how a professional pet photographer can ensure a successful and memorable experience.

For the Golden Oldies: Gentle Care for Senior Pets

Aging pets hold a special place in our hearts, and their portraits carry a timeless beauty.

If your senior pet has trouble walking or standing, rest assured that we prioritize their comfort throughout the session.

Owners are encouraged to stay close, offering support and cuddles that often make for deeply touching photographs.

Sometimes ill and aging pets need a helping, loving hand during their session, and that’s a-okay.

Thanks to editing, you can still get the perfect portrait, knowing it was taken safely.

We carefully select locations that are easy for older pets to navigate, and we can be prepared with a cozy wagon or comfortable blankets for them to rest on.

Our sessions are relaxed and paced according to your pet's needs, with plenty of breaks to ensure they don't get tired.

The Young and the Restless: Capturing High Energy Pets

Young and adult pets are full of energy and sometimes seem like they never sit still! If you’re like me, you’ve got hundreds of photos on your phone trying to capture the fun and play, but man are they all blurry!

This is where choosing a pet-specific photographer becomes invaluable. Our team consists of experienced pet professionals – I myself have worked in veterinary medicine and with rescue animals, while my assistant has a lively pack of five dogs at home.

Long lines are perfect for being able to safely enjoy a bit of play during your session.

This allows them to stay safe, and you to be able to remember the joy they had from play.

We understand the quirks and vivacity of young or spirited pets and have the patience and skill to work with any personality and energy level.

The More, The Merrier: Photographing Multiple Pets

Got a trio or more of furry friends who seem impossible to photograph together? Worry not!

Pets don't have to sit side by side or even cooperate at the same time. Take a look at the 4 images below where our assistant animal handler is helping to get individual portraits of all FIVE dogs this lovely family had.

Now take a look at this next image, a beautiful pack portrait of the whole family together, the stunning image this family had printed!

We specialize in capturing each pet individually and then beautifully combining these images to create a stunning group portrait. This approach allows each pet to shine and results in a family photo that you’ll treasure forever.

Camera Shy: When Pets Look Away

It's a common tale: as soon as the phone comes out, your pet looks away. It's not just you – even photographers often face this dilemma with their own pets!

The novelty of a new person (like a photographer) and professional equipment often piques a pet’s interest enough for them to look our way. Plus, with modern cameras and a few tried-and-true tricks up our sleeves, we only need a fraction of a second to capture that perfect shot.

An almost perfect family portrait, but George was much more interested in a jogger running by.

Much better. No more leashes and George is paying attention.

Not to mention, as illustrated above, we can fix any silly faces or pets who aren’t paying attention.

Feline Friends: Embracing the Adventure with Your Cat

While dogs are often the stars of pet photography, let's not forget our feline friends who can be equally photogenic and charismatic.

Many cat owners might not consider a professional photo session for their cat, especially if they're worried about safety outdoors. However, cats can also enjoy a photo session safely on a leash!

Angelo is an adventurous and curious little guy, despite being fairly new to the leash and harness.

If your cat isn't used to a harness, it’s a good idea to acclimate them to wearing one gradually before the session. Start by letting them wear it for short periods around the house, gradually increasing the time. Once they seem comfortable, you can try walking them in a secure area.

Ready to Capture Your Pet’s Perfect Portrait?

We hope this has eased some of your concerns about booking a pet portrait session for your dog or cat. Remember, every pet is unique, and that’s what we love to capture – the individual personality and charm of your furry family member.

If you have any other worries or questions about organizing a session for your dog, cat, or any other pet, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below or reach out to us. We're here to make sure your pet's photography session is a comfortable, fun, and rewarding experience!

Let's create beautiful memories together – contact us today to book your pet portrait session! 🐾✨