Whether you are a professional portrait or pet photographer or just a dog-loving family with a camera, here is a must-read pet photography guide with tips and ideas for the perfect family photos with dogs.
I will provide expert tips on planning, preparation, and capturing candid moments that showcase the love and joy that our canine pets bring into our lives.
You will also find some beautiful and creative dog family photoshoot ideas which you can try.
What items to bring for family photoshoots with dog?
Here are some items needed for family photoshoots with dog:
Dog treats.
Leash and collar.
Poop bags.
Blanket or mat.
Some snacks and water.
Some toys for the kids.
A brush to tidy up your dog’s coat before the shoot.
A. Tips for dog family photoshoot
1. Have a plan
Planning is a crucial aspect of a successful dog family photoshoot. Having a well-thought-out plan will not only save you time and energy, it will also help you to capture the best shots.
Below are some essential planning tips you may consider:
i. Discuss your client’s expectations
If you are a photographer, consider having a detailed discussion with your clients beforehand. This will help you understand their vision for the portrait, the specific message they want the picture to convey, and their desired effects and location.
If you are not a photographer, I suggest writing out your specific vision and theme for your family portraits on a piece of paper. This way, you can be sure of what props to use, what outfits to wear, and what poses to try.
ii. Create a shot list
Then create a detailed shot list outlining the different setups and poses you want to capture. Ensure you include specific group shots, individual portraits of each family member with the dog, family candid moments, and any creative ideas or poses you’d like to try.
Having a shot list will make the session organized and ensure you don’t miss any important shots during the photoshoot. If you are a photographer, it will showcase your professionalism.
iii. Time the photo session right
I suggest scheduling the photoshoot during moments of the day when the dog is usually calm and friendly. Similarly, ensure the timing connotes with the family members’ schedules.
NB: Whether or not you are a portrait photographer, having a plan for the photoshoot will make the session more fun and organized. However, be flexible with your plans.
2. Find an interesting location
Next, find a great, comfortable location for the portrait. I recommend using a location that holds meaning for your family.
It could be a park, your living room or backyard, a beach, or a botanical garden.
If your dog is comfortable indoors with diverse lights, you can consider using a photo studio for the session.
3. Get prepared for the photoshoot
The next step is to prepare and groom your family members and the canine for the photo session. This involves getting everyone properly dressed and ready for the moment.
Ensure the pet is well-fed, cleaned, and, most importantly, in a good or relaxed mood for pictures. This will make the session less stressful.
4. Consider posing the other family members first
When it comes to posing, do not pose the dog first. Instead, start with the other subjects and include the pet when everyone is properly positioned.
This will help make the dog easy to control during the photoshoot. In some cases, you might not even need to pose the animal as it will naturally enter the frame, saving you time and effort.
5. Consider bribing the dog with treats and toys
Generally, posing dogs for personal or group portraits can be challenging due to their unpredictable behavior and constant movements.
Therefore, I suggest using treats and toys to grab the dog’s attention and draw out lively expressions.
Squeaky dog toys and delicious treats can cause the dog to wag its tail, jump joyfully, and add a sense of playfulness to the family picture.
6. Focus on candid moments
I can tell you from experience that, sometimes, the best dog family portraits are the ones taken when the subjects are less conscious of the camera.
It could be when the kids are trying to pick up props or snuggle the dog or when the family members are trying to find a comfortable pose.
These natural moments often convey genuine emotions and make for cherished memories. So, watch out for these moments if you want to capture candid, interesting group pictures.
7. You must be patient and positive-minded
Generally, posing a large family or group of people for a photo can be challenging; including a dog in the frame will not make it any easier.
So, I encourage you to be patient during the session. Try different approaches, familiarize yourself with the pet, and shoot from different angles.
Allow for breaks and keep the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable. This way, you will be able to get cute pictures of the canine and the other subjects.
B. Creative ideas for dog family photoshoot
8. Matching or complementary outfits
Dressing up in matching outfits or clothes that match your furry friend’s coat color is one of the best ideas for family portraits with dogs. It showcases harmony and makes the picture visually appealing.
Interestingly, you don’t even have to dress the canine for the photoshoot; instead, dress up your whole family in matching costumes or casual attires that have the same color as your dog’s fur.
9. Consider an outdoor adventure with the furry friend
If your family enjoys outdoor activities, you can consider a hike or a day at the park with the canine companion.
And have a professional photographer or one of the family members capture candid moments of your family enjoying or exploring the natural environment together.
The picture will reveal everyone, including the canine’s adventure spirits.
10. Beachside picnic with the dog
Finally, consider making the family alongside dog photoshoot more fun and memorable by setting up a beachside picnic with dog-friendly treats and snacks.
And let the photographer capture everyone, including the pet, enjoying family time together on the sandy shore. The picturesque ocean backdrop and sharp sand will make the picture attractive and cute.