Engagement Photos with your Dog

Including your dog into your engagement photos can be really fun. Your dog is part of the family and part of your story together as a couple. So, what is the best way to include your dog in engagement photos? As a professional wedding photographer (and dog lover), I have some tips to help.

Most engagement sessions are one hour and include two outfits. I find it best to include your dog in about 10-15 minutes of your session, towards the middle of your time. I don’t recommend starting your session with your dog, because it is best to warm up in front of the camera with just the two of you, and then add your dog in a little later.

Adding your dog can be a little tricky at first, especially if they have a lot of energy. Sometimes I recommend holding your dog, sitting with them or knelling down to their level. It is also fun to get photos of the two of you walking your dog and a few portraits of your dog alone, looking at the camera or at you. Be patient. We’ll try different things and see what works best for your dog.

One of my most important tips for including a dog in your engagement photos is to have a person designated to be your dog’s “handler” or “buddy.” This could be a friend or family member, or someone you hire to come help. They can walk your dog, make sure they have water and treats and are taken care of when they are not participating in photos. This way you don’t have to worry about your pet at all and you can be present and focus on your photography.

Keeping your dog happy will help make the session easy for everyone. If your dog has a lot of energy, try to plan to arrive an hour early for your shoot and let your dog have a nice long walk to check out the area and run around. 

Consider what items you can bring to help make the time easier. What will make your pet the happiest–a favorite blanket or toy? And what items could help get them to look at the photographer–some treats? a squeaky toy?

Please let me know you will be bringing your dog with you so we can plan. First and foremost, we need to make sure the location for the photography session allows dogs and check any guidelines. Locations may require a leash at all times or have recommendations for safety, like watching out for snakes or cacti. Secondly, we will plan your time well to make the most of different areas throughout your location, your outfits and being able to change, and where your dog can stay while we are taking photos of just the two of you. 

I love dogs and would love to help you plan the perfect engagement session. Contact me today to talk about your session.

I also have some more tips about including your dog in your wedding day.