Pet Photoshoot Prep Guide
Preparing for your studio session
There is less to prepare than you may think.
Your pet does not need special training and there is no expectation that they will sit perfectly or look at the camera.
A few simple things can make arriving at an unfamiliar studio easier.
Before you come
Keep the day as normal as possible.
If you have an energetic dog, a short walk before the session can help take the edge off some of that energy.
Avoid a large meal immediately beforehand, particularly if we are going to use treats during the shoot.
If your pet is older, has limited mobility, is nervous around strangers or there is anything else I should know, tell me beforehand.
They do not need perfection. They simply need to arrive.
What to bring
You do not need much.
- favourite treats
- a favourite toy, if they have one
- their usual lead and collar
- water
A familiar blanket can also be useful for some animals.
I have treats in the studio, but you know what your pet will cross a room for. Bring those.
A little grooming goes a long way
You do not need to have your pet professionally groomed for the photographs.
A brush to remove loose hair and a quick check around the eyes, nose and paws is usually enough.
If professional grooming is part of their normal routine, that is different. The important thing is not to introduce something unfamiliar immediately before the shoot simply for the photographs.
What to wear if you are joining them
If you are going to be photographed with your pet, keep your clothing simple.
Black and neutral colours work particularly well with my black background. Avoid large logos, graphics and busy patterns.
Wear something comfortable enough to sit, stand or get down beside your pet if we need to.
The clothes should never become more important than the two of you.
When you arrive
Some animals walk straight into the studio and begin investigating.
Others stay close to their person and need a little longer.
Both are normal.
We give them time to look around, sniff things and meet me before expecting anything from them.
There is no rush to start photographing the moment you arrive.
During the session
You do not need to direct your pet.
That is my job.
I will work with what they give me, using treats or toys when they help and taking breaks when we need them.
They may sit beautifully.
They may not.
Some of the photographs that matter most happen when they stop doing what we thought we wanted them to do.
They do not need to perform for me.
If you would like to know why I choose to photograph pets in the studio rather than outdoors or at home, I have written about that separately.
Benefits of a studio pet photoshoot →
After the session
Before you leave, we look through the photographs together and choose the portraits you would like me to finish.
Your selected portraits are individually retouched and delivered as finished digital files.
You can also choose framed portraits, wall pieces and albums.
Ready when you are
For session fees, portrait collections and more about how I photograph pets, you can read the full pet portrait experience.
View the pet portrait experience →
Contact me →
JOHANNESBURG PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER
One Moment. One Portrait. Forever
© 2005–2026 Bridget Corke Photography
Blairgowrie · Johannesburg · South Africa
International Master's in Portrait Photography
One of only two in Africa.