How to Prep for a Photo Session with Your Pet - Vancouver, WA / Portland, OR Photographer
TL;DR
Happy pet portraits = calm plan + tiny treats + safe locations. Bring a handler, a simple leash/collar, lint brush, water, and favorite treats. We’ll photograph energy first, then calm cuddles. Choose Felida Overlook, Beaver Marsh, or studio for a controlled environment. Print a float frame or metal for the mud-room wall you see every day.
Before you arrive (15-minute prep)
Exercise lightly 1–2 hours prior (not exhaustion).
Grooming: quick brush, eye-area wipe, trim long whisker gunk if needed.
Gear check: non-retractable leash, plain collar/harness (no busy patterns).
Treats & toy: high-value treats (pea-sized), a squeaker that isn’t overpowering.
ID tag: make sure it’s on, just in case.
Location picks (Vancouver/Clark County)
Studio: distraction-controlled; best for skittish pets or winter days.
Felida Overlook Park: open shade, easy parking, sunset glow.
Beaver Marsh: nature textures, boardwalk lines, birds (bring extra treats).
Session flow (dog example)
Hello & sniff the space/camera; slow kneel; treat.
Action first: walking shot to release jitters.
Hero portrait: sit/stand on low prop, handler just out of frame.
With person: hands-in-fur close-ups and cuddles.
Detail: nose, paws, profile, tag.
Freedom frame: long-lead or safe off-leash area if appropriate.
Safety & comfort
Spotter within arm’s reach; no high or tippy surfaces.
Shade/water breaks every 10 minutes in warm weather.
If reactive: we choose low-traffic times; studio may be best.
What to wear (for humans in the frame)
Neutrals + one accent color; shoes you can walk in.
Avoid jangly bracelets (noise) and lint-magnet knits—bring the lint roller.
After the session: print it!
Float frame or deckled edge for cozy rooms.
Metal print for entryways (wipeable, durable).
Folio box to add a new portrait each season.
FAQs
Can my dog be off-leash?
Only if local rules and your dog’s recall allow. We create “off-leash looks” with long leads we remove in editing.
Do you photograph cats?
Yes—studio or in-home works best for cats. We plan short, quiet sets with hiding spots.
Multiple pets?
Absolutely. We start with individuals, then small groupings. A second handler helps.
What if my pet is anxious/reactive?
We choose quiet times/places, keep distance, and work with calming prompts. Studio control is often ideal.
How long is a session?
45–60 minutes with breaks, tailored to your pet’s energy.
