Get Ready, Get Set... Paws! Preparing Your Dog for Studio Portraits

How to Prepare Your Dog for a Stress-Free, Fun, and Beautiful Studio Portrait Session

Studio portraits are one of the best ways to capture every spark of your dog’s personality—those goofy grins, soft expressions, and all the tiny details that make them so special. To help you feel fully prepared (and help your dog feel like the star they are), here’s a full guide on how to get ready for your upcoming studio session.

Good grooming truly shines in studio lighting. If your pup gets regular hair cuts, make sure you schedule one a day or two BEFORE their studio session. Don't schedule the groom the same day as your portrait session as we want your dog relaxed and happy, not tired from an already busy day. Here’s what makes a big difference:

The Day Before:

• Give your dog a gentle brush to remove loose hair and fluff their coat

• If they’re a longer-haired breed, check for tangles around ears, tail, and belly

• Swap out worn collars if they’ll be wearing one in photos

• If your dog drools, pack a towel—studio drool happens to the best of us

The Morning Of:

• Wipe their eyes, nose, and mouth

• Give paws a quick clean (especially those fluffy toe beans!)

• Bring a brush or comb if they tend to get scruffy quickly

Clean dogs photograph better—but most importantly, they feel better. Comfort = confidence, and confidence = gorgeous portraits.

Some dogs walk in ready to model… and some walk in like they just drank three espresso shots.

If your dog is high-energy, anxious, young, or simply very excitable, a 10–20 minute walk beforehand works wonders. It won’t tire them out—it will simply help them release that first wave of “OH MY GOSH NEW PLACE NEW SMELLS HI HUMAN” so they can settle faster once we start shooting.

If your dog is older or low-energy, this step is optional. No marathon needed.

Studio lighting is safe for dogs, but the brief pop of a flash can surprise them if it’s their first time. A little exposure at home can help even timid pups feel more at ease.

Try this:

• Go into a dimmer room

• Take 3–5 quick photos with your phone’s flash

• Pair it with praise or a treat

• That’s it!

Your dog doesn’t need full “flash training”—just enough to understand that bright light = no big deal. Many owners tell me this step made a huge difference in helping their dog settle quickly in the studio.

4. Pick Props That Make the Session Personal and FUN

The magic of studio portraits is the chance to add personality and creativity. While I provide props and ideas, I love when clients bring items that are meaningful or just plain silly. Props aren't necessary and we can get lots of great images of your pup with no props at all!

Here are some ideas to inspire you:

Sentimental Items

• Their very first puppy collar

• A toy they’ve carried for years

• A blanket they sleep with

• A tag or charm with special meaning

• An item that represents a memory or milestone

Cute or Themed Props

• Bow ties, bandanas, or scarves

• Sunglasses or silly glasses

• Flower crowns or seasonal accessories

• Hats, mini wigs, or costumes

• Bubbles, fake snow, confetti, hearts, balloons

• Toilet paper for “puppy chaos” themes

• Lemons, limes, fruit props, whipped cream, peanut butter—anything quirky and fun

Personality Props

• Sports gear (team scarves, jerseys, balls)

• Items that show hobbies (camping gear, hiking backpacks, mugs, boots)

• Their favourite treat or food theme

• Something that tells YOUR story too—your dog is part of your life, so bring a piece of it!

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help brainstorm a theme or recommend props based on your pup’s vibe.

To help the session run smoothly, pack a small “pup kit” with:

• Their regular leash and collar/walking set

• High-value treats (the stinkier the better), I have treats in my studio but if they have a more sensitive tummy, it helps if the treats are what they are already used to

• A favourite squeaker or noise-making toy (I have lots of these as well, but if they have a favourite, feel free to bring it)

• A soft brush or grooming wipe if needed

• Any props you’re bringing

If your dog has allergies or can’t have certain treats, please let me know ahead of time.

I always start sessions at your dog’s pace—no pressure, no rush.

Your pup will have time to sniff the studio, meet me, and get a feel for the space before the lights turn on.

Every dog is different. Some warm up instantly. Some need a few minutes. Some need to do a lap around the room six times. It’s all completely normal.

I’ll guide your dog gently into poses, reward them often, and keep everything structured but flexible. My goal is always to help them feel safe, confident, and happy so we can capture their true spirit.

Dogs take cues from us—if you feel relaxed, they will too.

Your dog doesn’t need to sit perfectly or pose like a trained model. They just need to be themselves.

We’ll work with whatever energy, quirks, and personality your dog brings to the session. Those genuine expressions are the magic.

Prepping for a studio session doesn’t have to be stressful. A little grooming, a short walk, a few flash pops at home, and a fun prop or two can make a huge difference. But at the end of the day, the best portraits come when your dog feels safe, happy, and loved—and that part, you already have covered.

I can’t wait to photograph your pup and create vibrant, fun, emotional portraits you’ll cherish for years.