The most common objection I hear when I put out a call for dog models or in response to posted images from a photoshoot on social media is "My dog would NEVER be able to do that.". People believe that if they have a high-energy, anxious, or shy dog, they won’t be able do a professional photoshoot. My response is always, "That's okay, they don't need to be perfect". My dog isn't perfect either so I can relate. She used to be afraid of the camera and would run away when I would bring out the camera equipment. As a professional pet photographer, I used my know-how to help her overcome that fear and now she loves to pose for me.
Just like with my dog, it's totally normal for your dog to be nervous and uncertain in new surroundings, with a person they don't know and strange equipment all around them. Other behaviors commonly seen in the studio are overstimulation and excitement. Some dogs just can't focus because they're so excited by the new experience. Even well-trained dogs can have trouble listening and responding to commands in a new environment and in new situations. As a professional pet photographer, I will be able to identify when these behaviors are happening and am able to work through any issues to ensure a great photoshoot.
Ways I address your concerns are:
PLANNING CONSULTATION:
Before your photoshoot, we'll have a planning consultation at the studio, here in Des Moines, Washington, with you and your furry friend. We'll design a photoshoot customized to your pet and their personality. This also gives your pet a chance to experience the studio before their shoot and start the process of getting comfortable with the environment. We'll also go over any diet restrictions, allergies or physical limitations, tips for preparing for the shoot, and you’ll be able to see samples of the artwork available for purchase.
DESENSITIZATION:
Before we take any photos, we'll spend time letting your pet explore the studio and check out all the equipment. We'll fire the flashes and trigger the camera a bunch of times and every time we do, we'll reward your pup with a treat or their favorite toy. This will desensitize them to the flashing lights and the sounds from the equipment and they learn to associate them with something good.
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT
We only use positive reinforcement, usually in the form of treats, to keep your pup focused and engaged and to get the poses we want. Some dogs aren't as food driven but respond well to noises. For them, I'm really good at making silly noises that will get the perfect head tilt. We won't ever force a pup to doing something they aren't comfortable doing. We want them to have fun and enjoy the experience!
You may wonder what if treats and silly noises aren't enough to get your dog to focus or pose? Some pups just have too much energy or a desire to explore that is stronger than their desire for treats. In these cases, using a leash will help them to stay grounded and focused and can easily be removed from the final image. I recommend taking high-energy or anxious dogs for a walk before their photoshoot to burn off excess energy. Some pups lose focus because they get overstimulated during the photoshoot. When that happens, taking a break to soothe and calm the dog is usually just the ticket
When working with pets, patience is key, no matter how well-behaved they are. That's why I only schedule one photoshoot per day. We can take as long as needed to get your pet to feel comfortable and happy so they perform their best. Using a professional pet photographer who can read the cues your dogs is giving off and adjust accordingly will make the experience an enjoyable one for both you and your pup, and you'll get gorgeous photos of your fur baby! Still afraid your pup might have "too much personality" for a professional photoshoot? I get it, my dog Tyler had a "big personality" and a "mind of his own" but I was still able to get gorgeous photos of him that are hanging in the studio.
Ready to book a session or still not sure if your furry friend would do well in a professional photoshoot? Either way, go ahead and book a free planning consultation and let’s chat about how we can design a photo session that will work for your pet’s personality.