TIPS FOR INVOLVING PETS IN NEWBORN PHOTOS | SPOKANE, WA NEWBORN PHOTOGRAPHER

Dog people, cat people, our pets are our first babies. They’re a part of the family, so it’s no question that we want to involve them in our family and newborn photos from time to time. Here are my best tips for involving your pets in your photos, specifically with your new baby.

Introduce your pets to your baby well before picture day. I recommend introducing your pet to your new baby many times before picture day. This will allow you to judge if your new pet is comfortable around the baby. It will allow you to see and judge your pets behavior and if they will tolerate pictures well. Bringing home a new baby is an adjustment for everyone and not every pet is thrilled when a new baby comes home right away (my dog certainly took some time to warm up to my daughter). Some pets get hyper, some want to run away, some don’t like crying, you’ll just never know until you see them together. Don’t save this for picture day, because that may be too much pressure on your furry friend.

Have a safe space for your pet to retreat. Photoshoots can be a lot of pressure on a pet, be sure they have a safe, quiet space or outdoor space to retreat to if photos become too much excitement for them.

Keep their involvement minimal and at the end of the photoshoot. Most pets don’t want to hang around for an hour and a half, so let your photographer know of your plans to involve them and bring them into the photo space at the end. This also prevents too much pet hair from getting on clothes and being in your pictures.

Have an extra set of hands around. Sometimes it can be helpful to have an extra set of hands, like a friend or grandparent to hang out with your pet during the photoshoot. Someone that can bring them in when it’s time for photos and take them out when they need a break.

Allow your pet to meet your photographer upon arrival, so they are comfortable. It’s really important for your pet to get comfortable with your photographer. Photography equipment can be new and stimulating for them, so give them a moment to get acquainted with the camera and the photographer. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable during the photoshoot. If your pet gets nervous around new people, consider having them sit out of the photos if it’s just too much for them.

Have some small, clean treats near by to bribe the pet. There’s not much to elaborate on this, but treats can help get your pet to sit where you want them to and look where you want them to. If your pet is overly food motivated and gets too excited for treats, forego this tip.