There’s something truly magical about capturing the bond between a dog and their person. It’s what first inspired me to pick up a camera over a decade ago, and today—thousands of wagging tails later—I still find so much joy in it.

Whether you're prepping for your very first professional pet shoot or you're a seasoned dog mum ready for your next album-worthy adventure, this guide will help you set your pup up for success.

These are the same tips I share after booking and again during our planning call—but if you're a fellow A-type like me (guilty!), you might like to read ahead.

Here’s what to consider before our photoshoot day:

*Set your pet photoshoot up for success, so we can capture gorgeous photos for your walls like I did for this family*

Grooming

Most clients book their session at least six weeks in advance, giving plenty of time to sort outfits, hair appointments, and maybe even a fresh set of nails. But don’t forget your dog deserves a bit of pampering too!

At a minimum, they’ll need a good wash and brush—but timing matters.

If you’ve got a Golden Retriever, you already know what happens after bath day... hair everywhere. No matter how much you brush, it just keeps coming, right? They're not alone—many breeds shed more in the days following a bath.

Plan your dog’s grooming a few days before the session and stick to dry brushing after that.

For dogs who get regular trims, ask yourself when you love their look most. Is it the sharp, fresh-cut moment (looking at you, Schnauzer mums!), or do you prefer a more lived-in, "just them" look—like the lovable fluff of a Groodle a week post-groom?

For dogs with long fringes or deep-set eyes—think Westies, Old English Sheepdogs, Maltese, Cocker Spaniels and similar—you’re welcome to keep that delightfully scruffy look, but please make sure the hair around their eyes is trimmed. That way, I’ll be able to clearly capture their expression (and those sweet eyes!) in your portraits.

*Schnauzer’s have awesome eyebrows! Have them trimmed a little before the shoot so you can see their eyes too!*

Meals, Snacks, Treats & Toys

I’ll be using treats during the shoot to reward and keep your dog focused. To make sure they stay interested (without overdoing it), I suggest slightly reducing their meals that day—not enough to leave them hungry (I do need my fingers intact), but just enough that treats are still exciting.

If your dog is particular or has allergies, feel free to bring your own treats. Just keep them sealed or in the car—we’ll only use them if mine aren’t a hit. I like to be the “treat master” during the session to keep your dog’s attention where I need it!

The same goes for favourite toys—especially if your pup is ball-obsessed (Jack Russells, anyone?). Keep special items out of sight unless I request them, so we can maintain focus and avoid overexcitement.

Note: If your dog isn’t treat motivated I’ll use other rewards like play, toys, balls and cuddles. I still like to have high-value treats for them though so if that’s your dog and they have allergies please let me know. I’ll make sure I have the best stuff: cheese, chicken and dried liver - one of them is sure to help!

Dog Beach Photoshoot Mornington Peninsula — *This playful guy LOVES the beach, and he LOVES his sausage toy! We included it at the end of the shoot to ensure he didn’t hyper focus on it too soon!*

Exercise

We want your dog relaxed, but not wiped out. For most dogs, that means a shorter-than-usual walk on the day of the shoot, and arriving about five minutes early so they can sniff around and settle in.

Exceptions:

High-energy dogs (hello, Kelpies!) – Give them their usual walk. I’ll use games to channel that energy into gorgeous photos- or we can centre your photoshoot around their favourite activity (like a hike, or play on the beach)
Young puppies and senior dogs – Skip the walk entirely. They tire quickly, but still benefit from a little sniff-and-settle time before we begin.

You know your dog best, and I’ll adjust the pace and structure of the session to match their energy.

Dog hiking photoshoot in Gippsland — *We incorporated a short hike into this photoshoot since that’s this family’s favourite weekend adventure!*

Medication & Special Needs

Over the years, I’ve worked with many dogs who are anxious, reactive, or managing complex health needs. If your dog takes situational medication for anxiety, please be mindful of when you give it.

Most meds have a window where they cause drowsiness before they begin working more subtly—so we want your pup past the zombie phase, but still within the calming effect period.
If you’re unsure about timing or dosage, please double-check with your vet—and feel free to let me know too, so we can plan accordingly.

*For this guy, cuddles calmed him. But if your dog takes anxiety medication- consider the timing.*

What to Bring

I’ll have treats, squeakers, and my bag of tricks—but here’s what you should bring or have on hand:

A collar and leash
(Most of my “off-leash” shots are actually created with a little Photoshop magic and your dog will likely be on-lead for at least some of the photos. Their collar is essential for that.)
Their usual harness for walking between sets
A small towel (especially for wet or beach shoots)
A towel for your car
Water—for you and them
Their favourite toy or treats (kept out of sight until needed)
Anything that’s meaningful to you

Final Thoughts

A professional dog photoshoot isn’t just about creating beautiful images—it’s about celebrating the love you share with your dog, exactly as they are. With a little planning (and a lot of treats), we’ll make sure your session is fun, relaxed, and truly memorable.

Still have questions or special requests? I’m just a call or email away. I can’t wait to meet you and your furry best friend soon!

Hi, I’m Kirstie

Specialist pet photographer

I basically grew up on horse back, and if I wasn’t in the paddock, then I was most likely teaching our blue heeler new tricks. My love for animals doesn’t stop at my own though, which is why I’ve spent a decade photographing (and cuddling) the adored pets of Australia with their families (both adults and tiny humans!) under Bitsa Bernard Photography.

You may noticed when we meet that I completely ignore your dog- no matter how much I want to cuddle them, it’s important that we let them choose when that time is. This little trick is one of many that I have to ensure that your dog is relaxed, and we can capture the most natural portraits of them for you.

I have recently moved back home after five years living in Europe, and I am so excited to be offering pet photoshoots again!

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