After eagerly awaiting the results of our family photo shoot last week, we’ve received the photos and I can’t tell you how much I love them! I finally had time to amass a collection of some of my fave shots and am happy to share them with you! We worked with Jayme Anne Lang of Jayme Anne Photography and we couldn’t be more thrilled with her work. I was adamant that I didn’t want to go with a "dog photographer" because I wanted these to have the same feel and style as any other family photos, just with four legged members in tow! I can’t believe how well Jayme was able to capture the bond we have with our little monsters in these photos, especially the one of Roxy and I! This one is definitely my absolute favourite and will be framed and displayed proudly in our living room.

In addition to taking incredible photos that we’ll treasure forever, Jayme was kind enough to offer up some expert tips on how to have the most successful pet-inclusive photo shoot. Here are some helpful hints from a pro: 

Don’t stress. This is a tough one as I can attest from my personal experience. You’re trying so hard to get your pet to pay attention, face the camera, strike the perfect pose…but it’s probably not going to happen. Just relax, have fun and accept that you’re going to love the photos because you love your pet.

Avoid flash. This will always cause red eye in pets and the noise and brightness can be scary, too!

Work in the right light. Obviously, day time is best. A sunny or slightly overcast day will provide you with tons of natural light without being too bright. First thing in the morning is good since the sun most likely won’t be out in full force. Late afternoon works great, too, just avoid the bright mid-day sun.

Make it interesting. Your dog doesn’t always have to be perfectly centered in your frame of view, mix it up and get some pics that are really close up with others from farther away. Try focusing on their noses (if your dog has a big snout it will create a nice depth in the photo). Finding it difficult to get Max to go where you need him to go? Instead of repositioning him, move yourself so he appears in your frame exactly where you want him to be.

Get down on their level. Take shots from all different angles; from above looking down, below looking up, don’t be afraid to get down on the ground to snap shots from their level.

Choose the right background. If your dog is black, avoid dark backgrounds. If your dog is white, place them against a dark or colourful backsplash. I always like bright green, grassy backgrounds since it contrasts nicely with Cash’s red and Roxy’s dark brindle markings. Blue skies also make for beautiful photo backdrops as well.

Pick the right spot. The dog park seems like an obvious choice, but this can actually be tricky since there are so many potential distractions at hand! Other dogs, other people, games of fetch, tussles and rough ups…we learned from experience that this might not be the best place to try and pose for pics. Perhaps consider a regular park or an open field. Better yet, utilize your space at home and snap your photos in the front or back yard, this way you can remove any distractions and don’t have to worry about other dogs or people.

Catch a candid moment. A prized photo doesn’t have to be a premeditated one. If Fido’s lounging adorably in the sun by a window, snap a pic and the sun should provide enough natural light to avoid using the flash. Want to catch your pet mid-play? Take as many subsequent photos as your camera will allow and you’ll surely snap some great ones!

Be prepared. Make sure to have plenty of treats on hand to distract, bribe and reward compliance. Be sure to bring water to keep everyone hydrated (yourself included) and some of your pup’s favourite toys to keep them busy or to get their attention for a perfect pose. And don’t forget poop bags! Like any trip to the park, you should also have a doggie first aid kit handy since any outdoor adventure comes with the risk of injury. Poor Roxy got a prickle stuck in her paw which pretty much ruined the experience for her, but she’s tough so she forged on regardless.

Just keep in mind that this should be a fun bonding experience for all and that the photos don’t have to be perfect, just sincere. After all, you’re going to love them either way!

To see more from our shoot, or to book one of your own, visit www.jaymeannephotography.com.