Bend, Oregon Family Photography With Your Favorite Four-Legged Friend!
Including your dog in your family photoshoot is a wonderful way to capture the love and joy they bring to your lives. As someone who absolutely loves animals and recently lost our beloved family dog, I know firsthand how special it is to have those precious memories captured forever. There’s something truly heartwarming about including your furry friend in your photos—they really are part of the family. To make sure the experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, here are some tips for your family photoshoot in Bend, Oregon, with your dog.
Preparing Your Dog: Training Tips for a Smooth Photoshoot
Before the photoshoot, take some time to get your dog accustomed to the process. Practice basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” in different environments to build their confidence. If your dog responds well to treats or a specific toy, bring some along to keep them motivated during the session. The more familiar your dog is with following commands, the easier and more enjoyable the photoshoot will be.
PRO TIP: put dog treats in a plastic baggie (or bring a spare toy) for me to use too.
THE BEST ADVICE ON INCLUDING YOUR DOG IN A FAMILY PHOTO SHOOT: Exercise tHEM JUST BEFORE WE MEET
I've photographed countless dogs and I can say, without a doubt, this is the golden rule: exercise them before we meet. Making sure to give your dog a good workout before the photoshoot will result in many more amazing memories being captured. A tired dog is a calm dog, which makes it much easier to keep them still and focused during the session. Take them for a long walk or run, play fetch, or engage in their favorite activity to help burn off excess energy. This simple step can make a huge difference in ensuring a smoother and more relaxed experience for everyone involved.
Choosing Dog-Friendly Locations
Central Oregon is home to many beautiful, dog-friendly locations perfect for a family photoshoot. Consider spots like Dillon Falls, Soda Creek Campground, or the Deschutes River Trail, which offer stunning backdrops and plenty of space for your dog to explore. Always check the rules of the location to ensure that dogs are allowed, and be sure to follow any leash laws or other regulations. I always love helping out with location ideas and recommendations. Let's connect and find the perfect place for your family.
Bring a Helping Hand
It can be incredibly helpful to bring along a family member or close friend who can look after your dog during the shoot. This way, when it’s time to focus on family portraits without the dog, your helper can keep your dog comfortable and occupied. Having someone you trust on hand ensures that the dog is well taken care of and allows you to concentrate on getting the perfect shots with the rest of your family.
Fewer Final Images MY BE DELIVERED
Including your dog in the photoshoot is a fun and meaningful choice, but it typically means that fewer photographs will be taken overall. There will be times during the session where we'll have to get your dog positioned and engaged, which can reduce the time available for capturing other family moments. It’s important to keep this in mind when planning your session, so you can set the right expectations.
Capturing the Dynamic Between Dogs and Family Members
One of the best parts of including your dog in a family photoshoot is capturing the special bond between them and your family. Encourage natural interactions—like playing fetch, giving belly rubs, or cuddling—so that I can capture the real, genuine moments. These candid shots often become the most treasured family photos.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Photography With Pets
Q: How MUCH TIME SHOULD A typical family photo session THAT INCLUDES OUR DOG last?
A: I always recommend doubling the time you originally were thinking about. If a 30 minute session sounds great for your family, we should plan on 60 minutes with a dog. Think of including a dog like adding in 3 more children... they're easily distracted and love to run around. :)
Q: What if my dog is nervous around new people?
A: I am comfortable photographing all dogs, BUT if your dog tends to be anxious around strangers (or new places), it might be better to leave them at home. This can reduce stress for both your dog and your family, leading to a more relaxed and enjoyable photoshoot.
Q: Could a dog disrupt the flow of a photoshoot?
A: Dogs can sometimes be unpredictable, which might cause delays or require extra time to get the perfect shot. If you’re on a tight schedule, it might be more practical to have a dog-free session.
Q: Will our photos be less special without our dog?
A: Not at all! Your photos will still capture the love and connection between family members. If you have a specific vision for your photos that doesn’t involve your dog, you can focus on creating the perfect family portraits without any added concerns.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to include your dog in your family photoshoot in Bend, Oregon, ensuring a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved!