🐾 5 Ways to Make Your Pet Photography Session a Success! 🐾

So, you’ve booked a pet photography session—exciting! 🎉 But now you might be wondering, "How do I make sure my pet behaves? What if they don’t sit still? What if they act like a total goofball?" (Spoiler: Goofy pets make the best photos!)

Don't worry—I've got you covered! Here are five simple ways to set yourself and your pet up for an amazing photoshoot experience.

1️⃣ Let Your Pet Be… Well, a Pet! 🐕

Let’s be real—pets don’t always follow directions. And that’s okay! Some of the best photos happen when your pet is just being their adorable, quirky self. Whether they’re tilting their head in confusion, zooming around like a maniac, or giving me their best "I'm too cool for this" look, I’ll capture it all.

So, if your pup refuses to sit or your cat has better things to do, don’t stress! We’ll work with their personality—not against it.

2️⃣ Bring Their Favourite Treats & Toys 🍖

Imagine someone asked you to sit still and smile for an hour—with no snacks. Unthinkable, right? Pets feel the same way!

Bringing high-value treats (think cheese, chicken, or their absolute favourite biscuit) is a great way to keep their attention. If your pet is more into toys, pack their favourite squeaky, ball, or even a scruffy old teddy—whatever gets their tail wagging!

I also have a stash of treats and fun noises to grab their attention, but having familiar favourites always helps.

3️⃣ Exercise First, Not Exhaustion! 🚴‍♀️

A little pre-session playtime is a great idea! A quick walk or play session can help burn off excess energy, so your pet isn’t bouncing off the walls when we start. But don’t overdo it—if they’re completely wiped out, we might just get a lot of "sleepy dog flops on the ground" shots (adorable, but not exactly action-packed!).

For high-energy pets, a short run or some fetch before the session works wonders.

4️⃣ Keep Calm & Carry On (Your Pet Will Pick Up on Your Energy!) 😌

Pets are experts at reading our emotions. If you’re stressed, they’ll pick up on it. If you’re relaxed and having fun, they’ll feel at ease too.

So, take a deep breath, enjoy the experience, and trust the process. Even if your pet is a little chaotic (or a LOT chaotic), I’ve worked with every type—shy, hyper, stubborn, and everything in between.

My goal? To capture their personality beautifully, no matter what.

5️⃣ Dress the Part (And Think About Colours!) 👗

If you’re joining your pet in the photos, think about what colours will complement them. If your dog is dark-furred, lighter colours will help them stand out. If your cat is orange, earthy tones might make them pop.

And while coordinating with your pet is adorable, avoid super-busy patterns that might distract from the star of the show (your pet, obviously!).

Oh, and one last tip—pet hair happens. If your pup is a shedder, bring a lint roller!

Final Thoughts: Have Fun With It! 🎉

At the end of the day, pet photography is about capturing your pet’s unique personality and your bond with them. So whether your dog/cat sits perfectly or spends the whole session trying to lick my camera, we’ll create photos you’ll cherish forever.

Ready to book a session? Let’s do this! 📸🐾

👉 [Book Your Pet’s Photoshoot Today!]

How to Prepare Your Pet for a Professional Photoshoot

A professional pet photoshoot is a great way to capture the unique personality and charm of your furry friend. Whether it’s for a framed print, a social media post, or a treasured keepsake, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring stunning images. Here’s how to get your pet ready for their big moment in front of the camera.

1. Choose the Right Photographer

Not all photographers are experienced in working with animals, so selecting a professional pet photographer is crucial. Look for someone who specialises in pet photography, understands animal behaviour, and has a portfolio that showcases their ability to capture pets at their best.

2. Plan for the Perfect Setting

Decide whether you want an indoor studio session or an outdoor shoot. If your pet feels more comfortable in a specific location—like your backyard or a favourite park—let the photographer know. Natural light and familiar surroundings can help your pet feel relaxed and at ease.

3. Grooming and Hygiene

A well-groomed pet looks best on camera. Depending on your pet’s breed and coat type:

• Brush their fur to remove tangles and excess hair.

• Trim nails to prevent scratching or discomfort.

• Clean their eyes and ears to avoid any distracting marks in the photos.

• Consider a bath if your pet needs one a few days before the shoot, so they look fresh but not overly fluffy.

4. Exercise Before the Shoot

A pet that’s full of energy can be difficult to photograph. Take your dog for a walk or engage in some playtime before the session. This will help burn off excess energy and make them more likely to sit still and focus during the shoot.

5. Bring Their Favourite Treats and Toys

A great way to capture your pet’s attention is with their favourite treats or a beloved toy. Treats can be used as positive reinforcement, while toys can help bring out their playful personality. If your pet is food-motivated, ensure you have small, easy-to-chew treats that won’t make a mess.

6. Dress for Success (If Your Pet is Comfortable!)

Some pets are happy to wear accessories like bow ties, bandanas, or themed outfits. If your pet enjoys dressing up, bring a few options. However, if they’re not comfortable in clothing, it’s best to keep it simple to avoid unnecessary stress.

7. Stay Calm and Patient

Your pet will pick up on your energy, so try to remain calm and patient during the shoot. If they need breaks, allow them time to relax. A good pet photographer will work at your pet’s pace and capture spontaneous moments that showcase their true personality.

8. Communicate with Your Photographer

Let your photographer know about any special tricks, favourite poses, or behaviours your pet has. If your pet is nervous or reactive to certain sounds or movements, giving the photographer a heads-up will help them adjust their approach accordingly.

9. Be Flexible and Have Fun!

Pets are unpredictable, and that’s part of their charm! Some of the best shots come from unexpected moments, so embrace the experience and have fun. Trust your photographer to capture beautiful and authentic images of your pet.

Final Thoughts

A professional pet photoshoot is a fantastic way to celebrate the special bond you share with your furry companion. By following these simple preparation tips, you’ll help ensure a smooth and enjoyable session, resulting in photos that you’ll cherish forever.

Are you ready to book a pet photoshoot? Contact Unleashed Pet Photography today and let’s create lasting memories of your beloved pet! 🐾

Why You Should Get a Professional Pet Portrait

Our pets are more than just animals—they are beloved members of our family. They bring us joy, companionship, and unconditional love every single day. A professional pet portrait is a beautiful way to celebrate your furry friend and create a lasting memory that you can cherish forever. Here’s why investing in a professional pet portrait is a decision you won’t regret.

1. Capture Their Unique Personality

Every pet has a distinct personality, whether it’s a dog’s playful energy, a cat’s quiet curiosity, or a rabbit’s gentle charm. A professional pet photographer knows how to bring out and capture these unique traits, creating images that truly reflect who your pet is.

2. High-Quality Artwork for Your Home

Unlike quick smartphone snapshots, professional pet portraits are high-resolution, well-composed, and beautifully edited. Printed on archival-quality materials, these portraits become stunning pieces of art that can be proudly displayed in your home, bringing warmth and personality to any space.

3. A Timeless Keepsake

Pets don’t stay with us forever, but a professional portrait ensures their memory lasts a lifetime. Whether your pet is still young and full of energy or enjoying their golden years, a beautifully captured portrait preserves those precious moments for you to look back on.

4. Celebrate the Bond You Share

The connection between a pet and their owner is incredibly special. A professional pet portrait doesn’t just capture your pet—it captures the deep bond you share with them. Whether it’s a solo pet portrait or a session that includes you, these images become treasured reminders of the love and companionship you’ve built over the years.

5. Perfect for Gifts and Special Occasions

A pet portrait makes a thoughtful and meaningful gift for fellow pet lovers. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or as a memorial tribute, a professional photo of a cherished pet is a heartfelt way to show someone you care.

6. Stress-Free, Fun Experience

A professional pet photographer understands animal behaviour and knows how to create a relaxed and enjoyable environment for your pet. With patience and expertise, they ensure that even the most camera-shy pets feel comfortable, resulting in natural and heartwarming images.

7. Support Local Artists and Small Businesses

By booking a pet portrait session, you’re also supporting local photographers and small businesses dedicated to capturing the beauty of animals. Your investment helps keep the art of pet photography alive and thriving.

Book Your Pet Portrait Session Today!

Your pet is a cherished part of your life, and their story deserves to be told beautifully. At Unleashed Pet Photography, we specialise in capturing the unique essence of every pet, creating stunning portraits that you’ll treasure forever.

🐾 Contact us today to book your session and create a timeless memory of your beloved pet! 🐾

The Shedding Struggle: Grooming Tips & Best Products for Your Furry Friend

If you have a pet that sheds, you know the drill—fur on your clothes, fur on your furniture, fur in places you didn’t even know fur could reach! While we love our fluffy companions, managing all that shedding can feel like a full-time job. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips and product recommendations to help keep your home (and your sanity) fur-free—well, as much as possible!

Why Do Pets Shed So Much?

Before we dive into solutions, let’s talk about why shedding happens. Most pets shed to get rid of old, damaged fur and regulate body temperature. Seasonal shedding is common, especially in spring and autumn when pets adjust to changing weather. Some breeds, like PUGS!, Huskies and Labradors, are notorious shedders, while others, like Poodles, barely shed at all. Health factors like diet, stress, and skin conditions can also play a role in excessive shedding.

Brushing: Your First Line of Defense

Regular brushing is the easiest way to manage shedding before it takes over your home. It helps remove loose fur, reduces matting, and keeps your pet’s coat healthy. The key is choosing the right brush for your pet’s coat type:

• Short-haired dogs & cats → Rubber curry brush or bristle brush (great for breeds like Beagles and Dalmatians)

• Medium-haired dogs & cats → Slicker brush or deshedding tool (ideal for breeds like Pugs, Golden Retrievers and Maine Coons)

• Long-haired dogs & cats → Undercoat rake or wide-tooth comb (perfect for Huskies and Persians)

Product recommendation: The FURminator Deshedding Tool or the King komb have been game-changers for heavy shedders. The get deep into the undercoat without damaging the top layer of fur. I have both of these. (no affiliations - these are the ones I use and can recommend)

Bathing: Less Fur, More Freshness

A good bath can loosen up shedding fur and keep dander at bay. But don’t overdo it—bathing too often can strip natural oils and cause dryness, leading to even more shedding! Aim for once a month or as needed. Use a pet-friendly, moisturizing shampoo to keep their coat healthy. I prefer a natural one, without harsh ingredients.

Diet & Supplements: Healthy Inside, Healthy Outside

Your pet’s diet plays a huge role in the health of their coat. Foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can improve skin hydration and reduce excessive shedding.

• Look for pet food with salmon, flaxseed, or fish oil.

• Add a fish oil supplement to their diet for an extra boost.

• Ensure they’re getting enough water—hydration helps prevent dry, flaky skin.

Keeping Your Home (Relatively) Fur-Free

No matter how much you groom, some fur will still make its way around the house. Here are a few tricks to keep things under control:

• Lint rollers → Your best friend for last-minute fur removal before heading out.

• Vacuum with a pet hair attachment → A high-suction vacuum like the Dyson Animal works wonders (I even vacuum my PUG Leroy as he loves it).

• Robot Vacuum → programmed to run twice a day, works for me.

• Wash pet bedding regularly → Keeps fur buildup to a minimum.

• Furniture covers → Easy to remove and wash when the shedding gets out of hand (we use throws).

Final Thoughts

Shedding is just part of having a furry best friend, but with the right grooming routine and products, you can keep it manageable. Plus, those extra cuddles make up for a little extra vacuuming, right?

What’s your go-to grooming tool for shedding season? Share your favourites in the comments!