If you’re reading this post, you’re considering a dog engagement photos and you may or may not be be a crazy pet parent like me. Don’t worry – I’m not judging you. I’m over here cheering you on because YES, YOU SHOULD 100% BRING YOUR DOG TO YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION! 😍

If you’ve tried to snap photos of your dog on your phone, you know they don’t sit still for long and you’re lucky if you get one good shot. I understand you may be feeling a little nervous about how your photographer is going to do with you pup, but not to fear! If you’ve read my wedding advice column, you know I don’t really do anything without a plan.

Peep some advice (and some adorable inspiration photos) below on how to absolutely kill your dog engagement photos.

1. Split up your session.

Now, before we dive into getting photos of your dog – we need to get YOU comfortable in front of the camera first. Plan to do your formal outfit first and allow me to get you nice and relaxed in front of the camera. THEN we will add your dog to your more casual outfit. BONUS: Your dog will have gotten some of their energy out before it’s show time.

2. Enlist a friend.

Now in order to spilt up your session (per the above), you’ll need the help of a friend or family member to babysit your dog until it’s time for fluff. 🙂 All they really need to do is go for a walk with the dog and keep them from getting dirty. Perfect task for a maid of honor or best man. They’ll be excited to help – just promise them a margarita afterwards!

3. Prepare to be patient.

Dogs can sometimes be nervous AND excited, especially when they’re 1) in a new place 2) meeting a stranger 3) looking at a stranger with a big black box in front of their face with a distracting shutter. If you want photos with your pup, you’ll want to be patient. It can take 10-15 minutes to get a good shot, but as long as you’re a good sport we will get what you’re looking for!

4. Bring treats.

And I don’t mean training treats, I mean THE GOOD STUFF. For my corgi, that means one thing – turkey breast. For you dog, it may be hot dogs, cheese – or something else. Bring an irresistible treat that I can hold over my camera to get your dog’s attention – don’t worry, I’ll reward them for doing such a good job!

5. Act natural.

If I’ve learned anything it’s that dogs don’t really do what we want them to do all the time. HOWEVER, it’s helpful if you act natural and do thing you’d usually do with your dog. I’ll capture all the cute candid that happen afterwards!

6. Don’t forget the accessories.

Now, I’ll be the first to admit my dog’s lease and harness is not super glam. If you feel the same way, you may want to purchase something a little more camera ready for your leash, collar, etc. I have really been loving the Wild One line!

7. Roll with the punches.

Don’t put a ton of pressure on yourself to get the *picture perfect* dog photos – you’ve hired a professional and I promise I will capture you three just how you are and give you dog engagement photos you truly love. Try not to sweat the small stuff or worrying how everything will go down. Just have fun!