True or false? The most stressful part of getting ready for any event is figuring out what to wear. This goes double for photos, even if it’s a session for your pet. You know they’ll be the star of the show, but now the pressure is really on because you don’t want to be the one to ruin the picture! Want to know what to wear to your pet’s photoshoot? We’ve got you covered!

Even if you aren’t planning on being in the pictures, it can be a little confusing too. Can you get away with bike shorts and flip flops, or is this more of a tennis shoes type of thing? 

Figuring out what to wear to your pet’s photoshoot doesn’t have to keep you awake the night before the photos. There are some easy tips to follow that will make these photos something you’re really excited to show off… like on the walls of your home!

Keep reading to find out what to wear to your pet’s photo shoot… whether you’re in the photos or not!

What To Wear In Photos With Your Dog

If you’ll be in some or all of the photos of your dog, your attire definitely matters. Here are some top tips to make sure you’re well dressed for the occasion.

What’s Your Style?

What makes you feel the most comfortable (but we’re not talkin’ pajamas, okay?) That should be the first thing you think about when choosing what to wear. If you’re an athleisure wear kind of person, then pick a cute athleisure outfit. If you’re the type who likes to dress up, go for it! Do try to keep the photo shoot locations in mind, and pick an outfit that suits your style and the place the photos will be taken.

If you are happy and comfortable, it will make the process fun for you (and fun for your dog), and we’ll be able to get some really great photos. If you pick something that’s not comfortable for you, in fit or style, it will definitely show in the pictures. 

The most important thing? Embrace your personal style and plan your outfit accordingly! 

What Color is Your Pet?

Crazy prints are never the best idea for a photo. They can be a little distracting, especially if there’s more than one person in the photos with your pet. Wearing a black outfit with a black dog isn’t a great idea either. Your dog can blend in if you’re behind them. Go for solid colors or very subtle patterns like a thin stripe. Look for colors that you look and feel good in… that also compliment your pet’s coat.  

Have a reddish or brown dog? Navy blue or green make for a standout photo. White and black animals look stunning next to red and pastels. There’s nothing wrong with going through your closet and seeing which things go best when you hold them against your pet. 

Where Are You Taking The Photos?

This is definitely something you need to keep in mind when planning your outfit. You need to be comfortable with your style, but you should also be wearing the right shoes if you need to hike up a hill or stand in tall grass. This may just mean you need to bring shoes for walking and shoes for pictures… or come up with a new version of the outfit you wanted to wear.

Don’t want to hike up a trail in a sundress and don’t feel like carrying it with you… but love that aesthetic? Swap it out for a flowy tank top and shorts or even a cute athletic dress with shorts built in! 

Your location should also influence your choice of colors. If you will be on the beach, think bright blues and greens, and other bold colors, or even classic white. If you will be deep in the wilderness, moody jewel tones can enhance the mood. In a sun drenched field, pastels look stunning. Earth tones always look good in an outdoor setting as well.

Shoes Are Important Too!

You don’t have to run out and buy new shoes or wear the fanciest pair you own. But you do want to make sure your shoes are clean and scuff-free. There’s a good chance that your feet will be in one or more of the photos, and you don’t want them to stand out for the wrong reasons. If you’ll be doing beach pictures and want to go shoe-free, don’t forget to make sure your toes are picture-worthy. 

A Few More Tips

• You don’t need a full face but just a little makeup will make your face stand out in pictures. A little lip balm and a little mascara can go a long way with the camera.
• If you’re doing a beach shoot, keep in mind that tradewinds are very common. For these shoots, you don’t need to worry about styling your hair.
• Don’t forget some accessories. A statement necklace, some nice earrings, a bracelet, these things can help you look and feel more put together in the photos. 
• For those with long hair, be sure to bring a hair tie in case it’s windy.
• Go easy on yourself! This should be a fun experience. If your shirt isn’t the right shade of navy, or if you wore a black shirt with your black dog, we’ll make it work! The most important part of your pet’s photo shoot is that you end up with pictures with your pet that you love. 

What to Wear If You Won’t Be In The Pictures

Things are a little easier if you aren’t planning to be in the pictures. I suggest wearing something comfortable and easy to move around in. Pet photo sessions can take a lot of work as we’ll need to keep your pet engaged the whole time. You, as their owner, are a vital piece of the puzzle. You’ll help me get to know your pet and understand what’s going to keep them happy and engaged throughout the shoot. And most often, you will need to hold your dog’s leash while I shoot. (Don’t worry, leashes are always edited out of photos later!) Needless to say, it’s a good idea to come prepared to be active and involved in the shoot.

You don’t have to do the whole color matching thing, but it’s a good idea to wear something that you won’t mind being photographed in. Hey, there’s always a chance you may need to step in to soothe your pet. You may also change your mind and decide you’d like to be in at least one shot. It’s a good idea to be somewhat photo ready. A nice t-shirt and jeans is all it takes to be ready to jump in if needed.

Pet photo shoots are all about capturing your pet’s personality and the reasons why you absolutely love them. Clothes certainly play a part in this, but ultimately, if you arrive ready to love on your pet, I know that we’ll capture the most beautiful moments! Have other questions about booking a pet photography session? Check out our FAQ to learn more!