Family members are always there for emotional support and some TLC when you need it—and that’s exactly what your pets do for you. They bond with their humans much like they do with their mothers!

 In all sense of the word, pets are family. And why wouldn’t you choose to include your special loved one in your annual family portrait? Here are some things to keep in mind for pictures that are just right!

A Comfy Space

Plan on having your portrait session at a place your pet is familiar with. If you go for a venue that your dog, cat, hamster, or rabbit hasn’t seen before, you are likely putting your hard-earned money to waste. Animals are comfortable in environments they have seen and been in before. This is why you should either have the photos taken at your home or in a park that your pet visits often. If they can own the space, they will definitely come off as more photogenic.

Camera Confident

Some pets are used to you taking cute pictures of them in costumes and sunglasses for your Instagram feed. If your pet knows the camera already, the family portrait is likely to turn out great. But if your pet is camera-shy, you might need to take extra steps to ensure their comfort. Try seating them in your lap or close to the person they have a bond with. This will help calm feelings of tension and confusion.

Canine or Feline

Not all animals are created equal, just as the pigs from Animal Farm would say. Things change depending on whether you have a good-natured pup or a grumpy cat (not to say felines aren’t adorable little fluffballs).

Individual personalities aside, dogs can usually be caught in a relaxed mood right after they have been given a treat. They are less excited and more likely to stay put. Cats, on the other hand, are active during early morning hours as they are corpuscular animals. Scheduling your family portrait photography session at this time may bring better results.

Ask Your Photographer

A family portrait photographer who has previously dealt with photos with pets is a great asset. Their experience in the field will let them direct you in this task. The end result will be flawless, not to mention goofy, photographs that show all of you in your elements!

These pictures will last a lifetime and serve as reminders of your beautiful memories together. That’s why you can’t compromise on quality. Contact Doug Burke Photography at 336.486.9932 if you’re in or around the Greensboro area; we will know just what to do!