Cairns Pet Photography
what to expect in your pet photography session
Hey there, pet parents!
Let’s face it – getting that ideal photo of your four-legged pal can sometimes feel like chasing your tail. Whether it’s the struggle to get them to strike the perfect pose, their camera shyness, or simply wanting to capture their authentic personality, we understand the challenges you face. But fear not! We’re excited to welcome you to our pet photography studio, where we’ve cracked the code on capturing those special moments in a laid-back and enjoyable setting. Say goodbye to the photo woes and hello to creating cherished memories together! 📸🐾
When you arrive
We’ll start by letting your pup explore and feel at home. Whether it’s sniffing around, playing a bit, or just settling in—and yes, camera noises are part of the fun—we don’t pick up a camera until you and your pup are relaxed and comfortable.
Candid Moments & Sweet Snuggles
It’s all about capturing your dog’s personality—cute quirks, playful antics, and cover-it-all portraits with you. More than just portraits, we focus on the connection between you and your pup—the way you look at them, the way they respond to you—so that when you look back on these photos in 10 years, you’ll remember exactly how it felt in this moment.
What to Bring (keep it simple)
- A regular collar and a thin leash (which we can easily Photoshop out later if needed)
- Any accessories you think might add character—bandana, bow, or favourite toy, a bed they love (this is great for senior dogs)
- Toilet bags and grooming tools if your pup tends to shed—helps keep things neat during the shoot
Getting Ready Before You Arrive
Make sure your pup has been for a bathroom break before the session—that helps avoid any surprises during the shoot.
Energy Level Tips
- High-energy dog? Give them a little run-around before arriving—it can help them stay focused.
- Laid-back pup? Let them take a power nap—rested dogs are more playful when the camera’s ready.
The Best Kind of Session
No need for perfect poses or pressure. It’s all about having fun, being yourselves, and letting your dog’s true nature shine. Most importantly, it’s about capturing the connection you share—because those are the portraits you’ll treasure when you look back in years to come.
What You Should Wear
Clothing choices can make a huge difference in how your portraits feel. Here are a few tips to help:
- Keep it simple and timeless. Neutrals always look amazing in the studio—think soft greys, creams, beiges, denim, or muted tones. They won’t clash with your pup and keep the focus on the connection between you.
- Coordinate, don’t match. Try to stick to one palette across the family. It’s best to avoid stark contrasts (like mixing black and white together) or busy patterns, which can be distracting.
- Start with the ladies’ outfits. Choose something you feel comfortable and confident in, and then build the rest of the family’s clothing around that choice.
- Avoid logos and neon colours. These can date the portraits or draw the eye away from the expressions and moments we want to highlight.
- Comfort is key. Expect to be sitting on the floor, cuddling with your dog, or being active together. Choose outfits you can move in and feel relaxed wearing—your comfort will show in the portraits.
Extra Pro Tips for a Pawsitively Perfect Session
| Tip | Why It Helps |
| Bring a favourite (not too noisy) toy | Easy to redirect attention if needed. |
| Quiet arrival | Aim for a calm entrance to keep excitement levels steady. |
| Play pause | Taking short breaks helps your dog reset—great for getting more genuine expressions. |
| Keep calm yourself | Dogs pick up on our energy. Relaxed owners = relaxed pups = better photos. |
| Tune into the scene | Adjust for your dog’s mood—let them lead the moment, and we catch the magic. |
| Guidance and Comfort | We’ll guide you throughout the session to help you feel relaxed and at ease. The great thing about a pet session is that with the focus on your dog, it naturally takes away any self-consciousness, letting authentic moments shine. |
Final Thoughts
You’re creating unforgettable memories—and it’s going to be fun, relaxed, and totally pawfect. Let’s celebrate what makes them uniquely yours. When you look back on these portraits in 10 years’ time, you won’t just see how you looked—you’ll remember how it felt.
Cheers to making magic happen!