Including Your Dog in Your Engagement Session in New Hampshire

“Can we bring our dog with us to our engagement session?” This is one of the most common questions I receive and I always respond with a quick “OF COURSE!” We are lovers of all the pups over here! I love dogs and I have always had them in my life. Engagement photos with dogs are always better when your furry friend joins in on the fun.

As we plan for your shoot, here are my 8 tips for including your dog in your engagement session below!

1. BRING A FAMILY MEMBER, FRIEND, OR DOG SITTER.

Many dogs get very excited when they are in a new place and want to explore everything that is happening around them. Bringing someone with you to hold the leash when we aren’t taking photos with your dog takes a little bit of stress off of you. We could tie them to something but this isn’t always an option. They also might not be too happy if they are stuck on the sideline without you. The person with you can walk your dog and attend to any of its other needs.

The best part about bringing someone with you? You will get to focus on each other and your dog will have a blast walking around in between photos.

2. BRING TREATS OR A TOY.

Seeing a treat or hearing a squeak from their favorite toy can get their attention when I need it, and reward them for doing a good job. These small incentives can be enough to ground your dog in a new environment. I recommend bringing your own because you’ll know they’ll enjoy their treat.

3. CONSIDER GETTING A SIMPLE COLLAR OR LEASH.

Bringing a streamlined collar is better because we can focus on you and your dog and not be distracted by a colorful or large collar/harness. Of course, safety always comes first so if you feel your dog needs a harness I recommend using one. You may be able to find one that matches your outfits or has a more simple design.

4. TIRE YOUR PUP OUT BEFORE THE SESSION.

Taking your dog on a walk can bring their energy level down before the session. It can make them easier to manage for photos and leaves you both feeling less stressed out. Even coming early to the session can get your dog used to the location.

5. CONFIRM DOGS ARE ALLOWED AT YOUR LOCATION.

This is important because we want to make sure that your furry friend is allowed where we are going to take photos. The great thing about engagement photos in New Hampshire is there are lots of great locations that are dog friendly like hiking trails and parks. One of my favorite locations for engagement sessions is Franconia Notch State Park. There are a vast amount of hiking trails and scenic stops that are all dog friendly and beautiful for photos. You can see a recent proposal I photographed in Franconia Notch here!

6. LET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER KNOW AHEAD OF TIME.

Dogs are always 100% welcome at my sessions, but letting me know allows us to make sure the location we’re going to is okay with dogs. We don’t want to have any surprises on the day of your session.

7. ADD CUTE ACCESSORIES.

They make all kinds of adorable accessories for dogs including, for example, bandanas, greenery leashes, and even flower crowns. I know many amazing florists and I would be happy to refer you to one!

8. HAVE FUN AND LET GO OF ANY EXPECTATIONS!

Dogs are our best companions and are full of energy. We can’t expect them to behave perfectly throughout the photo session so it is important to have patience with our dogs. Sometimes the silly photos are some of the best shots at the session. Try not to stress about the “perfect shot.” One of my favorite parts is photographing your dog’s personality, so try not to stress too much.

To learn more about your engagement experience, click here!

If you’re looking for your engagement photos + want my expertise to help plan your perfect day I would love to join your adventure together. Each and every one of my wedding couples receives well-thought-out planning and documentation of their day. If you are looking for a wedding photographer that will help you find the location that feels right for both of you, give you advice on vendors and wedding planning, and take away all the stress of photographing your wedding day. To contact me about your wedding day, click here!