You Don’t Have to Perform for Photos: Creating Safe, Affirming Sessions for You and Your Dog
☾ ☾ ☾
Many people come into photo sessions carrying quiet pressure – to smile, to pose, to perform. For both people and dogs, that pressure can create tension.
Dog photography offers another option.
Our dogs bring out the most beautiful parts of us. There’s a comfort and familiarity there, too. I’ve found my clients with dogs open up easier at sessions. Things like play, care, and curiosity are always present and these things photograph beautifully. And not only are they beautiful, but they’re telling a story. A story you can’t achieve with a performance or posing.
Some of my favorite images have been of dogs chasing their favorite toy or where they are completely immersed in exploring with their humans.
We’re capturing real connection. Real love. And real life.
Dogs are wonderful examples of there not being pressure to perform. They show up no matter what ready to be unapologetically who they are. I say we need to take a page out of their book.
What Performative Photography Misses
✧ Forced poses
✧ Constant direction
✧ Ignoring a dog’s signals
These approaches often disconnect people from their dogs instead of bringing them closer.
A Safer, Softer Alternative
Dog photography sessions are built around:
✧ Consent
✧ Slowness
✧ Flexibility
Dogs are allowed to move, rest, explore, and regulate. People are allowed to do the same – in fact, I always encourage it.
Who This Matters For
This approach is especially supportive for:
✧ Queer clients
✧ Neurodivergent folks
✧ Anxious dog parents
✧ Dogs who need extra patience
✧
If the idea of not performing for photos feels relieving, a dog-focused photography session may be exactly what you and your dog need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I’m awkward in front of the camera?
I hear this a lot, but rest assured, within the first 10 minutes, you’ll get settled and be ready to enjoy the experience. I guide my clients throughout the entire session, so no one is ever left wondering what to do.
What if my dog doesn’t want to cooperate?
Cooperation isn’t the goal. Connection is. These sessions are a chance to let your dog be a dog and simply enjoy spending time with them. My advice is always to show up with zero expectations and be ready to have fun. Everything falls into place after that.