Some of the most joyful, unfiltered moments I’ve ever photographed happened when a couple brought their pup along for their Philadelphia engagement session. If you want to include your four-legged third wheel in this milestone moment, this guide covers everything you need to know — from the practical logistics to the stuff couples always forget until we’re already in the park. Below are my seven steps for including your dog in your engagement session!
Tips for a Seamless Engagement Session With Your Dog
The secret to a smooth shoot with a dog is less about training and more about preparation. Your dog doesn’t need to be perfectly obedient — they just need to be set up for a good time. Here’s how we do it.
Full disclosure: I live with three cats. Ruby, Remy, and Radar have strong opinions about this blog. But I stand by every word.
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Don’t Forget Water and Treats
A well-behaved pup is a well-fed, well-watered, and properly motivated one. Pack a variety of treats and more than you think you’ll need! Between the new smells, the strangers, and the general sensory overload of being outside in a busy area, your dog is going to need a well timed bribe to look anywhere near the camera.
Bring a collapsible water bowl too, especially in the warmer months. A thirsty, overheated dog is a distracted dog, and no amount of editing fixes squinting.
Pro tip: don’t feed them a huge meal right before. Treats work best when they actually want them!
Bring Their Favorite Toy or Chew
One thing worth packing alongside the treats: a favorite toy or comfort item — whatever reliably sets your dog at ease when the world gets overwhelming. A familiar squeaky toy, a well-loved rope, a specific blanket.
We’ll get the shot, just don’t judge me for the weird noises I pull out to get your pup’s attention.
Make Sure Your Dog Is Bathed and Groomed
Of course, all furbabies are welcome as they are, but they also deserve a little sprucing before their close up! Clear out any eye gunk, give them a good scrub down, and brush through those luscious locks.
For doodles or dogs with longer coats, a professional grooming appointment a day or two before the session is absolutely worth it. You want them looking fresh, not freshly-rolled-in-something.
A clean, well-brushed dog photographs beautifully and is much easier to manage when they’re not a matted, muddy situation. The best Philadelphia dog groomers book up quickly, so plan ahead.
Consider a Fun Collar or Bandana
Upgrading from the everyday, tooth-marked leash-and-collar situation to something that actually coordinates with your outfits makes a real difference in photos. It doesn’t need to be matchy-matchy — just something that doesn’t visually clash or pull focus.
A fun bandana, dapper bow tie, or even a classic leather collar works great. Sites like Etsy are a goldmine for custom, handmade options if you want something that feels intentional. We love a mini wardrobe moment for the most photogenic member of your family!
Bring a Lint Roller
If your dog sheds, this one is non-negotiable. Pack it in your bag, keep it accessible, and use it liberally. The last thing you want is to look back at your favorite shot and notice your LBD looks like a fur coat.
A few extra sheets tucked into a pocket is also smart for mid-photo touch-ups. Dogs are enthusiastic. Jumping happens. Being prepared means you can just laugh it off and move on instead of spending ten minutes stress-picking pet hair off each other.
Bring a Handler or Friend
This is the most important logistical tip on this entire list. Bring another human.
Here’s the reality: your pup can’t be attached to you for every frame. I always like to start with doggy pictures so they can go and play or their babysitter can take them back to your house.
A trusted friend, a family member, or a hired pet handler all work great. Attention spans don’t always work in our favor, and having someone your dog actually listens to nearby makes the whole experience smoother for everyone!
And if you’ve always dreamed of having your kitty in photos, we can always do an in home session (please)!
Have Fun With Your Pup!
Your dog is your best friend. That’s going to come through in the photos with zero effort on your part, and that’s exactly the point! Let go, have fun, and don’t worry about the inevitable chaos. Some of the best shots are the unposed and totally candid moments that we can’t manufacture.
Like the ones where the dog breaks free or licks someone’s face at the exact wrong (right) moment. Lucky the Pizza Dog didn’t become the internet’s favorite golden retriever by sitting perfectly still. Embrace it.
Planning An Engagement Session With Your Dog
Some of the best shots are completely unposed. The chaos is the content. Lean into it, laugh at it, and trust that the unpredictability is what makes those photos feel alive.
Want to see it in action? Check out some of my Philadelphia engagement session galleries to get a feel for how I approach candid, natural moments — with or without a very enthusiastic golden retriever in the frame.
Lindsey Ford is a Pennsylvania and Delaware wedding photographer capturing engagement photos and weddings all over the East Coast, including Wilmington, DE, and is ready to document your special moments artfully. If you’re ready to book engagement photos with your furry friends, inquire here!
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