Sometimes when clients contact me they are adamant that they only want pictures of their pets and they themselves don’t want to be included. However, I always encourage clients to hop in at least a couple of images with their pets. Trust me: when they are gone you’ll be glad you did. If you are ready to hop into some images or are at least open to the idea, continue reading for suggestions on what to wear to a pet photoshoot.

The most important thing when choosing what to wear to your pet photoshoot: COMFORT!

I always argue that the most important thing to consider when dressing for your pet’s photo session is that you wear something you will be comfortable in. Unless you are doing a styled shoot that involves a particular “look,” making sure that you are comfortable is vitally important. For one, you need to handle your pet so clothing that allows you to do that is helpful. Additionally, if you are comfortable in what you are wearing, you’ll be more likely to be comfortable in front of the camera. That comfort will show in your images.

Consider colors and patterns when choosing what to wear to your pet’s photoshoot

If you are planning on getting images printed and put on your walls in your home, consider your decor when choosing the colors of the clothes that you wear to your session. Choosing colors that will complement your decor means that your images will fit easier when you decide to display them.

If there are going to be multiple people in the session, choose coordinating outfits as opposed to matching outfits. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. If the look you are going for is matching (think Christmas jammies or a deliberately retro vibe) then embrace it. But my guess is that if you’re here, you are interested in a more classic style. In that case, colors that are in the same color family (for example, all jewel tones, all pastels, all autumnal colors, etc.) will work best.

As for patterns, I always encourage clients to avoid any clothing with text on it. It will be difficult to make sure it lies correctly and may end up being cut off in the images. Additionally, small dizzying patterns often do not photograph well. Larger patterns are completely fine.

If photographing outdoors, dress for the weather

Make sure that your choice of outfit is appropriate for the weather if you are doing an outdoor session. Nothing will make you more uncomfortable than being too hot or too cold. And if you’re not comfortable your images will show that. If the weather is cold but you really want to wear something that is better fit for warmer temps, you can always wear a coat and take it off just when your photographer is ready to grab your images.

Bring a change of clothes to your pet’s photoshoot

My last bit of advice: bring a change of clothes to the session. For one, your photographer will be able to provide feedback on items that will work best. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to have a change of clothes when working with animals. It’s often difficult to predict when you’ll be covered with peanut butter or end up muddy. And unless that’s part of the theme for your session, you’ll likely want to change into something clean.

Do you have any other questions about what to wear for your session? Add them below! And check out other FAQs on my blog and main page.