I’ve just wrapped up my Pet Christmas photo session at a local pet store in Toronto.

I thought I’d share some observations and comments on the challenges a photographer may face when doing these Christmas photos inside a pet store; some of my favourite moments; how to use props and outfits; and creative ideas on how to turn these captured moments into lasting memories.

Challenges I often encounter

Pet photographers encounter unique challenges when working with their furry clients inside a pet store and within the very limited amount of time we have to work with your pet.

• One of the most obvious challenges is the extremely distracting environment with many people and other dogs and cats coming and going.  A photographer needs to have many tricks to attract your pet’s attention!

You can help by giving yourself plenty of time to walk around the store with your dog to acclimatize him or her to the situation and work off some of the excitement before we take the photos.

• Some pets may lack proper training, making even basic commands like "sit" a challenge. Of course, capturing images of dogs in a standing position can still result in amazing photos, but not when the dog is in constant motion!

I recommend that pet owners invest a little time in training their dogs prior to the session.

• Many dogs are simply camera shy and it takes a lot of work to get them to look at the camera. Since we have very little time to work with the dog in that situation it can be a challenge.

However,  I must say that my love for animals, accompanied by a little patience and creativity, plays a crucial role in overcoming these hurdles.

Some of my favourite moments

There are some really heartwarming experiences that make pet Christmas sessions special for me as the photographer.

• The love between pet owner and their furry friend is always wonderful to witness!

• The spontaneous moments of mischief can be quite amusing.  Picture a dog running happily around the store, totally dodging any attempts to be caught by his owner.  This definitely brought a smile to my face!

• The very timid and shy dogs always tug at my heartstrings and if I can get one decent photo for their owners then that’s my goal achieved!

• Crazy cats who simply cannot understand what on earth is happening!

  
  
  

Decked Out in Style

The array of Christmas outfits available for dogs during these sessions are wonderful.  I had dogs arriving in the most beautiful cozy sweaters, the obligatory Santa hats,  adorable reindeer antlers and even a grinch costume. So much fun!

Here are some photos of dogs rocking these outfits that may  inspire pet owners with stylish ideas for next year’s Christmas photo session.

Now What? Turning Photos into Memories

Now that the pet Christmas session is complete, how can pet owners turn these cherished photos into enduring memories.

• Consider a beautifully framed print of you and your pet as a gift for your parents. What parent wouldn’t  love a photo of their kids with their dog?

• Turn your photos into a Christmas tree ornament which will be a wonderful memory for all the Christmases to come.

• While it may be a little late for this year, you can always use your favourite photo for next year’s Christmas card.

• Use your photos for cute gifts like holiday themed mugs.

• Design an e-card to share your pet's festive spirit with all your friends, family and even acquaintances.

• And of course in this digital age I am quite certain that these photos will make fun social media posts!

And so, as the curtains close on another season of pet Christmas sessions, always remember the joy and memories captured by photographers. Remember that whether framed on the wall or shared with the world, these photos are not just snapshots; they're treasured memories that will warm hearts for years to come

Embrace the festive spirit whether you choose to visit a pet store for a professional session or create your own memorable moments at home. After all, 'tis the season to celebrate the love and companionship our furry friends bring into our lives!

Here are some tips on getting better photos with Santa

And one other suggestion! Why not consider your own Christmas or winter themed full photo session next year! You’ll get so many amazing photos without the challenges encountered in a pet store.