Pet Photography Do’s and Don’ts

Pets are family, and they deserve a place in your portraits, too. Whether your companion is furry, feathered, or scaled, professional pet photography is a fun and meaningful way to capture the personality and connection that make your pet so special.

At JCPenney Portraits, our professional photographers work with all kinds of pets—not just dogs and cats. From bunnies and birds to turtles, snakes, lizards, and ducks, we welcome pets of all shapes and sizes into our studios. With professional lighting, comfortable studio environments, and experienced photographers, we make it easy to create portraits you’ll treasure for years to come.

To help your session go smoothly, here are a few simple do’s and don’ts to keep in mind before picture day.

Do’s of Pet Photography

• Do bring your pet’s favorite toy. Familiar items can help pets feel more relaxed in a new environment. A favorite blanket, toy, or small prop can also add personality to your portraits and make the images feel even more meaningful.
• Do bring treats. Treats are one of the best ways to grab attention and reward good behavior during a session. Small, easy-to-eat treats work best because they allow photographers to quickly capture expressions, head tilts, and alert reactions.
• Do keep grooming simple. A little preparation goes a long way before a pet portrait session. Brush your pet’s fur, wipe away tear stains if needed, and clean collars or accessories before arriving. If your pet is professionally groomed, try scheduling grooming a day or two before your session so their coat has time to settle naturally.
• Do plan for comfort. A quick potty break, short walk, or little playtime before your session can help pets feel calmer and more relaxed in the studio. Well-rested pets also tend to photograph better than overly excited or tired ones. For reptiles, birds, or smaller animals, transporting them safely and allowing a few minutes to acclimate to the studio can make a big difference.
• Do include the whole family. Some of the most meaningful portraits include the people who love the pet most. Family interaction shots often create natural, emotional images that become favorite keepsakes. Cuddles, laughter, and candid moments can sometimes be even more memorable than perfectly posed photos.
• Do trust your photographer. Professional pet photographers understand lighting, timing, posing, and animal behavior. At JCPenney Portraits, our photographers know how to work patiently with pets of different personalities and energy levels to capture the best possible images. Whether your pet is energetic, shy, curious, or constantly moving, we’ll guide the session in a way that keeps everyone comfortable and relaxed.

Don’ts of Pet Photography

• Don’t force outfits. While sweaters, hats, and costumes can look adorable, they’re not always comfortable for every pet. If your pet isn’t used to wearing clothing or accessories, picture day is not the best time to experiment. Simple accessories like a bow tie, bandana, or collar are often enough to add personality without causing stress.
• Don’t worry about pet types. Many people assume professional pet photography is only for dogs and cats, but that’s far from true. JCPenney Portraits welcomes a wide variety of pets, including rabbits, birds, turtles, snakes, lizards, guinea pigs, ducks, and more. If you have questions about your specific pet, simply contact your local studio before scheduling your session.
• Don’t stress about perfect poses. Pets are unpredictable, and that’s part of what makes pet portraits so special. Some of the best images happen in candid moments—a curious head tilt, a playful jump, or a quiet cuddle with their favorite human. Professional photographers know how to work with movement and natural behavior to create authentic portraits.
• Don’t skip safety. Safety always comes first during pet photography sessions. Avoid bringing props or accessories that could easily break, tip over, or make your pet uncomfortable. For exotic pets or smaller animals, your photographer may suggest specific setups designed to keep them safe and secure throughout the session.
• Don’t forget to have fun. Pets don’t need to sit perfectly still for a successful portrait session. Some of the most memorable photos come from playful interactions, funny expressions, and unexpected moments. Relax, enjoy the experience, and let your pet’s personality shine naturally.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pet Photography: Final Thoughts

Our pets become part of our stories and our families. Professional pet portraits help preserve those memories and celebrate the connection you share with your companion—whether they bark, chirp, hop, slither, or quack.

With a little preparation and the help of experienced photographers, your pet photography session can be fun, relaxed, and full of meaningful moments. Book your pet photography session with JCPenney Portraits today and create portraits you’ll love for years to come.