What to Bring to Your Pet Photoshoot.

What to Bring to Your Pet Photoshoot (And What to Leave at Home)

Getting ready for your pet’s photoshoot doesn’t need to feel overwhelming.
At The Leash’s Studio, sessions are relaxed, pet-led, and designed to feel more like a fun hangout than a formal appointment. A few simple things can help your pet feel comfortable and confident, and the rest? You can leave behind.

Here’s everything you need to know before your session.

What to Bring

1. Your Pet’s Favourite Treats

Bring treats your pet really loves. Small, soft treats work best, they’re easy to eat quickly and help keep attention without interrupting the flow of the shoot.

If your pet has dietary needs or allergies, bring something safe and familiar.

2. A Familiar Toy (Optional)

A favourite toy can help shy pets feel at ease or bring out playful personalities. Not every pet will be interested, and that’s totally fine. We’ll only use it if it adds to the moment.

3. A Collar or Harness You Love

If your pet normally wears a collar or harness, bring one you’re happy to see in photos. Simple designs photograph beautifully, but if your pet is known for something colourful or quirky, that can be part of their story too.

4. Water and Any Essentials

If your pet needs medication, wipes, or a comfort item, feel free to bring it along. The goal is a calm, supportive environment where your pet feels safe being themselves.

What to Leave at Home

1. Expectations of “Perfect” Behaviour

Your pet doesn’t need to sit still, smile, or follow commands. Some of the most beautiful images come from natural moments in between, soft looks, head tilts, or bursts of energy.

2. Brand-New Accessories

New collars, outfits, or harnesses can feel uncomfortable or distracting. Familiar items help your pet feel confident and settled during the session.

3. Noisy or Overstimulating Toys

Squeakers and loud toys can sometimes overstimulate pets or break focus. Simple, familiar items usually work best.

4. Stress (We’ve Got This)

You don’t need to manage the shoot or worry about how your pet is doing, that’s my job. I’ll guide the session, follow your pet’s pace, and work with whatever energy they bring on the day.

A Final Thought

Every pet is different, and that’s exactly what makes these sessions special. Whether your pet is shy, excitable, senior, or a little chaotic, they are more than welcome here.

If you’re ever unsure about what to bring or how to prepare, just reach out. I’m always happy to help.

Let’s create something meaningful, playful, and full of heart.