7 Expert-Approved Tips to Capture the Perfect Holiday Photos of Your Beloved Pets

Updated on 12/24/2019 at 6:05 PM

Pexels | Adrianna Calvo

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by having a festive photo shoot with your pet? Because, as you may already know, there may be nothing cuter than dogs dressed in adorable wintertime outfits posed while playing in the snow. However, what may not be so fun is getting your pet to actually sit still for the photo. From getting distracted with what is going on outside to not being able to pose for more than a couple of seconds, it seems that pets can and will do everything you don't want them to do when you are trying to photograph them. To help remedy this, POPSUGAR spoke with Jessica Gore CPDT-KA, Certified Professional Dog Trainer and founder of Competent Pup in Los Angeles, who shares with us some science-backed tips that utilize the universal language of learning to help make your next holiday photoshoot with your pet a piece of cake. Whether you have a dog, a cat, or a different animal friend, these following pointers will help you elevate your pet's holiday card. The hardest thing will be trying to decide what "ugly" holiday sweater to dress them in.

Rewards are Everything

"Remember to always pay your pet for their hard work, that way they will be elated to participate the next time," said Gore. Gore suggested rewarding your pet's great manners and good behavior "on set" by giving them treats, access to adventure, and play time with toys.

Go Where The Light Is

When it comes to lighting your mini photoshoot with your fur baby, Gore suggested to go where the natural light is — outside! "Keep in mind that shooting outside may be a more distracting environment for your pup," said Gore, "However, when possible, natural light can really make pup pop and complement their naturally furry features." Can't get outside? Try setting up by a window!

Screenshot It

Have an impatient, position-shifting pet that you just cannot get a good shot of? Hit record! "For fidgety fur babes, you can always take a video and select screen shots later," advised Gore.

Plan Who to Photograph First

Gore advised that if you are planning on taking a group holiday photo featuring more than one pet, it is important to first make sure everyone can be around each other in that capacity and to also have plenty of treats on-hand. "For set-up, start with the least excitable pet first, reward them for getting into position, and move onto the next," added Gore, "Having an exercised pet who's already had the opportunity to explore the environment and made all necessary intros also really helps."

Teach Some Quick Tricks Beforehand

Teaching your pet a simple trick beforehand, such as sit/stay or down/stay, can work wonders when it comes to achieving that perfect shot. "For a quick trainer hack, hold a treat, favorite toy, or tennis ball above the camera to get your pet's focus at just the right angle," said Gore.

Classical Conditioning for Costumes is Key

Get your pets used to costumes, such as cute dog sweaters and festive bandanas, by introducing clothing items to them well before the photoshoot date. "Classical conditioning should be used to introduce your animal to new outfits," said Gore. "Develop a purely positive association with the prospect of modeling by pairing any new garb with something they truly enjoy — like a meal, treats, chew, or bone!"

When In Doubt, Hire a Professional

If you are really struggling getting those perfect shots and you feel like you need to call in some backup, you can always enlist some professional pet photographers who can offer their expertise. "Hiring a positive pet professional to work with you privately, remotely, or on-location can help create the behaviors you want, including a picture perfect pet," Gore said.