Whether you're preparing for a professional pet photography session or simply looking to strengthen the bond with your furry friend, practicing a few basic commands can make a world of difference. While capturing candid moments is my goal, having a few essential commands under your belt can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet. In this blog post, we'll explore five fundamental commands – Sit, Down, Stay, Loose Leash Walking, and Recall (come.)

Number One: Sit

I'm sure everyone knows this command, even if your dog doesn't. Once we move into posed shots, you'll want your dog to be a master at this command. Not only is it actually relaxing for dogs to be placed in a "sit" but it is the perfect base to a wide variety of photos.

Even in a sit, we can see what a sweet, happy pup Valkyrie is. Just look at that smile!

Number Two: Down

The down command instructs your dog to lie down on their stomach. Similar to sit, the down command promotes calm behavior and is particularly useful for keeping your dog in a relaxed pose during a photo session. There are limitless posing opportunities with this command.

The down command can be paired with fun locations and natural props like this mossy rock for a unique image.

Number Three: Stay

The stay command asks your dog to remain in a specific position until given a signal to move. Stay is crucial for capturing those perfect shots without your dog wandering off. It helps maintain the composition of the photo and prevents distractions, allowing you to focus on creating beautiful images. Don't worry though; with a little post processing magic, I can still get amazing shots like the one below even if your dog hasn't yet mastered stay.

Stay was crucial in obtaining this shot of my dog Cordelia. Since I am the owner, there was nobody to hold a leash!

Number Four: Loose Leash Walking

Loose leash walking is a skill that teaches your dog to walk calmly by your side without pulling on the leash. When photographing pets outdoors, having your dog walk on a loose leash prevents unwanted tugging and ensures a natural, relaxed posture. This command is valuable for capturing both candid moments and posed shots during outdoor sessions.

While I often remove leashes in post processing, sometimes it just makes sense to keep them in!

Number Five: Recall (Come)

Recall, or the "come" command, instructs your dog to come to you when called. Recall is essential for maintaining control and ensuring your dog's safety during a photography session. While I generally have clients keep their dog's leashes on during sessions, this command is an extra safety precaution. Whether you need your dog to reposition for a shot or come back to you in an open environment, a reliable recall is a must-have command.

Recall, paired with treats and/or toys make fun shots like these more attainable with less post processing, which means faster delivery of final images to you!

There are tons of resources online on how to teach these commands. One great article I found explains all five of these basic commands: 5 Basic Cues. While the goal of pet photography is to capture the authentic bond between you and your furry companion, incorporating these five basic commands can significantly enhance the overall experience. Not only do they contribute to a smoother session, but they also reinforce positive behavior and strengthen the connection between you and your pet. So, why not make these commands a fun part of your routine? After all, a well-behaved dog makes for the best photo partner!

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5 Basic Commands to Practice Before Your Session

Number One: Sit

Number Two: Down

Number Three: Stay

Number Four: Loose Leash Walking

Number Five: Recall (Come)

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