Understanding Body Language

Studying a dog's body language is crucial for determining when they are stressed or unhappy. Stress symptoms may include yawning, panting, licking lips, or avoiding eye contact. If I observe these indications, I take a break and allow the dog to relax.

Engaging the Owner

Having the owner participate in the session can give the dog a wonderful sense of comfort. I encourage owners to stay close, reassure their pets, and even participate in photos if it makes them feel more confident. A familiar voice and touch can make a significant difference.

Taking breaks

When photographing an anxious dog, it helps to take frequent breaks. I make it a point to pause the session at various points to allow the dog to rest and decompress. Short, enjoyable breaks can help keep them engaged and prevent them from becoming overwhelmed.

Post-processing Care

Even after the session, I put extra effort into post-processing to ensure that the final photographs capture the dog's best qualities. I focus on their emotions and body language in the shots, selecting images in which they appear calm and joyful.