Things Dog Parents Need to Know Before Booking a Dog Photography Session | Richmond Pet Photography

Have you been following along for a while, scrolling past those wall-worthy portraits, maybe picturing your own dog there someday? But something’s holding you back.

Maybe you’ve worked with other photographers before and have a few preconceived notions. Or maybe you’re just not quite sure what a session with me actually looks like.

You’re not alone. That’s why I put together this list of what really happens behind the scenes. . . so you can stop wondering and start getting excited about creating something beautiful with your dog.

Quinn and his mom playing at the Canal Walk in Richmond, Virginia

Here’s what you should know about what a dog photography session with Kristen Murray Photography actually looks like (spoiler: it’s way more relaxed, fun, and dog-centered than you probably think).

1. It’s not about stiff poses. It’s about storytelling.

When you book a Richmond dog photography session with me, you’re not signing up for a “sit-stay-smile” kind of day. I don’t pose dogs (or people) like statues, nor expect them to perform highly-trained tricks like they’re Cirque du Soleil stars. (Even if Quinn the Airedale has the leaping down pat! 😉)

Instead, I follow their lead, capturing natural expressions, unfiltered joy, and the in-between moments that make your dog your dog. Whether that’s sprinting through the field nose to the wind, or a quiet moment beside you, it’s all part of their story.

2. You don’t have to be in the photos (but you absolutely will want to be).

Stunning dog-only photos? Sure can do. . . but one of the my favorite things I photograph is the bond you have with your dog. If you’re camera-shy, no problem. The focus is always on your dog. I love including small, connection-driven moments with you. (Think hands on fur, a shared laugh, a muddy pawprint on your jeans.) No awkward posing, no forced smiles. Just real life, beautifully photographed.

Honestly, this is a hill that I will (lovingly) die on; I just think it’s so important to have photos of your dog with you. You are a huge part of their story and deserve to have photos together. The photos I had done of Kona and I are some of my most cherished portraits, even more so than the ones I took of her on her own.

And here’s the best part, you only purchase the images that you absolutely cannot live without. If you end up not liking any of the photos you’re in, then no one ever needs to see them again.

And in case you need more reasons why you need to be in your photos and the type of creative poses we can do if you’re camera-shy, check out this other blog post from a few years ago.

Bradley & his mom, hanging out at the Barras Market in Glasgow, Scotland

Ellie and her parents in Richmond, Virginia

3. Your dog doesn’t have to be perfectly trained.

Some of my favorite images come from dogs who don’t know “sit” or “stay” to save their life. I’m used to working with high-energy pups, rescues, dogs who think the world is one giant playground, and bird dogs who seem to only have “one look” outside. (You know, the was-that-tiny-flicker-of-movement-in-the-distance-a-bird-a-squirrel-or-something-else-I-must-go-investigate? look.)

A good dog photographer knows how to capture personality, not obedience. The only thing your dog has to be is themselves. No matter how wild and crazy, silly, stoic, or aloof that may be.

4. Most dogs are on leash the entire time (and yes, it disappears in post-production).

Safety always comes first. That’s why the majority of the dogs I photograph are on leash during their outdoor dog photography sessions. (The only time I’m comfortable with a dog off-leash is during an upland hunt photography session or we’re in a secure area.)

But you’ll rarely see it in the final images. I edit the leash out of every portrait so your dog looks free and confident, while staying safe in real life.

(That said, if it makes more sense for the story for your pup to stay on leash, then we leave it in. Basically, my rule is, if it makes sense and the photo looks natural without it, the leash comes out. If not, the leash stays in.)

Rollo the French Brittany, being silly, mid-photo session, Bozeman, Montana

Ruckus walking with his dad at the The Helix: Home of The Kelpies, Falkirk, Scotland

Every one of these 7 Dalmatians remained on leash for this shot. Goochland, Virginia

5. We choose photography locations where your dog will be comfortable.

Not every dog thrives in every setting, and that’s okay. From quiet trails around town to open fields and riverside spots to your own backyard, we’ll pick a location that matches your dog’s comfort level and energy.

The right environment helps your dog relax, which means genuine, joyful portraits you’ll love hanging on your walls.

6. We don’t have to hike 10 miles to get amazing photos.

Adventures look different for every dog (and owner). For some, it’s hiking through the Blue Ridge Mountains to a waterfall; for others, it’s a gentle walk at Belle Isle in Richmond.

Wherever your dog feels happiest, that’s where we’ll go. Your dog photo session should feel effortless. . . more like spending time together outdoors than posing for a camera.

Poppy and her mom, spending time together in the James River, Richmond, Virginia

7. Sessions are dog-led. Always.

Every dog portrait session moves at your dog’s pace.

If they need time to sniff, explore, or just shake off excitement, we’ll pause. If they’re ready to play fetch and go full speed ahead, I’ll be right there with my camera.

When your dog is relaxed and having fun, that’s when the magic happens. During our Signature Sessions, you’ll never feel rushed or catch me constantly looking at the time. We work until we get all the shots we need and have planned for, until we run out of light, or until your pup tells me, “okay, thank you, I’m exhausted, time to go home now.”

8. You don’t need to bring props or accessories—just yourselves.

We don’t need fancy collars, flower crowns, or props (unless they’re part of your story). The focus is on authentic connection and personality. While themed photos have their charm, my approach leans toward images that feel organic and timeless; portraits that hold emotion and never go out of style.

So bring your dog, their favorite toy or treats, and an open heart. That’s it.

The final images will feel effortless and timeless. . . wall art you can proudly display year-round, season after season.

Bandanas make the perfect accessory

So do favorite, meaningful toys

9. You’ll get all the prep info before your session.

Once you book your dog photography session, you won’t be left wondering what comes next. I don’t do first meetings at the session. . . this isn’t a “show up and shoot at the park” kind of experience.

We’ll schedule a detailed planning call that covers everything you could possibly need to know, from wardrobe and styling to choosing the perfect location for your dog. We’ll deep-dive into your relationship with your dog and map out all the meaningful details like logistics and timing, and how to prep both you and your pup for the best possible experience.

During that call, we’ll also talk about your home décor and plan the artwork we’re creating together. The goal? To make sure your portraits feel intentional and cohesive with your space, not just beautiful on their own.

You’ll walk away feeling confident and prepared, knowing exactly what to expect. I’ll guide you through every “what if,” so when session day arrives, you can relax and simply enjoy the adventure with your dog.

10. My goal is to capture your dog’s personality, not perfection.

Perfection is boring. Personality is everything.

Whether your pup is goofy, serious, shy, or wild, I want to capture the essence of who they are, because that’s exactly what you’ll miss most someday. Every bark, stretch, and sideways glance tells part of their story, and that’s what makes your images feel alive.

You don’t need a perfectly trained pup or a flawless sit-stay. You just need a dog who’s loved and a willingness to let them be themselves.

Because the truth is, the best portraits aren’t about perfect poses. They’re about the moments that make your dog them. When you look back on these images years from now, I want you to feel their warmth, their joy, and the unspoken story of your life together.

Milo the hound, leaping for joy in Richmond, Virginia

11. We’ve got to stay a bit flexible

Welcome to Virginia, where we get all 4 seasons in one week! As the majority of our dog photo sessions are outdoors, we are always at the mercy of the weather. I plan every session with light and location in mind, but sometimes nature has other ideas.

I actually love shooting in cooler weather . . it’s when dogs are happiest, the colors are richer, and the light has that soft, moody glow. And let’s talk about overcast days; they’re one of the best-kept secrets in dog photography. Cloud cover acts like a giant natural softbox, creating even, flattering light that brings out texture and detail in every coat color. It’s also easier on your dog’s eyes, keeps them cool, and lets us shoot longer without harsh shadows or squinting.

I’m even happy to shoot in a light drizzle, especially for upland or adventure-style sessions. A touch of mist can add so much atmosphere and texture which feels raw, real, and true to the field.

But when temps start creeping past 90°, that’s where I draw the line. Unless we’re in the water (pool, river, lake), I’ll reschedule for a cooler day. Your dog’s safety and comfort always come first.

The good news? We build that flexibility into the planning process. Whether it’s shifting to catch the best light or waiting out a summer storm, your session will happen at the right time, when it feels good, looks beautiful, and lets your dog be fully themselves.

Because again, this isn’t about forcing perfection; it’s about creating art that captures your dog’s spirit, whatever the season decides to throw at us.

At the heart of it all, your dog photography session with me isn’t just about photos.

It’s about creating space to slow down, connect, and celebrate the bond you share. Every part of the process, from planning to printing, is designed to feel thoughtful, personal, and true to your story.

Because these aren’t just images for Instagram and iPhone wallpaper. They’re memories meant to live on your walls and in your hands, to bring warmth to your home, and to remind you every single day why this bond matters so much.

Ready to create something meaningful together?

Let’s start with a free, no-obligation consultation where we’ll talk through your session vision, your dog’s personality, and what you’d love to create for your home.