One of my favorite things about being a pet photographer is that no two sessions are ever the same. Pets have the most unpredictable, hilarious personalities and honestly, that’s what makes their photos so special. Sure, I go into every shoot with a plan, but the truth is, the pets are the real directors! They always surprise me, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Here are 10 funny things pets do during photoshoots (and why I absolutely love them)
The Big Yawn
Just when I’ve got the perfect pose lined up....stretch, yawn! Pets love to throw in a dramatic yawn right in the middle of a shot. It’s almost like they’re saying, “Are we done yet?” The best part? Those huge, silly yawns often turn into some of the cutest, most personality-packed photos.
The Sudden Zoomies
We’ll be mid-pose, everything calm…and then, boom! Your pup gets the zoomies. I love capturing the blur of paws, floppy ears flying, and pure joy written all over their face.
Cat Side-Eye
Cats are professionals at the “too cool for this” look. That sideways glare, the flick of a tail. It always cracks me up. And honestly? It makes for some of the funniest, most relatable portraits.
Treat Obsession
The second they hear the crinkle of a treat bag, it’s game over. Suddenly, all focus is on me (or the snacks). Wide eyes, perked ears, tongues out. It’s comedy and cuteness rolled into one.
Photobombing Siblings
If there’s more than one pet in the session, you can bet someone’s going to photobomb. I’ll have one pet perfectly posed, and then here comes their brother or sister diving right into the frame.
The Tongue Out Moment
Some dogs just can’t keep their tongues in their mouths. Whether it’s a tiny blep or a full-on goofy grin, those tongue-out photos always end up being client favorites.
Random Rolls in the Grass
Sometimes a dog decides the best time to roll dramatically in the grass is…mid-photoshoot. It messes up their fur, sure. But it also makes for the most joyful, candid shots.
Sudden Fascination With Sticks
Forget toys, forget treats...sometimes a stick on the ground is way more interesting. Pets will proudly show off their “treasures,” and honestly, it just adds personality to their gallery.
The Surprise Kiss Attack
Just when I’m focusing the camera, some pets decide it’s time to leap up and give their owner a big sloppy kiss. Those unplanned moments of pure love are the heart of what I do.
Why I Love It
The truth is, these funny little quirks are what make pet photoshoots so special. The unpredictable, unscripted moments often end up being the ones that families treasure the most. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about perfect poses, it’s about capturing the real, silly, joyful personality of your best friend. And trust me, those moments are always worth remembering.
