Unless your dog is an Instagram influencer, chances are they’re hesitant to pose for a photo. This is especially true if you’ve dressed them up in a Halloween costume. If this is your situation, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to walk you through a step-by-step tutorial on how to pose your dog for the perfect Howl-o-ween photo.
What you’ll need:
- Your dog
- Costume options
- Treats
- Decorations
- Camera
Before you even try to get your dog in a costume, set everything up.
In our experience, it’s not uncommon for dogs to try and squirm their way out of costumes. Make it easier on yourself by preparing your scene first and getting your dog into costume only moments before you want to take the photo.
*Hint: It may be helpful to take your dog on a nice, long walk before you do all of this. If they can exert some energy before your shoot, they will likely be less resistant when you dress them up.
When you’re setting up your scene, take the theme of the costume into consideration. If you’re a Photoshop wiz, this might entail some post-shoot editing. For the rest of us, some simple props can add tremendously to the ambiance of your photo. If your dog is dressing up as a vampire, maybe include some potion bottles and cobwebs in the background. If your dog is going to be Snow White, perhaps pose them in front of a tree. Think of it like this– Star Wars wouldn’t have been nearly as successful if they had shot it at a skate park. Location, location, location!
Lighting it right
For those of us who don’t have LED selfie rings or professional lighting kits, the best light for photography is natural light. If you have a big window in your home, it could be helpful to set up shop in front of that. If you have a cool salt lamp or black light that would better set the tone of the photo, use it! The more creative you are, the better.
Use treats generously
If ever there were a time to break out your dog’s favorite treats, this is it. Your pup’s gaze will more than likely follow the treat– use it to incentivize them to stay still as well as guide their eye line to either “find the light” or to get their best angle.
Getting your dog into costume
Approach your dog with a calm demeanor. If they feel you are excited, they’ll reciprocate that energy and make it impossible to get them into costume. Your dog won’t really understand what’s going on, so be relaxed and confident when dressing them. Remember: patience is a virtue.
Don’t forget to enter our Howl-o-ween costume contest!
Did you know that we host a doggy costume contest every year? Find out how to participate in Howl-o-Ween here!
Need more tips? Check out our guide to dog photography here.
After you capture the picture perfect moment, we hope you get enjoy a safe and stress-free Halloween with your pup! Keep in mind there are certain things you shouldn’t do with your dog on Halloween. Read all about them here.