How To Take Holiday Pet Photos Like a Pro

So you want to include your pets in your holiday photos—after all, they are an essential part of your family! Easier said than done, right? Lucky for you, we’ve got the perfect guide to convincing your pets to sit pretty for a photoshoot. Try these tips to capture the best holiday pet photos.

• A camera or iPhone
• Dog treats and/or cat treats
• Festive attire (for you and your pet)
• A tripod (optional)
• A Bluetooth remote (optional)
• Ring light (optional)
• A pet toy phone accessory, like the Pooch Selfie attachment (optional)

Pro Tip: If you don’t have a tripod, you can easily DIY your own setup by propping your smartphone against a wall or another sturdy surface.

Find a photogenic spot that comfortably fits your family. Popular spots include:

• Beside the fireplace
• On the couch
• Next to the Christmas tree
• In your backyard

You’ll want to make sure your location has good lighting, too. Pets don’t like flashes, so avoid using one for your photo.

If you’re inside, open all the windows to let in plenty of light and then face the windows. Posing with your back against a window can create a silhouette effect that casts you and your pet in harsh shadows.

If you’re outside, find a spot with some shade so the sun’s not in anyone’s eyes.

Your style options are endless: If you’re going for chic Christmas photos with your dog, get everyone dressed to the nines and put your pet in an adorable bow tie. On the other hand, you can always go for an “ugly holiday sweater” vibe.

But remember: Dressing up might not be as fun for your pet as it is for you. If your dog or cat isn’t accustomed to wearing clothing, practice with them in advance. But if your pet shows signs of stress, don’t push it. Instead, opt for a festive collar or bandana, or simply let your pet’s personality shine all on its own.

Arranging multiple family members for your photo? Use the “V” method. Line everyone up with the tallest people on the ends and shortest in the middle, so that the tops of your heads make a V shape.

For cats and small dog breeds, you may want a family member to pose holding them. That’ll prevent them from wandering off.

Pro Tip: Decide on your arrangement before you bring in your pets, and make the setup process as quick as possible. You’ll likely have about 5 to 10 minutes before your pet gets too bored or overwhelmed to participate.

For many pet parents, the biggest challenge of taking Christmas pictures with dogs or cats is getting them to look at the camera. Luckily, there are a few different tactics to try.

1. Ask a friend to take your photo. If your pet already knows and likes this person, even better—they’re more likely to look up when your friend calls their name.
2. You can also give your photographer one of your pet’s favorite toys to hold near the lens. Once your pet locks eyes on that toy, it’ll appear that they’re looking directly at the camera.
3. A dog selfie stick smartphone attachment can also help grab their attention. The Pooch Selfie attachment, for example, looks like a tennis ball toy—and it even squeaks when you squeeze it.

Pro Tip: A tired cat or dog is more likely to stay chill and still for photos, so make sure to work a long walk, game of fetch, or feather wand session into your schedule for the day.

One of the biggest hurdles of photo-taking with pets is getting them to sit still. Practicing your dog’s sit and stay skills in advance can help. When it’s time to take the photo, give your dog the command, snap the photo, then reward them with a treat.

Hey, what about us cat parents? Your cat might not sit on command, but you can still use treats to encourage them to chill on your lap or in your arms.

Turn on some festive Christmas music to set the mood, tell some jokes to generate real laughter among the humans, and plan for something fun to do afterward as a nice reward, like walk outside or some extra playtime. Remember to take breaks when your pet shows signs of stress, like panting, vocalizing or acting standoffish. The real joy and togetherness you create in the moment will translate beautifully to your photo.

Now it’s time to share your photo on social media or, if you’re going old-school, create some printed pet holiday cards.

For extra holiday cheer, add a festive, pet-themed pun! Some of our favorites:

• We Woof You a Merry Christmas / We Wish You a Meowy Christmas
• Meowy & Bright
• Pup on the Housetop
• Deck the Paws
• The Furriest Noel
• Barkin’ Around the Christmas Tree
• Happy Paw-lidays!
• Jingle Paws

Want to do more with your holiday pics? There are so many ways to turn your photos into lasting mementos, including:

• Display your photo inside a pet-themed frame.
• Add the photo to a mug, so you can enjoy your coffee with a side of memories each morning.
• Put your pic on a snuggly blanket to warm your body and soul all winter long.
• Turn your photo into a piece of canvas wall art and admire your expert photography skills throughout the year.

Whatever you choose to do with your holiday pet photos, make sure to share them with us on social media at @Chewy. Happy holidays!