One of the most common concerns I hear from pet parents before a photo session is about leashes. Many worry that their dog won’t sit still, doesn’t have a reliable stay, or won’t listen well enough to be off-leash. Others fear that having a leash in the photos will make them look unnatural or distracting. If you’ve had the same concern, I’m here to reassure you—most of my sessions involve dogs on leash, and I promise, your final images will be just as stunning!
Why Are Most Dogs on Leash During Sessions?
There are a few key reasons why leashes are a normal part of my pet photography sessions:
Safety First – Keeping dogs on leash ensures they stay safe, especially in outdoor locations with distractions like wildlife, other dogs, or busy roads.
Location Rules – Most of the beautiful locations I use for photo sessions require dogs to be on a leash. Parks, trails, and nature areas often have strict leash policies to protect both wildlife and visitors.
Peace of Mind – Not every dog has a reliable recall, and that’s completely okay! A leash allows your dog to move naturally while still giving you peace of mind that they won’t wander off or get into trouble.
The Magic of Leash Removal in Editing
You might be wondering, “But won’t the leash ruin the photos?” The good news is that I can edit leashes out in post-processing if we position the leash just right! Below are some before-and-after images so you can see just how seamless the final results look. The leash gives us control during the session, but it disappears in the final images, leaving only beautiful, natural portraits of your pup.
Off-Leash Locations for a Fun Twist
While most sessions involve a leash, there are options for capturing your dog off-leash safely and legally! If you’re interested in letting your dog run free for part of the session, consider:
Scenic Dog Parks – Some local dog parks feature stunning natural backdrops, perfect for capturing action shots and candid moments of your pup in motion.
SniffSpots – These private, rentable spaces provide a secure environment where your dog can explore and play off-leash without distractions.
Your Backyard – While this isn't always an option, this can be a familiar and comfortable space for your dog, making it a great option for relaxed, off-leash portraits.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) – For dogs with a solid recall, WMAs offer vast natural landscapes to explore off-leash, as long as seasonal regulations set by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are followed.
If your dog is reliable off-leash and you’d love to incorporate some of these locations into your session, we can absolutely plan for it!
Your Dog’s Personality Shines—Leash or No Leash
Whether your dog is on leash or off, the most important part of a session is capturing their unique personality and the bond you share. Their joy, curiosity, and love will shine through in every image, and with a little editing magic, you’ll never even know a leash was there!
Have questions or want to book a session? Let’s chat and plan the perfect adventure for you and your pup!
Commentaires