What to Wear for Your Pet Portrait Session
When people book me for a pet portrait session, their first thought is usually about their dog, cat, or other furry friend and not about themselves. But here’s the truth: even if the spotlight is on your pet, I always encourage you to step into the frame for at least a few moments. Whether it’s a cuddle, a kiss, a walk together, or even just a quick glance, those images end up being some of the most meaningful ones in the entire gallery.
Still, one of the most common questions I hear is: “What should I wear?” Don’t worry! It doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a little planning, you can look and feel great while making sure the attention stays right where it belongs: on your best friend.
6 Tips on What to Wear for Your Pet Portrait Session
1. Stick with Soft, Solid Colors
When it comes to clothing for your pet portrait session, less is often more. Soft, solid colors photograph beautifully because they create a timeless look that doesn’t compete with your pet’s features. Neutrals, earth tones, and muted hues tend to be especially flattering in natural light and won’t pull focus away from your pet.
Think soft grays, creamy whites, warm browns, dusty blues, or sage greens. If your pet has darker fur, lighter tones will help you stand out. If your pet is light-colored, earthy shades will balance the frame. The goal is harmony, not distraction.
2. Avoid Bold Logos or Busy Patterns
It’s tempting to grab your favorite graphic tee or that fun patterned dress, BUT let me stop you right there. Bold logos and busy prints can easily overpower an image. When you look back at your photos, you want to see connection and emotion, not a brand name or clashing stripes.
That doesn’t mean your outfit has to be boring. Subtle textures like knits, linen, or denim photograph beautifully and add depth without stealing the show.
3. Dress Comfortably
A pet portrait session isn’t a stiff, studio-style photo shoot. We’ll likely be crouching down, kneeling in the grass, tossing toys, or going for a walk. That means your outfit should let you move freely. Think jeans you can bend in, shoes you don’t mind walking in, and layers that won’t hold you back.
When you’re comfortable, you’re relaxed, and when you’re relaxed, your connection with your pet shines through.
4. Coordinate, Don’t Match
If multiple people are coming to the session, it’s better to coordinate outfits rather than match them exactly. Pick a color palette of two or three tones and let everyone choose their own look within that range. For example, if one person wears a sage green sweater, another might wear a cream top with jeans, and another a soft gray jacket.
This keeps the overall look cohesive without feeling overly staged. Remember, the goal is to highlight your pet, not your matching outfits!
5. Layers Work Wonders
Adding a light jacket, cardigan, or scarf can do more than just keep you warm. Layers create visual interest and add natural movement to your portraits. A flowing cardigan or scarf can add a sense of softness and motion, while a textured jacket can give depth to the images. Plus, layers give you easy options for variety without a full outfit change.
6. Above All: Wear What You Love
The most important rule for a pet portrait session? Wear something you feel good in. Confidence shows on camera, and if you’re constantly adjusting an outfit or worrying about how it looks, that stress can sneak into the photos. Choose something that feels like you, something that lets you relax, focus on your pet, and enjoy the experience.
Because in the end, the best portraits aren’t about perfect outfits, they’re about the love between you and your pet. And that’s what we’ll capture together.
Ready to Book Your Pet Portrait Session?
If you’re dreaming of photos that showcase your dog or cat’s personality and the bond you share, I’d love to help. From choosing the perfect location to guiding you through wardrobe choices, I’ll make sure the experience is fun, stress-free, and meaningful.
The first step is a quick phone call! Click here to schedule a call with me.
