You want portraits that feel like you.
But the second you book your pet photo session, one question pops up: what to wear?
This guide is for people who don’t want to overthink what to wear to a pet photo session.
You’ll get clear direction on what works, what doesn’t, and how to feel confident in front of the camera, pet included.
Dress Like You, But Elevated
When planning what to wear for a pet photoshoot, pick clean, classic pieces you feel good in.
- Soft textures like knitwear, linen, and cotton look great on camera.
- Stick to neutral or muted colors like ivory, olive, or gray.
- Avoid trendy cuts or anything that needs constant adjusting.
- If you wouldn’t hang a photo of yourself in it, don’t wear it to your session.
Coordinate, Don’t Match
One of the biggest mistakes in pet and family photo sessions is everyone dressing the same.
Instead, aim for coordinated looks that fit together.
- Pick 2 or 3 tones and build around them
- Let everyone have different textures and layers
- Limit busy patterns to one person
- Examples: oatmeal, sage, cream. Or navy, tan, stone
- Keep jewelry and accessories simple and low-shine
These kinds of outfit choices work beautifully in both indoor and outdoor pet photo sessions.
If you want to mix and match colors, this is a great tool to see if they work together!
Don’t Forget Your Pet
Your pet plays a starring role, so include them when choosing what to wear to a pet photo session.
A clean, brushed coat is more important than accessories.
- Take off harnesses unless they’re meaningful.
- Use a collar or bandana in a soft color.
- Avoid bright gear that pulls focus.
- Wipe eyes and paws before we start.
If your pet wears clothing regularly, choose something that fits their personality and matches your session palette.
Think About Where These Portraits Will Live
Clothes should look good in the photo and on your walls.
If you’re printing wall art, plan your pet photo session outfit to suit your home decor.
Think about where you’ll display it. What colors are already in that space?
Need help? I offer outfit planning as part of every session prep.
What to Avoid
When thinking about what to wear to a pet photoshoot, skip:
- Neon colors or anything too bright
- Large logos or graphics
- Tight clothes that ride up when you sit or bend
- Matching outfits that look forced
- Shoes you wouldn’t wear in real life
- Styling your pet as an afterthought
Your clothes should help tell your story, not compete with it.
If You Have Kids or Multiple Pets
Sessions with kids or more than one pet work best with a bit of prep.
- Dress kids last to keep clothes clean
- Bring dry snacks and backup outfits
- Match clothing tones to your pets so nobody blends in
- Lint roll before the session starts
- Wipes and a spare brush are helpful to have nearby
- Keep expectations realistic and energy calm
The less pressure, the better the result.
What to Expect When You Work With Me
You’ll never be left guessing because we plan your session together:
- I help you figure out what works for your home, your pet, and your style
- You’ll get prep guidance with real examples
- I’ll never ask you to wear something that doesn’t feel like you
- Sessions are relaxed and pet-aware
- You’ll feel ready before I ever pick up the camera
No styling stress. No guessing.
FAQ
You don’t need new clothes. You don’t need to match.
You need pieces that feel like you, make sense in your space, and keep the attention on the connection between you and your pet.
