The right outfit can turn a lovely photo into a portrait you’ll frame for a lifetime. The good news: you don’t need anything elaborate. A few thoughtful choices about color, fabric and shape will do most of the work, and we’ll fine-tune everything together at your consultation.
Start with your pet’s coat
The most flattering wardrobe works with your companion rather than competing with them. There are two beautiful ways to approach it.
Tone on tone. Ivory or cream with a white or cream dog creates a soft, ethereal, painterly look, where the two of you seem to melt into one shape.
Soft contrast. If you’d like your pet to stand out, choose a muted color a few shades away from their coat. Blush, dusty rose and taupe are gorgeous with white dogs. Cream, camel and oatmeal flatter black and chocolate coats. Ivory, sage and dusty blue suit golden and red coats.
Choose fabrics that forgive fur
Some fabrics hold on to every hair. Silk, satin, chiffon, tulle and linen let fur slide right off and catch the light beautifully. Velvet, fleece, chunky knits and dark cotton jersey tend to collect fur and show it in every frame. Whatever you wear, pack a lint roller.
Keep patterns quiet
Solid colors and subtle texture, like lace, pleats or soft ruffles, always feel timeless. Busy prints, logos and bright neons pull the eye away from what matters most: the connection between you.
Think about movement and comfort
Flowing gowns, robes and full skirts create graceful lines, especially when your pet is in your arms or your lap. Make sure you can comfortably sit, kneel and hold your companion. Delicate fabrics can snag on claws, so a light outer layer can be a smart choice for excitable pups.
Go easy on accessories
A fine pendant, simple earrings or a delicate bracelet adds polish without distraction. Skip anything dangling that might tempt curious paws and noses. Bare feet or simple neutral shoes keep full-length portraits clean.
Styling your pet
Book grooming two to three days before your session so their coat looks soft and natural rather than freshly clipped. A simple leather collar, or no collar at all, keeps the look timeless. If they wear tags, we can slip them off for the portraits.
Quick wardrobe checklist
Soft, muted colors chosen with your pet’s coat in mind
Fur-friendly fabrics: silk, satin, chiffon, tulle or linen
Solid colors or subtle texture, no logos or busy prints
Delicate jewelry and simple shoes
A lint roller, treats, and their favorite toy
Still deciding? Bring two or three options and we’ll choose together on the day. Learn more about how a session works, or read the FAQ.
About the author
Sean is the photographer behind Faithful Portrait Co., creating luxury dog and owner portraits for families in Scottsdale and across the Phoenix metro.