Pets at weddings tips
Are you considering having your fur baby at your wedding, thinking of having him/her in the bridal party or even being the ring bearer?
Just as important as having your fur baby by your side on your wedding day is having someone that can masterfully capture each of the moments spent together. Your photos are one of the most important parts of the wedding day, so it should be high on your wedding planning priorities to have a photographer that can work with you and your pet to capture the magic.
While I am yet to photograph a lion at a wedding (who knows maybe this could be the year??) I have had the opportunity to capture my clients, and their beloved dogs, cats, camels, turtles, snakes, owls, llamas....the list goes on.....at exotic destinations all over the world. I personally love weddings where guests bring their pets and consider it a very special thing when you have your furry friend with you as it brings in your story to the photographs.
Some Tips
Let us start with the photographer: Yes, I mean the person photographing your wedding day! Could you imagine if your photographer had allergies that prevented him/her getting close enough to capture photographs? Contact your photographer and ask how they would feel being around your pet and if they have issues, eg allergies, fears etc. You will know straight away after speaking with them how interested they are on capturing these special moments for you.
Logistics: This is a key factor in deciding if you should have your pet attend your wedding, I mean if they are super important, I think its a big YES, but things can go a little wild if you have not thought about logistics. Some additional things to consider....
Is a horse/llama/camel considered a pet? (Make sure the venue allows the type of animal you are considering bringing, especially if it is a little more unique)
How are they in front of the camera? Most pets are not really all that into smiling at a camera, so consider them to just be apart of the day, and if they sit, stand, jump etc thats ok. My job is to capture the moments, of course if they are well-behaved let’s grab a quick photo of you two and your furry friend.
How will the type/behaviour of your pet affect the timeline for your photos? Again going back to logistics, Think about how your pet will be around the new environment, how will they handle to attention? Always having someone in charge of your pet can ensure you dont feel the stress of having to maintain order.
Ensure you have time during sunset without them, and just you two. I mean its amazing having your pet with you, dont get me wrong but having time together is just as important.
Entertainment - When I say entertainment, what I mean is if your furry friend might be a little distracted or is not the most obedient kind, having a distraction (maybe a friend with a few toys, treats etc) could come in handy in getting the best photos possible.
By all means bring your pets along if they are a huge part of your life, but dont forget, logisitics, delegation are the two main factors when cosnidering if you should or should have your pet at your wedding.
Ryan