Collars vs. Harnesses: What’s Best for Your Dog’s Photo Shoot?

When it comes to capturing those picture-perfect moments with your dog, there are countless little details that go into making each shot look natural and beautiful. One detail that might not seem obvious but makes a big difference in pet photography is whether your dog is wearing a collar or a harness. Believe it or not, this choice can actually impact the final photos in ways you might not expect!

So here’s my take: in my opinion, it’s best if dogs wear collars over harnesses during photo shoots. While harnesses can be great for walking, training, and safely securing your pet, they don’t always translate well in professional photos. Let me break down a few reasons why I feel this way and give you some tips if a harness is absolutely necessary.

Why Collars Work Better for Pet Photos

1. Less Obstruction
   Collars are typically less bulky and only go around the neck, leaving the rest of the dog’s body free. This means they don’t cover up any part of your dog’s unique body shape, markings, or fur patterns. In contrast, harnesses can cover a lot of the chest, back, and sometimes even parts of the shoulders. When you’re paying for a professional photo shoot, you want to capture your pet’s full essence, not have a significant portion of their body hidden behind a harness.
2. Easier Editing
   As a photographer, I can tell you that collars are much easier to edit out digitally compared to harnesses. Leashes can be removed from the photo in post-editing, but with a collar, I only need to focus on a small area around the neck. Harnesses, however, are trickier because they cover more of the dog’s body. When I try to edit out a harness, it requires recreating portions of the dog’s fur and body underneath where the harness was. If your dog has a unique fur pattern, this can be even more challenging, as I’d have to try to guess and reconstruct those details. So, if you want clean, leash-free photos, collars make it much easier to achieve that look.
3. Highlighting Your Dog’s Personality
   Part of the joy of pet photography is capturing your dog’s unique personality and charm. Collars tend to be less distracting in photos, allowing your dog’s expression, eyes, and overall demeanor to be the focus of the image. Harnesses, especially bulky or brightly colored ones, can sometimes steal the spotlight away from your dog’s adorable face and personality. A simple, well-chosen collar can complement the setting and let your dog be the star of the show!

But What If Your Dog Needs a Harness?

Of course, I understand that some dogs do need to wear harnesses for safety reasons. Certain breeds, small dogs, or dogs with specific health conditions may require a harness to prevent strain on their necks. And if your dog tends to pull or is more comfortable in a harness, that’s completely valid! Here are a few ways to make a harness work better in photos:

1. Choose a Photogenic Harness
   If a harness is necessary, opt for one that’s photogenic and fits with the theme of the photo shoot. A neutral color, like black, can help it blend into the background and minimize distractions. Alternatively, if the photo shoot has a specific theme, consider matching the harness to that theme so it feels more intentional in the photos.
2. Use a Bandana or Shirt
   Another trick to work around a harness is to add a holiday or themed bandana or doggie shirt that covers most of the harness. A cute bandana can act as an accessory, adding a touch of personality while hiding parts of the harness. This works especially well in seasonal shoots, like Halloween, Christmas, or even spring floral sessions. It draws attention back to your dog’s face and makes the harness less noticeable.
3. Coordinate with the Background
   Choosing a harness that complements the setting can also make a big difference. For example, if the photos are in a natural, outdoor setting, a harness in an earthy tone (like forest green or brown) will blend nicely, allowing the harness to fade into the background and your dog to stand out more. This coordination can make the harness feel like part of the scene, rather than a distraction.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice between a collar and a harness is up to you, and what works best for your dog’s comfort and safety. But if you’re after that clean, natural look in photos, collars have a slight edge in my opinion. So, I can focus on capturing the beauty of your dog’s unique features without the bulky distraction harnesses can sometimes bring.

Pet photography is all about showcasing the personality, charm, and quirks of each dog. Whether it’s your dog’s distinctive fur pattern, that adorable head tilt, or those expressive eyes, every detail contributes to the magic of the photo. By opting for a collar over a harness (when possible), you’re setting the stage for a beautiful, unobstructed portrait that celebrates your pet in all their glory.

So, next time you’re gearing up for a pet photo shoot, think about ditching the harness for the day or choosing one that harmonizes with the scene. And if you’re not sure what would look best, just ask! I’m here to help you capture the best possible memories with your furry friend. Check out my upcoming pet photo events or book a private photo session.