Pets are part of the family, but when it comes to real estate photography, they can present some unique challenges. While professional photographers are skilled at working around pets, a little preparation from sellers and agents can go a long way in ensuring a smooth, stress-free shoot.
How Photographers Handle Pets During a Shoot
Experienced real estate photographers know how to work quickly and efficiently, which means minimizing distractions—including curious pets. Here’s how they typically handle pets on-site:
Working Around Them – Some pets are naturally calm and can stay out of the way. In these cases, photographers may work around them, capturing angles that avoid any unexpected photobombs.
Editing Them Out – If a pet wanders into a shot, a skilled photographer can often edit them out afterward. However, this takes extra time, so it’s best to prevent it when possible.
Minimizing Movement & Disruptions – Photographers work with natural light and long exposure times, meaning movement (including a wagging tail or roaming cat) can cause blurry images. Keeping pets contained ensures crisp, clean photos.
Avoiding Pet-Related Clutter – While some pet-friendly homes showcase cozy setups, most photographers will recommend tucking away beds, toys, and food bowls to create a clean, neutral space that appeals to a broad audience.
What Sellers & Agents Can Do to Help
Sellers and agents can take a few simple steps to make the process smoother for both the photographer and the pets:
Secure Pets in a Safe Space – If possible, have pets stay in a separate room, backyard, or with a neighbor during the shoot. This keeps them safe and prevents interruptions.
Remove Pet Items – Tidy up food bowls, litter boxes, crates, and pet beds before the shoot. This helps create a cleaner, more inviting space for buyers.
Clean Up Fur & Messes – A quick vacuum or wipe-down of pet hair and paw prints will make the home look its best in photos.
Inform the Photographer in Advance – If pets will be present, letting the photographer know ahead of time can help them plan for any necessary adjustments.
Final Thoughts
Photographers are used to working with all kinds of home situations—including furry friends! A little preparation helps ensure that the focus stays on the home’s best features while keeping pets safe and stress-free. By working together, agents, sellers, and photographers can make sure the listing photos turn out picture-perfect—without any unexpected cameos!