A wedding photographer is an excellent witness to the successes and failures when involving pets in important life events. Couples see their animals as part of the family and equal to any of the other guests attending the day\'s activities. However, it is important to remember that they are animals, and as such, can act unexpectedly or inappropriately. You don\'t have to eliminate the pet from the day and wedding photography, but it does require planning and understanding. Here are some tips to ensure you, your new spouse, and your beloved friend have a positive experience.

Asses Their Behavior

Pets are no different from human beings. They all have a unique disposition and behave differently in new or uncomfortable situations. How your pet behaves in large crowds is something you are definitely going to want to find out before the big day. It is not uncommon for a wedding photographer to witness an animal distracted and excited to the point that it is hard to control. With all of the people around, many of them find it too hard to follow directions. If you feel your pet will not react well during the ceremony, consider adding him or her into the wedding photography.

Even if the animal is excited or nervous, he or she will need to be controllable and able to take commands during the ceremony if you do choose to include your friend. If not, chaos will be the ultimate result. Find out how the pet behaves in front of the camera if you would like to have it included in the wedding photography. Sometimes, they become upset when the wedding photographer lifts the camera while others will preen and pose.

Animal Comfort Tips

The couple has many responsibilities and people to talk with on the big day. Adding the care of a furry or feathered friend to this list can be too much. A good wedding photographer or event planner will often suggest to couples that they find a family member or friend to look after the animal during the activities. The couple doesn\'t have to take time out of their schedule to care for their pet and it is comfortable that it gets the attention it needs. Just be sure to choose someone who is already familiar with it. If it will require too much time to look after the pet during the day\'s events, it might be better to arrange alternative care and keep him or her out of the event. You can always bring them while you are getting ready or to enjoy between activities.

Ceremonies can take more time than your pet is willing to sit through. If this is the situation with your pet, allow the pet to make a short appearance as the ring bearer, for example. Bringing along familiar items, such as a bed, blanket, or toy, can help a lot too. You can train them to walk directly to the item and remain there. Others will do this automatically because it might comfort them. These make great additions to the wedding photography as well.

If the animal does do something unexpected on the big day, remember that things happen and it is simply part of their nature. It may even be a great addition to the day. A wedding photographer can sometimes catch these moments in a way that the moment becomes something to cherish. They might even become one of your favorite pictures from the entire day. It doesn\'t matter whether you are holding the event on the east coast or having the wedding photography in Chicago, all you can do is cross your fingers and take the day in stride.