Church calendars are full of gatherings that bring families together: baptisms, weddings, anniversary lunches, the big reunion dinner after a festive service. In many homes the dog is family too, and more people now want them in the group photo instead of shut in the next room. Here are five ways to make that happen with a little planning.
1. Give your dog a role, not just a seat
Dogs settle better when they have a place in the plan. Decide in advance where they will stand in the family shot, who will hold the lead, and when they can step away for water and a rest. A calm dog photographs far more happily than an overexcited one.
2. Dress them in something that is theirs
Bow ties clipped to a collar tend to twist, and festive costumes can look borrowed. A dog bandana printed with your own pet’s face and name gives them a finished look that is clearly made for them. Little Red Cute offers one that carries a version of your pet illustrated from your photo, with the name set into the artwork.
- 100% polyester, buckle-style fastening
- Size S fits necks around 35 to 44 cm
- Size M fits necks around 39 to 51 cm
- Size L fits necks around 42 to 56 cm
- Made to be washed
3. Order with time to spare
Send in a single photo, select a style, then review the completed artwork on your screen. Printing waits for your go-ahead, and payment follows that approval. Bandanas are produced to order in Singapore, with sublimation heat-pressing the design into the fabric. Start well before the event so there is no rush.
4. Choose a photo that shows their face
The illustration follows your photo, so give it a good one. Bright, even light helps. So does a face that is completely in frame, with your dog gazing somewhere close to the phone. A phone picture taken by a window on a bright afternoon is usually enough.
5. Plan a quiet corner
Even the most sociable dog gets tired at a long celebration. Set aside a shaded spot with water, a mat and a familiar toy. Once the group photos are done, let them retreat while the grown-ups linger over dessert.
Years from now, the photo you will keep returning to is the one where everybody made it into the frame. Planning a few small details ahead means your dog is there too, wearing their own face and name, right in the middle of the family.…