Planning Your Chattanooga Pet Photoshoot: Pros & Cons by Season

The Best Guide to Chattanooga Pet Photoshoots by Season

So, you’re thinking about booking a pet photoshoot? Love that for you. But before you whip out your calendar, let’s talk about when the best time of year is to capture your pet’s one-of-a-kind personality. Spoiler: every season in Chattanooga has its perks—and its quirks.

And just a heads-up, if you’ve got a specific season in mind, book early. Ride the Sky portrait sessions? Yeah, they’re like concert tickets—gone before you know it. Fall? You’re looking at an 8–9 month lead time, my friend.

Spring Pet Photoshoots: Fresh, Green, and Just a Little Muddy

Why Spring Shines:

• Perfect Weather: Before Chattanooga’s infamous humidity shows up like an uninvited guest, spring serves up cooler, comfortable vibes.
• Bloom-tastic Backgrounds: Think vibrant greens, blooming flowers, and trees shaking off their winter blahs.
• Shiny Coats: Pets are in peak post-winter glow, looking sleek and shiny.

Spring Struggles:

• Rain, Rain, and More Rain: Chattanooga loves a good spring downpour, so reschedules might happen.
• Mud Party: Got a white dog or a pet that loves puddles? Start prepping now.
• Pollen Problems: Allergies, anyone? You might want to pack tissues along with those treats.

Summer Pet Photoshoots: Sunshine and Sweat (But Make It Cute)

Why Summer Slays:

• Golden Hour Goals: Longer days mean more time to catch that dreamy evening light.
• No Mud, No Problem: Dry ground equals cleaner paws and less mess.
• Adorable Outfits: Sundresses, floppy hats, maybe even a bowtie for your pup—hello, summer fashion.

Summer Struggles:

• Melting Point: If you think Tennessee summers are hot, imagine wearing a fur coat.
• Humidity Hair Woes: Frizz is a lifestyle in July.
• Bugged Out: Mosquitoes, flies, gnats—bring enough bug spray to save the entire dog park.

Fall Pet Photoshoots: Leaf Piles and Cozy Sweaters

Why Fall Rocks:

• Cooler Weather: Late October through early November is peak comfort season.
• Leafy Perfection: Reds, oranges, yellows—your Instagram followers will thank you.
• Golden Hour, Early Edition: Perfect for evening shots without staying out late.

Fall Flops:

• Furry Fuzzies: Some pets start growing their winter coats early, which could mess with your sleek photo dreams.
• Sunsets That Don’t Wait: After daylight savings, it’s like the sun ghosts us at 5 p.m.

Winter Pet Photoshoots: Moody Backdrops and Cozy Feels

Why Winter Wins:

• Unique Aesthetic: Neutral browns and grays make your pet pop against the scenery.
• Winter Wardrobe Goals: Scarves, boots, and jackets—yes, pets can have a winter look too.
• Rare Snow: On the off chance Chattanooga gets snow, your photos will look magical.

Winter Woes:

• Dreary Days: February, we’re looking at you.
• Snow Roulette: Will it stick? Melt? Turn into a muddy disaster? Winter loves to keep us guessing.

The Fun Factor: Why Pet Photoshoots Are an Adventure

Let’s be real—working with pets is a mix of chaos, comedy, and cuteness overload. And honestly? That’s the best part.

I’ve had dogs knock me over, horses lick my camera lens, and a barn cat once straight-up napped on my gear bag mid-session. Your pet’s quirks? That’s what makes these shoots unforgettable. Whether your pup’s zoomies kick in at the wrong moment or your cat decides the camera is a laser pointer, I’m here for all of it.

Pro tip: Bring treats, toys, and a sense of humor. You’ll leave with gorgeous images and a story to tell.

FAQs About Chattanooga Pet Photoshoots

1. How far in advance should I book?
Honestly, ASAP. Ride the Sky sessions book 6–7 months ahead, and fall? Those spots are like pumpkin spice lattes—gone in a flash.

2. What if my pet doesn’t cooperate?
Newsflash: Most pets don’t! Whether your dog’s chasing squirrels or your cat’s judging me from afar, I’ll make it work.

3. What should I bring?
Snacks, toys, and maybe a lint roller (you’ll need it). Also, yourself—you’re part of the magic too.

4. Can we shoot at a specific location?
Absolutely! Whether it’s your backyard or a Chattanooga park, we’ll find a spot where your pet feels comfy and happy.

Still on the fence? Join the Ride the Sky Herd for exclusive updates, tips, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. Let’s make some magic—Chattanooga style!

Betsy Bird of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make horses look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. When she’s not celebrating the stories of the amazing horses in her clients’ lives, she invests time and energy into perfecting her equine photography skills and growing her business, hanging with her favorite rescue dog, Nitro, and planning her next big adventure. She also tries to spend some time educating and entertaining her fans and potential clients by blogging and posting on social media about whatever catches her fancy at the moment. 

Betsy is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with the organization Professional Photographers of America (PPA). The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,000 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism. Ride the Sky specializes in on-location photography for equines. Ride the Sky also has the option of bringing the studio to the stable. Based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works on location in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond.