Pets are wonderful subjects to photograph! And also they can be a challenge too. I’d recommend approaching them like toddlers. Sure, you might be able to give them some direction but at the end of the day they are going to do their own thing. So for the first tip:
Tip 1: Have patience and flexibility.
Pets can be taught to understand basic commands by your average pet owner, but at the end of the day they are just animals and they will do what animals do best: whatever they please. So be patient and be flexible. If your cat wants to nap, then photograph a cat nap. If your puppy wants to play, then photograph puppy play. However, when they are doing what you don’t want them to do then my second tip comes into play:
Tip 2: Don’t get angry, frustrated, or annoyed.
Your pet loves you. They just want you to be happy. They don’t understand what that weird thing in your hand that goes “click” does. They likely have no concept of photography. But if you lose your cool and get frustrated they will know it in a heartbeat even if you manage to not vocalize it. Animals are masters at reading body language. That’s kind of their shtick. So maintain your cool because if they think you are annoyed or frustrated then they will get upset and your whole photography plan will get that much more washed away. Worst case scenario is to stop and try again later.
Tip 3: Have fun.
You are happy when you have fun. Your pet is happy when you have fun. You are both happy when you both have fun. So try to keep it fun. Besides, by making your photo sessions fun, you will find your pet more available for photo sessions. That’s a win-win.
Tip 4: Bribe em if you have.
Look, your pets are smart. And if you add treats to your photo session they will not only cooperate better but they will also associate treats with photography and will be more willing to work next time you pull out your camera. This is especially useful for dogs, because dogs like to work and if they associate your photography sessions with work that will make them happier. But you must pay them if you are going to make them work.
Anyways, good luck, and have fun photographing your pets.