The old TV/Film/Photography addage is never work with children or animals. I never really got that; yes, they can be hard work but actually, I quite like that.
The trick, for me, is to spend time with them. Rolling children and animals in for a quick shoot doesn't work and doesn't produce great shots. I don't mind if I spend an hour or a full day with them, so long as I come away with the shots I want, I am happy.
Yesterday afternoon, I did a photoshoot for a friend and a client that I have done work for previously. This time it was their little dog, who was a nervous little fellow.
A little time spent and we came away with some lovely shots! Now to the editing suite to get the final images ready. Will post one or two when done!