12 Dog Photo Shoot Ideas

Including your pets in family pictures is a must and we have some fun dog photo shoot ideas you’ll love. Everyone wants to keep their pets cute, goofy and natural moments saved in their camera roll or pet portraits from photos. Here are some great tips below if you are also looking to capture some great photos of your pet while traveling or hosting a special event like a wedding.  

Grab your phone or dslr camera and make sure your battery is fully charged before your dog photo shoot begins . We never want you to miss out on a puppy portrait session on a dead battery. Some of the dog photo shoot ideas below are also easy if you are prepared with some essentials. We have also included some puppy photo shoot tips to help you get your pups attention.

Dog Photo Shoot Must Have’s

1. Dog treats and water : sometimes a snack or a treat is needed to help motivate or reward our pets during photos. Just like when we get hungry or unmotivated to smile when a cookie will do the trick. Don’t forget to grab a snack and beverage for yourself too. Just in case you need a reminder, we have some an awesome custom dog mug gift idea for you and your friends.

2. Favorite toy – your dogs favorite squeak toy, bone, or stuffed animal may put them at ease and allow you to take some great photos. If you are looking for dog photo shoot props, these toys can be perfect to capture the happiness and excitement for your pup.

3. Dog leash – don’t forget the leash as you may be reviewing pictures on your camera and the last thing you want is your dog running after a squirrel.

4. Cardboard or sun shade – the professional dog photographers use a sun shade or block like cardboard if the sun is causing shadows on your pets. You can easily have a friend hold up the sun shade to be your assistant for your dog photo shoot session.

5. Battery backup or charger cable – I know we mentioned it before, but a dead battery always happens. Especially if you are taking any dog video shots as well. Get an inexpensive phone battery backup and you won’t have to stress out again.

6. Natural light is a photographer’s best friend during your dog photo shoot session. Flash can often cause the red-eye effect that doesn’t look good. Also, the flash bursts can scare your pets too. Try shooting on a rather cloudy day to get some diffused, soft light. You can shoot indoors too, but ensure you are shooting in a well-lit area.

7. Sharp eyes are the key to pet portrait photography. Your pets should have a sharp gaze and a look in their eyes that the camera focuses on. If you are right now working with a shallow depth of field and can get just one eye in focus, make sure that it is the one that is near the camera. You can also activate the eye AF for your pets in your phone settings. This will identify your pet’s eyes and focus on them for a moment. 

8. Comfortable animals give the best pictures. It is essential that your pet feels at ease and comfortable in the scenario. You can go to them and come down on your pet’s level. Just sit on the floor or lie on the belly and ensure you shoot from the pet’s eye level or under it. This is the best camera setting for portraits to show the world at your pet’s eye level.

9. Show your pets natural character – Dog portrait photography tips will allow you to capture the best pet memories. Does your dog love to hug or jump up on you? How about a favorite pose that comes natural to them? Remember to grab a favorite toy to capture those exciting moments of joy.

10. Take macro pet photos – macro pet shots are often stunning and are a must during your dog photo shoot. Use a macro lens on your dslr camera or any close-focusing camera. Fill the frame with the pet’s face and capture the natural light and expression. You will find close-up shots that make the best pet portraits.

11. Candid pet photos – be sure to capture some photos when your pet is acting the most relaxed and not looking at you. Sometimes a long gaze or sleeping pose after a dog photo shoot is the perfect natural shot.

12. Dog selfie – just like the macro shot but include the best professional dog photography you know…You! Grab your phone and take a selfie with your pup.

13. One last bonus tip and it has worked for me countless times. Ask a stranger to take your picture of you and your best friend. I have been at a park, beach, or hiking trail and asked a stranger to take a picture of my dog and I. Guess what? They always say sure.

I hope you have enjoyed our tips for taking the best dog photo shoot. The best pictures are natural and relaxed, so grab some snacks and make sure your cameral is fully charged for your outing. Be sure to give your pup a hug after a day of photography and enjoy making memories together.