How to Make Your Dog Feel Comfortable During a Photoshoot

As a dog photographer, I’ve seen it all—excitable puppies, shy rescues, and everything in between.

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that capturing stunning dog portraits doesn’t start with the click of the camera. It begins long before that, with making sure your dog feels completely at ease in front of the lens. After all, a happy, relaxed dog is more likely to cooperate during the session, and their comfort is always my top priority.

If you’re worried about how your dog will behave during a photoshoot, you’re not alone! It’s a common concern among pet owners. The good news is that as professionals, we have a lot of tricks up our sleeves to ensure that even the most energetic or camera-shy dog can have a stress-free session. Whether your dog is outgoing, nervous, or somewhere in between, this guide is here to offer insights on how we work together to create a calm, comfortable environment so that your pup can shine in front of the camera.

From preparing their favorite treats to creating a relaxed atmosphere, I’m going to share some tips and techniques I use during every session to help your dog feel safe and comfortable. So, let’s get started and make sure your dog enjoys their big day in the spotlight!

Why Your Dog’s Comfort is Key to Great Photography

As much as I love capturing those perfect moments, the truth is that great dog photography is about more than just the “technical” aspects of photography. It’s about capturing your dog’s personality—whether they’re playful, curious, or a bit on the shy side. And the best way to bring out your dog’s true nature is by making sure they feel completely at ease.

When dogs are anxious or unsure, their body language changes—they might tense up, avoid eye contact, or become overly distracted. None of these behaviours are ideal for a photoshoot. But when they’re relaxed, you’ll see their ears perk up, their tails wag, and those bright, expressive eyes that make for a truly memorable portrait. That’s why I focus on building trust and creating a calming environment from the moment your dog arrives at the shoot.

Understanding Dog Behaviour in Front of the Camera

Our fur friends pick up on your emotions and the energy in their surroundings. If you’re anxious about how the session will go, chances are your dog will pick up on that anxiety, too. As a photographer, I approach every shoot with patience, calmness, and a sense of fun—because dogs can sense when we’re enjoying ourselves, and they’ll follow suit.

In my experience, it’s not about trying to make your dog fit into a rigid idea of what a “good” photo looks like. It’s about working with your dog’s natural behaviour, guiding them into poses that feel comfortable, and letting their personality do the rest.

Bring Comfort from Home: Familiar Items Make All the Difference

One of the easiest ways to help your dog feel at home during a photoshoot is by surrounding them with familiar objects. Dogs rely on their senses—especially their sense of smell—to feel safe, so bringing along their favorite blanket, toy, or even their bed can make a huge difference.

When your dog has these familiar items close by, it provides a sense of continuity. The studio or outdoor location might be new to them, but the scent and feel of their favorite objects help them stay calm.

How to Use Toys and Props to Encourage Natural Behaviour

Toys aren’t just comfort items—they’re also fantastic tools for getting your dog’s attention and bringing out their playful side. If your dog has a favorite squeaky toy or ball, bring it along! I often use these toys to engage dogs during the shoot. We’ll toss the ball or play with a squeaky toy behind the camera to capture those candid moments when their ears perk up, or they focus intensely on their favorite object.

During the session, we’ll work at your dog’s pace, incorporating playtime to break up the posing and keep them engaged. This also helps dogs who are initially shy or unsure about the camera—after a few minutes of play, most dogs start to relax and show their natural behaviour.

The Environment Matters: Give Your Dog Time to Settle In

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and letting them sniff around and get familiar with the space helps them relax.

I always arrive early to scout the location. That way, when you and your dog arrive, we can take a few moments to let them wander, explore, and settle in. During this time, I observe their behaviour—whether they’re excited, cautious, or a bit shy. This helps me adjust my approach to make sure we’re working in a way that feels comfortable for them.

Adapting to Your Dog’s Personality

Every dog is different, and part of being a professional dog photographer is knowing how to adapt to each unique personality. Some dogs love being the center of attention and will pose all day, while others might need more breaks and encouragement. I always adjust the pace of the session based on your dog’s energy levels and comfort, ensuring that we never rush or push them into situations that make them feel uneasy.

For example, if your dog seems a bit overwhelmed by the location or equipment, we’ll take a break. Sometimes, a few minutes of playtime or quiet interaction with their owner is all it takes to reset their mood.

Patience is the Key to Capturing Stunning Dog Portraits

One of the most important things I’ve learned as a dog photographer is that patience is everything. Dogs don’t follow instructions like humans, and that’s okay! The best dog portraits often come from moments of spontaneity—those little quirks and behaviours that make your dog unique.

If your dog needs a little extra time to feel comfortable, I’m more than happy to give it to them. My sessions are never rushed because I understand that great photos come from trust, comfort, and connection. Whether your dog is full of energy or prefers to take things slow, we’ll work together to create a session that feels right for them.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the best dog portraits come from a place of comfort, trust, and fun. As a photographer, my goal is to capture your dog’s true personality in every shot, and that starts with making sure they feel completely at ease.

Remember, it’s not about getting your dog to sit perfectly still for hours—it’s about working with their natural behaviour and having a little fun along the way. So, don’t worry if your dog is a bit nervous or excited at first. Together, we’ll create an experience that not only results in stunning photos but also becomes a cherished memory for you and your furry friend.

If you’re interested in learning more about a dog photography session or have any questions about how to prepare, feel free to reach out. I can’t wait to meet you and your pup!