Helping Your Dog Feel Comfortable During Their Photography Session
Worried your dog won’t sit still during their dog photography session? You’re not the only one and the good news is, they don’t have to.
At Em Boyle Photography, dog photoshoots aren’t about rigid posing or strict obedience. They’re about celebrating your dog exactly as they are. Whether they’re an excitable pup, a gentle senior, or a bit unsure around new people, I work with your dog’s natural behaviour to create portraits that feel honest, beautiful, and uniquely them.
Here’s what you can expect, and how we’ll make sure your dog feels calm, safe, and happy throughout their photo session.
Start with What’s Familiar: How to Prepare
Preparation is the first step toward a great experience. Dogs are creatures of habit, so bringing a few comfort items from home can go a long way in helping them settle in. I recommend packing:
Their favourite treats – bonus points if they’re extra special or smell amazing.
A toy they love – particularly helpful for capturing playful expressions.
Their usual lead or harness – so they feel secure during transitions.
The goal here isn’t to “train” them into good behaviour. It’s simply to create a sense of familiarity in a potentially new setting – something especially important for more sensitive or rescue dogs.
A Dog-Led Approach: Letting Your Pup Set the Pace
The most important thing to know is that your dog gets to lead the way.
Every dog is different. Some are bold and eager to explore; others might hang back at first. Whatever your dog’s energy or personality, I’ll tailor the session to suit them.
Some sessions start with a burst of playful zoomies, others begin quietly, with a few minutes to settle in and sniff the surroundings. There’s no pressure, no time crunch – just space for your dog to warm up and feel safe.
A Calming Environment Makes All the Difference
No matter where your session is held, location is key to setting the right tone. I choose spaces that are quiet, distraction-free, and have just the right amount of natural light.
When you arrive, we won’t jump straight into posing. First, we’ll give your dog time to explore. Sniffing, stretching, and sussing things out – it’s all part of helping them feel comfortable in their environment. I’ll observe their body language and adjust my approach accordingly.
If they’re a little nervous? We slow things down. If they’re excited? We play and capture that joyful energy on camera.
It’s All About Trust (and a Little Bit of Play)
Dogs can sense our mood, so I bring a calm, relaxed energy to every session – and a bit of silliness when needed. I might squeak a toy behind the camera, rustle a treat bag, make all kinds of funny noises, or lie flat on the ground to meet your dog at their level (it’s not glamorous, but it works!).
If your dog starts to look unsure or overwhelmed, we take a break. Sometimes just a moment of quiet, a cuddle, or a treat from you is all they need to reset.
Some of the best images come not from posed moments, but in those tiny, unexpected seconds – head tilts, gentle eye contact, a wagging tail mid-pause. That’s where their true personality shines.
Realistic Expectations Lead to Better Results
Let’s be honest: your dog probably isn’t going to sit perfectly still and smile at the camera. And that’s perfectly okay.
The goal of a dog photoshoot isn’t perfection – it’s connection. It’s creating a relaxed, enjoyable experience that results in wall art you’ll treasure because it shows your dog as they really are.
So don’t worry if your dog is high-energy, camera shy, or somewhere in the middle. I’ve worked with them all. With a little patience, trust, and understanding, we’ll create something beautiful together.
Looking to book a Dog photoshoot in Wellington?
If you’re looking for a dog photographer in the Wellington Region, someone who takes the time to understand your dog and prioritises their wellbeing, I’d love to hear from you! Sessions are relaxed, tailored, and filled with genuine connection – and the resulting portraits are more than just pretty pictures, they’re lasting memories of your best friend, captured with care.
You can get in touch below to start the booking process, or ask any questions about what to expect. Whether your dog is full of beans, or just wants a gentle cuddle in the woods, their story deserves to be told – beautifully, and on their terms.
