Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Dog

Lori loves her pets and is going to be sharing some articles, tips and thinking from her own experience. (She recently wrote an article on Modern Apizza!)

Action shots are an excellent way to showcase your dog’s personality

Capturing beautiful moments with your dog is one of the joys of pet ownership. Whether it’s a candid shot of your pup playing or a posed portrait, the right photo can hold memories for years to come. However, getting the perfect shot can be trickier than it seems. Dogs are often wiggly, playful, or just plain stubborn when it comes to posing! Don’t worry—these tips will help you take the best photos of your dog, whether you’re using your phone or a camera.

1. Get on Their Level

One of the best ways to capture your dog’s personality is by photographing them at their eye level. This means crouching down or lying on the ground to get a more intimate perspective. It allows you to capture their face more clearly and makes the photo feel more connected. It also helps avoid the “up-the-nose” shot that can happen when you’re standing and shooting from above!

Pro tip: If your dog is too small or squirmy, you can kneel or even lie on your stomach to get the best angle.

2. Use Natural Light

Natural light works wonders for dog photography. Whenever possible, shoot your dog outdoors or near a window where the light is soft and diffused. Direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and make your dog squint, so aim for early mornings, late afternoons, or cloudy days for that perfect soft glow. If you’re indoors, try to photograph near natural light sources to avoid using flash, which can make the photo look unnatural and might startle your dog.

Pro tip: Avoid using a flash whenever possible—bright flashes can not only scare your dog, but they also tend to create red-eye.

3. Focus on Their Eyes

If you’re trying to capture your dog’s attention treats or their favorite toy can make all the difference

The eyes are often the focal point of a photo, and this is especially true when photographing dogs. Their eyes can convey so much emotion and personality, so try to capture a clear shot of them looking directly into the camera. This will create a connection between your dog and the viewer, making the photo feel more powerful.

Pro tip: Use the autofocus feature on your camera or smartphone to ensure the eyes are sharp and in focus.

4. Capture Their Natural Behavior

One of the most memorable shots of your dog might be the ones where they’re just being themselves—whether it’s running in the park, playing with their favorite toy, or relaxing on the couch. These candid moments often feel more authentic and meaningful than posed photos. Keep your camera ready and snap away while your dog is engaging in an activity they enjoy. You’ll capture them at their happiest!

Pro tip: Take multiple shots in a burst mode to ensure you don’t miss that perfect action moment.

5. Use Treats or Toys for Attention

If you’re trying to get your dog’s attention, treats or their favorite toy can be a game-changer. Hold the treat or toy near the camera lens, or use it to get them to look directly at the camera. This works especially well if your dog is more interested in running around or sniffing the ground than posing for a photo.

Pro tip: Hold the treat close to the lens but out of the shot so that your dog focuses on the camera without being distracted by the treat itself.

6. Keep it Simple: Minimize Distractions

Natural light does wonders for dog photography

When taking a photo of your dog, try to keep the background simple and uncluttered. Too many distractions in the background can take attention away from your dog. Look for clean, solid-colored backgrounds, or use a blurred effect (by adjusting your camera’s aperture) to ensure your dog stands out.

Pro tip: If you’re shooting outdoors, try to avoid areas with a lot of visual noise—like busy streets or bright signage—so the focus stays on your dog.

7. Take Advantage of Action Shots

If your dog loves to run, jump, or play, make sure to capture them in action! Action shots can convey a sense of movement and excitement. Whether it’s a photo of them running through a field or jumping in the air, action shots can be full of energy and fun.

Pro tip: Use a fast shutter speed (on cameras) or burst mode (on phones) to freeze the action and avoid blurry images.

8. Patience is Key

Lastly, remember that dogs are not always the most cooperative models! It might take time to get the perfect shot, especially if your dog is excited or distracted. Be patient, and don’t be afraid to take a few moments to let your dog settle or play before snapping a photo. The best shots often happen when you’re calm and relaxed, and your dog feels comfortable.

Pro tip: If your dog isn’t cooperating, take a break and try again later. Sometimes, a little patience and a few treats will do the trick.

A great way to capture your dog’s personality is by photographing them at eye level

Taking great photos of your dog can be a fun way to bond and preserve memories. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to snapping pictures that truly capture the personality and joy of your furry friend. Whether you’re after a playful action shot or a calm, posed portrait, patience and the right technique will help you get that perfect picture every time. Happy photographing!