The Myth of the Perfect Dog Portrait

Picture this. You're walking with your dog on a beautiful BC trail (all of them) and you come across a beautiful view. You automatically grab your phone and ask your dog to sit. It's a reflex, you do it - I used to do it. You ask them to sit, and then  do whatever you can for them to look at the camera. You want that cute IG photograph to post later.


Canine photography in it's art form (yes, it is a thing) isn't about any of that. Skilled dog photographers don't look for perfectly sat looking straight at the camera shots. Dog photography as an art is about a dog's personality, and about capturing them authentically being themselves.

Two playful dogs run and chase each other along a misty beach at sunset with mountains in the background.
A lone elephant walks across a misty desert landscape at dawn with mountains visible in the background.

Dogs aren't models - they are dogs.

Plain and simple. A good dog photographer will observe your dog and quickly be able to pick up on what works for them, and what does not. We work with their energy, never against it. Every dog's energy is different. The way they move, just being themselves is perfect - whether it's a head tilt, a zoom or a shake-off. We love it all.

Black and white Boston Terrier dog shown in a series of expressive head poses against a dark background.
A Border Collie dog runs and jumps gracefully in a series of action shots showing its agility and movement.
A penguin shakes off water droplets while standing near a rock, creating a sparkling spray effect in the light.

I always say that 'the best part of a photo session is when your dog forgets I'm even there'. That's often when I capture the more genuine and more emotional portraits in our client galleries.


My job is to adapt, not to control

A skilled dog photographer does not need a 'perfect sit' (whatever that is). We are trained to use a variety of techniques including fast shutter speeds, treats, play and sounds to create more natural looking portraits. A good portrait of a dog takes patience and creative thinking in positioning alongside many other technical factors.


So...what makes a great dog portrait?

Connection. Emotion. Authenticity. Our clients often comment on the positive relaxed nature of our sessions. We purposely design them to be this way to bring out the best of your dog - their cute, cuddly and silly side.


Next time your dog won't sit still, smile - that's the photograph worth keeping. That is the moment you will remember more than the others. That is why I love working with dogs and their families. I love their ability to live and respond honestly in the moment. I love their unpredictability, and their unconditional love for their families. I know their time with us is so short and rich - full of emotion and joy - they gift us so much. For all of these reasons, being able to create stunning portraits for clients is so deeply rewarding.