Dog Photoshoot Ideas for Holidays and Special Occasions

Chantell Schulz • September 13, 2025

Dogs aren’t just pets — they’re family. That means birthdays, holidays, and milestones are the perfect excuse to book a photoshoot that celebrates your pup in style. Whether you’re dreaming of festive Christmas portraits, a playful Halloween setup, or a simple birthday celebration for your dog, the right photoshoot ideas can help you capture memories you’ll treasure forever.


If you’ve been searching for dog photoshoot ideas for holidays or special occasions, you’re in the right place. Here are some creative (and dog-friendly) ways to make your pup the star of any celebration.

🎃 Halloween Dog Photoshoot Ideas

A Halloween dog photoshoot is all about creativity and fun. Whether you love costumes or prefer a seasonal vibe, fall gives you so many options.


Ideas for a Halloween dog photoshoot:

  • Pumpkins and fall leaves for a timeless seasonal look.
  • A ghost dog costume (using a safe, lightweight sheet).
  • Dog-friendly costumes like superheroes, pumpkins, or bumblebees.
  • A rustic fall field or pumpkin patch as your backdrop.

👉 Safety tip: Skip candles in jack-o’-lanterns — LED lights or uncarved pumpkins are just as cute and 100% safe for pups.

🎄 Christmas Dog Photoshoot Ideas

Christmas is one of the most popular times of year for dog photoshoots...and for good reason. A snowy backdrop, twinkling lights, and festive props make for magical photos that are perfect for holiday cards or framed keepsakes.


Ideas for a Christmas dog photoshoot:

  • Cozy shots with your pup wrapped in blankets.
  • Sitting by a Christmas tree with gift boxes.
  • Snow play photos in a winter wonderland.
  • Santa hats, festive scarves, or reindeer antlers for an extra cute touch.

👉 Pro tip: Keep props simple and dog-friendly. A cozy setup or natural snowy background can be just as stunning as an elaborate holiday theme.

💘 Valentine’s Day Dog Photoshoot Ideas

A Valentine’s Day dog photoshoot is the ultimate way to celebrate puppy love. Think hearts, flowers, and all things sweet.


Ideas for a Valentine’s Day dog photoshoot:

  • A pink or red color palette with heart-shaped props.
  • Your pup surrounded by safe, dog-friendly flowers.
  • Simple portraits with a Valentine’s banner or garland.
  • Snuggly blanket shots that radiate love.

These photos make for perfect gifts, cards, or just a fun way to mark the holiday with your furbaby.

🎂 Birthday and Gotcha Day Dog Photoshoot Ideas

Your dog’s birthday photoshoot (or Gotcha Day celebration) is the perfect way to celebrate another year of love, loyalty, and tail wags.


Ideas for a dog birthday photoshoot:

  • A dog-friendly cake or pupcake smash.
  • Balloons, birthday banners, or confetti for a festive look.
  • A crown or bandana that says “Birthday Pup.”
  • Action shots of your dog zooming around with their favorite toy.

These photos are not only adorable but also capture the milestones that fly by too quickly.

🍂 Seasonal Dog Photoshoot Ideas

Even outside of holidays, every season offers unique opportunities for a seasonal dog photoshoot.

  • Spring: Cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and soft natural light.
  • Summer: Lakes, wildflowers, golden fields, or an evening sunset.
  • Fall: Warm tones, crunchy leaves, and cozy vibes.
  • Winter: Snowy portraits with scarves, jackets, or a cozy cabin feel.

Every season has its own magic — and your pup deserves to be captured in it.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s Christmas, Halloween, a birthday, or just because, a holiday dog photoshoot is one of the best ways to celebrate your furbaby. With the right props, setting, and photographer, you’ll walk away with photos that are full of joy, personality, and timeless memories.


If you’re looking for dog photography in Calgary that captures your pup’s personality during the holidays or any special occasion, I’d love to help. Let’s create photos that celebrate every season of your dog’s life.


📸 Ready to book your dog’s next photoshoot? Contact me here to plan your session.

How to Prepare Your Dog for a Photoshoot

By Chantell Schulz • September 6, 2025
Booking a professional photoshoot for your dog is exciting, but it can also come with a little bit of worry. “What if my dog won’t sit still?” “What if they’re too shy around new people?” Or maybe… “What if my dog turns into a zoomie tornado the second we start?” First things first: your dog does not have to be perfectly trained to have amazing photos taken. Every pup, from the calm cuddlers to the goofy wigglebutts, can shine in front of the camera with the right approach. Here are my best tips to help you (and your dog!) feel ready for picture day:

Why Fall Is the Best Season for Dog Photography in Alberta

By Chantell Schulz • August 28, 2025
When the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s something magical about autumn in Alberta. It’s also the perfect time to book your dog photography session. From cozy sweaters to colourful backdrops, fall gives you everything you need for unforgettable photos of your furbaby. As an Alberta dog photographer , I’ve seen how this season brings out the best in both dogs and their humans and here’s why:
Fall DogPhotography Calgary

Dog Photography in Calgary – Fall Minis at Fish Creek Park 2025

By Chantell Schulz • August 21, 2025
Fall in Calgary is one of the most magical times of the year — golden leaves, crisp air, and the perfect backdrop for timeless photos. By popular demand, Fall Mini Sessions are returning to Fish Creek Park — a short and sweet way to capture stunning seasonal portraits of your furbaby (and you, if you’d like to join in). These limited-time Calgary fall photoshoots are perfect if you’ve been wanting updated portraits of your pup in a gorgeous outdoor setting, but don’t want to commit to a full session.

Should I Get Professional Photos of My Dog?

By Chantell Schulz • August 13, 2025
Your dog isn’t just a pet...they’re family. While smartphones can capture everyday moments, professional photography offers something more: the chance to truly capture your dog’s personality, energy, and spirit in a way that lasts a lifetime. If you’ve ever wondered whether a professional photo session is worth it, here are five reasons to consider it.

Best Season For Pet Photography?

By Chantell Schulz • August 7, 2025
If you’re thinking about booking a dog photoshoot but aren’t sure when to do it, you’re not alone. One of the most common questions I get is: “What season is best for dog photos?” The truth? Every season brings out something unique in your dog’s personality, and the right one depends on the vibe you’re going for. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what’s right for your furbaby:

Dog Friendly Places To Visit

By Chantell Schulz • July 31, 2025
As a proud dog mom, I’m always asking: “Can I bring my dog?” And if the answer is no, I’m usually not that interested. If you're the same way, this blog is your go-to list of dog-friendly chain stores and restaurants in Alberta , the places where you don’t have to leave your pup at home or in the car. Whether you're running errands or planning a patio date, here’s where dogs are welcome too.

What If My Dog Doesn’t Sit Still?

By Chantell Schulz • July 24, 2025
Let’s be real...most dogs aren’t exactly known for sitting still. Yet, time after time, I hear the same worry from loving dog moms: “I’d love to book a session, but my dog’s way too hyper.”  “She never listens outside the house.”  “He won’t sit for more than a second!” Sound familiar? If this is you, take a breath. You’re not alone, and no, your furbaby does not need to be perfectly behaved to get stunning photos.

What No One Tells You About Senior Dogs

By Chantell Schulz • July 16, 2025
The quiet, beautiful chapter they never prepare you for. There’s a moment...sometimes small, sometimes impossible to ignore... when you realize your dog is slowing down. Maybe they don’t jump into the car like they used to, maybe their zoomies have turned into slow tail wags, or perhaps it’s the white fur creeping across their muzzle. No one prepares you for this part of it: The senior dog chapter. It’s quieter, gentler, sometimes frustrating, always emotional, and yet, it might be the most deeply connected season you’ll ever share.

What I Notice About Your Dog That You Might Not See

By Chantell Schulz • July 10, 2025
As a dog photographer, I get to meet pups from every walk of life: the bold and bouncy, the shy and gentle, the stubborn goofballs, and the soulful old souls. Every time, without fail, I catch something that even the most devoted dog moms don’t always see: The way their pup leans just a little closer when they’re unsure. The soft squint in their eyes when they’re happy. The proud little puff of their chest when they feel confident. That split-second moment when they look at you like you’re their whole world. These aren’t things you can pose or plan, but I live for them.

Why Does My Dog Act So Different at Home vs. in Public?

By Chantell Schulz • July 2, 2025
At home, your dog is relaxed. Playful. Maybe a little goofy. You know their quirks, their routines, and the way they light up your life without even trying. But outside? Things shift. They might get overwhelmed. Overexcited or suddenly unsure of everything. If you’ve ever thought, “This isn’t the dog I know…” You’re not alone. And more importantly, your dog isn’t doing anything wrong.