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.

Winter Dog Photoshoots in Calgary: 5 Things You Need to Know

By Chantell Schulz • November 27, 2025
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By Chantell Schulz • November 20, 2025
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By Chantell Schulz • October 23, 2025
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By Chantell Schulz • October 17, 2025
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How to Choose the Right Photographer for Your Dog

By Chantell Schulz • October 9, 2025
So, you’ve decided your furbaby deserves their own photoshoot...amazing choice! But now you’re realizing there are a lot of photographers out there, and you’re wondering how to pick the right one. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here are a few things to look for (and questions to ask) before booking your dog’s big day.

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By Chantell Schulz • October 2, 2025
Halloween is almost here, and this year I wanted to do something special just for the pups: Halloween Minis in Calgary! These sessions are designed to be brief, enjoyable, and filled with festive charm. Whether your furbaby comes dressed in costume or shows off their natural personality, we’ll capture their spooky-cute side in a way you’ll love forever.

Legacy Sessions for Dogs

By Chantell Schulz • September 25, 2025
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