How to Prepare Your Dog for a Photoshoot (5 Easy Tips)

Chantell Schulz • November 13, 2025

Your dog doesn’t need perfect training for their session, I promise.

However, there are a few simple things you can do to help the day go smoother and bring out their absolute best during their photoshoot.

1. Brush up on the basics

A quick reminder of “sit” and “stay” is more than enough. These simple commands help us get a few calm, posed shots before the wiggles take over. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just familiar.


Even a half second sit can turn into a beautiful portrait.

2. Bring their highest value treats

Every dog has that one treat they’d climb a mountain for. Make sure to bring the treats they find extra special, not their regular daily ones. They help with focus, expression, and rewarding all the good moments.
(And trust me...I’ve got plenty of tricks and sounds too.)

3. Let them burn a little energy first

A short walk or a few sniff breaks before the session helps take the edge off the excitement.
We’re not aiming for tired, just relaxed enough to take in the moment.

4. Pack their essentials

Poop bags, water, favourite treats, a simple leash, that’s really all you need.
Your pup will stay on leash and I take care of removing it in editing.

5. Stay calm, they mirror you

Your dog picks up on everything.
If you’re relaxed and having fun, they’ll feel it too and that confidence always shows in their photos.

With a tiny bit of prep and a whole lot of love, your dog is already set up for an amazing session.
All that’s left now? Letting them shine in front of the camera.


Ready to book your session and capture those heart-melting moments?
 Let’s fetch some photos.

What Your Dog’s Personality Tells Me as a Photographer

By Chantell Schulz • January 14, 2026
Every dog walks into a photoshoot with their own personality and that matters far more than how well they sit, stay, or look at the camera. Before I ever lift my camera, I’m paying attention to who your dog is. Their body language, their energy, how they move through the space, it all matters. That’s what shapes the entire session. Here are some of the personalities I see most often and what they tell me as a dog photographer.
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Missed Holiday Photos? Here’s Why It’s Still Worth Talking About

By Chantell Schulz • December 19, 2025
Christmas is almost here. The tree is probably already up, the calendar is full, and the season feels like it’s slipping through your fingers. If you’re thinking, “I should’ve booked photos earlier,” you’re not alone and you didn’t miss your chance to care. This post isn’t about squeezing in another to‑do. It’s about reframing why photos matter, even when the season is almost over.

The Perfect Gift Idea for Dog Parents

By Chantell Schulz • December 11, 2025
If you’re hunting for a thoughtful, unique gift idea in Calgary, especially for a dog parent a Renavia Photography gift card is the one that never misses. Whether you want to gift a full prepaid dog photoshoot or choose a custom dollar amount , it’s a present that feels personal, meaningful, and unforgettable. Instead of guessing sizes or buying another toy, give them something they’ll actually be excited about: beautiful photos of their furbaby to cherish forever.

How to Prepare for a Puppy Photoshoot

By Chantell Schulz • December 4, 2025
A puppy photoshoot is the perfect way to capture your furbaby’s cutest stage with their tiny paws, clumsy sits, floppy ears, and all their personality. As a Calgary dog photographer, I’ve worked with puppies of every energy level, from shy little beans to full-on chaos gremlins. Here are 5 simple steps to help you prepare and make the most out of your puppy photoshoot.

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

By Chantell Schulz • November 27, 2025
Planning a winter dog photoshoot in Calgary? Here are 5 expert tips to keep your furbaby safe, happy, and camera-ready for magical snowy photos.

Full Session vs Mini Session: Which Dog Photoshoot Is Right for You?

By Chantell Schulz • November 20, 2025
If you’re trying to decide between a full dog photography session and a mini session , here are the five biggest differences to help you choose the perfect fit for your furbaby.

Can My Dog Stay on Leash During a Photoshoot?

By Chantell Schulz • November 6, 2025
When you picture your dog’s photoshoot, you might imagine them running leash-free, fur flying, pure joy in motion. Here’s the truth: most of the dogs I photograph stay on leash the entire time, and you’d never even know it from the final photos. Here’s why that leash is actually the secret to those relaxed, natural images you love:

How to Photograph Multiple Dogs

By Chantell Schulz • October 30, 2025
Photographing one dog is an adventure, but adding a sibling (or two) can make things… interesting. Whether you’ve got a duo or a pack of playful pups, capturing them together takes a mix of patience, strategy, and just the right amount of chaos. As a Calgary dog photographer, I’ve learned a few tricks to keep multi-dog sessions running smoothly and looking effortless.

How to Photograph Big Dogs with Confidence

By Chantell Schulz • October 23, 2025
When most people picture a professional dog photoshoot, they imagine a big dog charging through tall grass or posing proudly against a mountain backdrop and honestly, they’re not wrong. However, there’s an art to photographing large breeds that goes beyond their size. As an Alberta dog photographer, I’ve met my fair share of gentle giants, from goofy Great Danes to soulful Shepherds, and every one of them has its own kind of magic. Big dogs bring presence, personality, and sometimes a little chaos (in the best way!). Here’s how I make sure every large dog looks as majestic, confident, and lovable as they truly are.

How to Photograph Small Dogs with Confidence

By Chantell Schulz • October 17, 2025
When you picture a professional dog photoshoot, it’s easy to imagine a big dog running through a field or posing proudly against a mountain view. What about the tiny ones? The pocket-sized pups who could practically fit in your jacket? As an Alberta dog photographer , I’m here to tell you that small dogs are amazing to photograph. Whether you have a Yorkie, Chihuahua, or Frenchie, your little dog can have just as magical (and comfortable!) a photoshoot as any big breed. Here’s how I ensure every small dog feels safe, confident, and completely at home in front of the camera.