Photographing Dogs With Illnesses: Why These Moments Matter More Than Ever

Chantell Schulz • April 2, 2026

When your dog is diagnosed with an illness, everything changes. The routines you once took for granted feel heavier. The small moments start to matter more and suddenly, time feels like something you wish you could hold onto just a little tighter.


It’s not something any dog parent ever prepares for but it’s in these moments that time means everything and every memory means twice as much as before.

It’s Not About Perfection

One of the biggest worries I hear is, “My dog doesn’t look their best right now.” Maybe they’ve lost weight, maybe their fur isn’t as full, maybe they get tired more easily...but here’s the truth: this version of your dog still deserves to be remembered.


They don’t need to look perfect...they just need to be them. From the way they rest their head, the softness in their eyes, the quiet strength they carry, these are the things you’ll want to hold onto.

Slowing Everything Down

Sessions with dogs who are unwell look a little different, and that’s okay. There’s no rush, no pressure, and no expectations.

We move at their pace, take breaks when needed, and focus on creating a calm, comfortable environment where they feel safe. Sometimes that means shorter sessions, sometimes it means letting them simply sit or lie down and exist.

Those moments often end up being the most powerful.

Capturing Who They Are, Right Now

When a dog is going through illness, their personality doesn’t disappear, it just shows up in quieter ways.

Maybe it’s the way they still perk up at their favorite sound, or how they lean into you just a little more, or the gentle way they look at you, like they know you’re there for them.

For the Days You’ll Need It Most

No one likes to think about the “after", but photos have a way of becoming something you reach for on the hardest days. They bring back not just what your dog looked like, but how they felt to be around.


They remind you that even in the middle of something difficult, there was still so much love.

You’re Not Alone in This

If your dog is going through something right now, just know, you’re doing more than enough.

Loving them, showing up for them, and choosing to preserve these moments… matter more to them than you may realize.


So play with them, love them, and show them how much you care for them in this hard time.

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Do I Need to Train My Dog Before a Photoshoot?

By Chantell Schulz • March 26, 2026
If you’ve ever thought about booking photos for your dog, chances are this question has crossed your mind: Do they need to be trained first? Maybe they don’t sit on command, get distracted every two seconds, are a little too excited… or a little too nervous. Suddenly, getting photos feels like something you have to prepare for. Here’s the truth: your dog doesn’t need to be trained to be photographed beautifully.
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The Story Behind Renavia Photography

By Chantell Schulz • March 18, 2026
If you’ve ever wondered how Renavia Photography came to life… it didn’t start with a camera...It started with a dog.
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Why Black Dogs Are Hard to Photograph (And How I Make Them Shine)

By Chantell Schulz • March 11, 2026
Black dogs are stunning in person. Their coats can be glossy, rich, and full of texture. When it comes to photos, many owners notice something frustrating… their dog can end up looking like a dark blur with no detail. If you’ve ever taken a photo of your black dog and thought, “Why can’t I see their face?” you’re definitely not alone. Here’s why black dogs are harder to photograph and how I bring out all their beautiful details.

5 Common Pet Photography Mistakes (And How I Avoid Them)

By Chantell Schulz • March 6, 2026
Photographing dogs might look simple, but anyone who has tried it knows it can be surprisingly challenging. Dogs move quickly, get distracted easily, and don’t always cooperate with the plan. Over time, I’ve noticed a few common mistakes that many pet photographers make when photographing dogs. Avoiding these has made a huge difference in the way I approach my sessions and the photos I deliver.
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When Is the Right Time to Book a Dog Photoshoot?

By Chantell Schulz • February 26, 2026
If You’ve Been Saying “I’ll Do It Later,” This is for you: “I’ll do it later.” It sounds responsible...It sounds practical...It sounds like there’s time, but when it comes to your dog, later is the four words most people regret.  If you’ve been thinking about booking a dog photoshoot in Calgary but keep putting it off, this is for you.
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Indoor Dog Photoshoots in Calgary

By Chantell Schulz • February 18, 2026
If you live in Calgary, you know exactly what I mean when I say… second winter is back. This week alone brought freezing temperatures, icy sidewalks, and that “I thought we were done with this?” feeling. While outdoor sessions are beautiful, they’re not always realistic when winter decides to make an encore appearance. That’s where indoor dog photoshoots come in. Here are five reasons they might be the perfect fit for you and your furbaby.

Valentine’s Day Photos with Your Dog

By Chantell Schulz • February 11, 2026
Valentine’s Day is usually all hearts, chocolates, and candlelit dinners. There’s nothing wrong with that, but when you love a dog, Valentine’s Day becomes something a little different. It becomes a day to celebrate a love that doesn’t ask for much…but gives so much in return. Your dog doesn’t care about red roses or boxed chocolates. They care about time with you, affection on their terms, and the moments you share together. What's important is the real stuff that shows up in photos and memories years from now.

Why Bare Winter Landscapes Make Stunning Dog Photos

By Chantell Schulz • February 4, 2026
Winter dog photoshoots are often associated with snowy trees and white wonderlands, but some of the most striking dog photos happen before the snow falls or after it melts. Bare winter landscapes offer a clean, moody, and timeless backdrop that allows your dog’s personality to truly shine. If you’ve ever wondered whether winter dog photography without snow is worth it, the answer is a confident yes.

Winter Dog Photoshoots: Why Winter Is Perfect for Dog Photos

By Chantell Schulz • January 28, 2026
Winter dog photoshoots don’t get nearly enough love and they’re something more and more dog owners are starting to search for as snow season arrives. When most people think about booking photos for their dog, they wait for green grass, warm weather, and golden sunsets. Totally fair, but winter deserves a moment, because snow season creates some of the most unique, clean, and emotional images of the entire year. If you’re on the fence about a winter session, here’s what actually happens during one and why we only have a short window left to capture it.

Things Your Dog Will Do During a Photoshoot

By Chantell Schulz • January 21, 2026
If you’ve ever thought, “My dog could never sit still for photos,” you’re not alone. As a Calgary dog photographer , I hear this all the time and I promise you, it’s never a dealbreaker. Dogs don’t need to be perfectly trained to have beautiful photos. In fact, the things you’re worried about are often what make the images the most meaningful. Here’s what your dog will almost definitely do during a photoshoot: