What's the Best Age for Dog Photos?
Chantell Schulz • June 19, 2025
Short answer? Every age is the perfect age. Long answer? Let’s break it down. Whether your pup is still all paws and zoomies, in their confident prime, or starting to slow down, each chapter tells a different story. Every single one is worth capturing.
Puppies (8 weeks to 1 year)
Let’s be honest...they don’t stay tiny for long. Those oversized ears, goofy stumbles, and teethy grins disappear
fast.
A puppy photoshoot freezes that fleeting chaos and turns it into lifelong memories.
Great for:
- New dog moms
- Breeders sending pups to forever homes
- Puppy's "gotchya day" or first birthday
Adult Dogs (1 to 7 years)
This is when dogs are themselves, full of personality, usually more comfortable in their routines, and often easiest to photograph. They still have energy, but their focus (even if limited!) can give us more flexibility with posing and location.
Great for:
- Celebrating milestones
- Dog moms who want those "classic" portraits
- Active outdoor adventures or styled sessions
Seniors (7+ years)
There’s something incredibly soulful about senior dog portraits. The grey whiskers, wise eyes, and unspoken bond —they hit differently. Sessions with seniors tend to be slower-paced, more cuddly, and deeply meaningful.
Great for:
- Legacy photos before goodbye
- Honourary birthday shoot (double digits!)
- Capturing a lifetime of love
So when should you book?
There’s no right time...just your time. Some of my clients photograph their pups every few years. Others reach out when something shifts: a diagnosis, a new baby, a big move, or a moment of "I just don’t want to forget this." If your dog is here and loved? That’s your sign.
If you’ve ever tried to take photos of your dog only to end up with blurry shots, glowing eyes, or a pup that looks away at the worst moment, you’re not alone. Many dogs aren’t naturally comfortable around cameras. Some even find the sound of a shutter or the sight of a big lens a little intimidating. As a professional dog photographer, I’ve worked with shy pups, high-energy zoomies, and everything in between. The good news? With a little patience and a few proven tricks, you can help your dog relax in front of the camera so their personality truly shines.
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.
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:
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 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.