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. 

Ready to capture

furever memories?

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Ready to capture furever memories?

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Ready to capture furever memories?

GET STARTED BOOK NOW

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.

My Favourite Dog Essentials

By Chantell Schulz • June 25, 2025
As a Calgary-based dog photographer, I’ve seen it all—from zoomies to total chill vibes. Whether you’re prepping for a shoot with me or just want to treat your furbaby to the best, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite dog products that are cute, functional, and available in Canada. These are the go-tos I love recommending to clients: tried, tested, and approved by the most photogenic pups I know!

Can Reactive Dogs Still Get Professional Photos?

By Chantell Schulz • June 12, 2025
Think your dog is too reactive for a professional photoshoot? Think again. This guide explains how I safely and confidently photograph reactive dogs and why they deserve to be celebrated too.
Composite of two dogs edited for better expressions

How To Include Multiple Dogs in One Photoshoot

By Chantell Schulz • June 6, 2025
Got more than one pup? Learn how I capture beautiful group shots — even when not every dog wants to cooperate. (Hint: a little editing magic is involved!)
Dog sitting and looking out toward the water at Fish Creek Park, Calgary, during a professional dog photography session.

How I Edit Out Leashes for Picture-Perfect Dog Portraits

By Chantell Schulz • May 30, 2025
Worried your dog needs to be off-leash for professional photos? Think again. At Renavia Photography in Calgary, I safely photograph dogs on-leash and remove leashes during editing — so you get beautiful, polished portraits without the stress.