What Should You Wear to a Dog Photoshoot?

Chantell Schulz • April 9, 2026

Booking a photoshoot for your dog is exciting… until you hit one unexpected question: What am I supposed to wear?

Most people overthink this part. They worry about picking the perfect outfit, matching their dog, or somehow “getting it wrong....” but the truth is, what you wear doesn’t need to be complicated.


In fact, the simpler it is, the better your photos will turn out because at the end of the day, these photos aren’t about your outfit...they’re about your dog.

Keep It Simple (Less Really Is More)

When it comes to choosing your outfit, simple always wins. Neutral tones like beige, white, black, cream, and soft earth tones photograph beautifully without pulling attention away from your dog.


Busy patterns, bright neon colours, and large logos tend to distract from what actually matters. Instead of enhancing the image, they compete with it.


The goal isn’t to stand out, it’s to support the overall image so your dog naturally becomes the focus.

Dress for Your Dog’s Colour

One of the easiest ways to elevate your photos is by thinking about contrast.


If you have a darker dog, lighter clothing helps separate you visually and keeps everything from blending together. If your dog has lighter fur, slightly darker tones can create that same balance.


This doesn’t mean you need to perfectly coordinate. It just means being mindful of how your outfit and your dog’s coat interact in a photo.

Don’t Try to Match Your Dog

It might feel tempting to match your dog’s colour or accessories, but this can actually have the opposite effect. When everything is the same tone, it all blends together and your dog loses that visual spotlight.


Instead, aim for complementary colours. Think tones that work well together without being identical. This keeps your dog as the centre of attention while still creating a cohesive look.

Choose Comfort Over Perfection

During your session, you won’t just be standing still. You might be crouching, walking, adjusting a leash, or moving with your dog. If your outfit feels restrictive or uncomfortable, it will show in your body language.


The best photos come when you feel relaxed and natural. So choose something you can move in, something you feel confident in, and something that doesn’t require constant adjusting.

Keep the Focus Where It Matters

It’s easy to feel like you need to show up perfectly styled, but your role in these photos is different. You’re there to support your dog, not take the spotlight.


Simple, well-chosen outfits naturally guide the viewer’s eye exactly where it should go...on your dog’s expression, their personality, and the little details that make them who they are. That’s what you’ll care about most when you look back on these images.

What I Wish More Dog Owners Knew About Dog Photography

By Chantell Schulz • September 30, 2026
When you think about a professional dog photography session, you probably picture the part where I show up with my camera and start taking photos of your dog....but that is actually only a tiny part of the process. There is a lot that happens before I ever press the shutter button. From watching the weather to checking golden hour times to learning about your dog’s personality, I put a lot of thought into what will make the session not only look beautiful, but feel good for your dog, too.

What a Dog’s Body Language Tells Me During a Photoshoot

By Chantell Schulz • September 24, 2026
When I'm photographing a dog, I'm paying attention to much more than whether they're looking at my camera. Throughout a session, I'm constantly watching their body language. It gives me little clues about how they're feeling, what has caught their attention, what they're comfortable with, and when I need to change my approach. Every dog communicates differently, and learning to recognize those small changes helps me create a session that works with the dog rather than against them.
Dog sitting outdoors during a professional dog photography session

Why Dog Photography Is About More Than Having a Fancy Camera

By Chantell Schulz • September 16, 2026
When you’re getting into photography, it’s easy to think that better gear automatically means better photographs. A newer camera, a sharper lens, faster autofocus. While good equipment definitely has its advantages, dog photography has taught me that your camera can only do so much. You can have an expensive camera and lens, but if you don't know how to work with the dog in front of you, the gear isn't going to magically create the photograph.
Finished artistic dog portrait from a professional Calgary dog photography session

What Happens to the Photos After Your Dog’s Photoshoot?

By Chantell Schulz • September 9, 2026
Have you ever wondered what actually happens to your photos after your dog’s photography session is over? You’ve spent an hour running around with your dog, laughing at their silly expressions, trying to get their attention, and capturing all those little moments. Then the session ends and I head home with hundreds(sometimes thousands) of images. But that’s only the beginning. There’s a lot that happens behind the scenes before you receive your final gallery.

Fall Mini Session Are Back!

By Chantell Schulz • September 2, 2026
Fall is almost here, which means my Calgary Fall Mini Sessions are back! Once a year, I offer my popular fall dog photography sessions in Calgary, giving you the perfect opportunity to capture beautiful photos of your dog surrounded by colourful autumn leaves. This year, we’re heading back to Fish Creek Park, one of my favourite locations for fall photos.

How I Choose Locations for Dog Photography

By Chantell Schulz • August 27, 2026
When you look at a beautiful park, you might see trees, grass and a pretty trail. When I look at it, I’m thinking about light, backgrounds, composition and where I can position your dog. Choosing a location for a dog photography session is about much more than finding somewhere that looks pretty. There are a few things I look for when I’m scouting a location.

What Happens If My Dog Won’t Cooperate During Their Photoshoot?

By Chantell Schulz • August 19, 2026
One of the biggest worries I hear from dog owners is, “What if my dog doesn’t cooperate?” Maybe they don’t have the best recall. Maybe they can’t sit still for more than two seconds. Maybe they’re easily distracted by squirrels, people, or literally anything happening around them. The good news? Your dog does not need to be perfectly trained for a photography session.

Fall Dog Photography Sessions

By Chantell Schulz • August 12, 2026
Fall is one of my favourite times of year for dog photography. The changing leaves, warm golden light, and beautiful colours make the perfect backdrop for photos that feel cozy, colourful, and full of personality. This year, I’ll be offering both fall mini sessions and full dog photography sessions throughout Calgary.

What Makes a Great Location for Dog Photography?

By Chantell Schulz • August 6, 2026
Choosing the right location can make a big difference in your dog's photos. While every park has something unique to offer, there are a few things I always look for before recommending a spot. My goal is to find a location that not only looks beautiful but also helps your dog feel comfortable throughout the session.

How I Photograph Families (Without the Stress)

By Chantell Schulz • July 29, 2026
Family photos with your dog are some of the most meaningful images you'll ever have. While they may look effortless, there's a lot happening behind the scenes to make sure everyone looks their best...including your pup. Here are a few ways I create beautiful family portraits while keeping the session relaxed and enjoyable.