Why I Photograph Dogs During Golden Hour

Chantell Schulz • July 16, 2026

If you've ever wondered why I recommend evening sessions, the answer is simple: golden hour helps me create beautiful photos of your dog.


Golden hour is the period just before sunset when the light becomes softer, warmer, and more flattering. Unlike the harsh midday sun, it creates a natural glow that helps your dog look their best.

Softer Light Creates More Beautiful Photos

Bright afternoon sunlight can create strong shadows, overly bright highlights, and uneven lighting. During golden hour, the light is much softer and more even, allowing me to capture beautiful details and natural colors without harsh shadows distracting from your dog.


The result is images that feel clean, timeless, and focused on what matters most: your dog.

It's More Comfortable for Your Dog

Your dog's comfort is always one of my top priorities.


During Calgary's warmer months, afternoons can be quite hot, especially for dogs with thick coats. By scheduling sessions later in the day, temperatures are often cooler and more comfortable. This helps keep your dog happier, more relaxed, and ready to enjoy the experience.


A comfortable dog always photographs better than one who is tired from the heat.

That Beautiful Golden Glow

One of the things I love most about golden hour is the warm glow it creates. The lower sun adds depth and warmth to images, helping create the look you see throughout my portfolio.


It's subtle, natural, and gives photos that extra touch of magic without feeling overly edited or artificial.

Why I Choose Golden Hour

When planning a session, I consider more than just the location. I also think about the lighting, the weather, and your dog's comfort. That's why I photograph most outdoor sessions during golden hour whenever possible.


It allows me to create beautiful images while giving your dog a more enjoyable experience. In the end, that's a win for everyone.

Professional dog portrait photography in Calgary, Alberta, showcasing artistic composition, detailed

Beyond the Lens: The Art of Professional Dog Photography

By Chantell Schulz • October 15, 2026
Discover the artistry behind professional dog photography, from thoughtful composition and lighting to leash removal, detailed retouching, and multi-dog portrait editing in Calgary.
Winter dog photography in Calgary with a dog enjoying a snowy outdoor session.

When Is the Best Time to Book Winter Dog Photos in Calgary?

By Chantell Schulz • October 8, 2026
Learn when to book winter dog photos in Calgary, from snowy conditions to the best timing for a beautiful winter session.

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.