If your dog is more “zoomies” than “zen,” you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of luck when it comes to beautiful photos. Over the past 10+ years photographing dogs across Sydney, I’ve worked with every type of personality, from the laid-back loungers to the bouncy, bounding firecrackers. And truthfully, it’s the high-energy dogs that often bring the most personality to a session.
You don’t need a perfectly trained dog or one that listens to every cue. In fact, I’ve designed my entire session process to embrace the unpredictable. With a relaxed approach, a bit of patience, and a sense of humour, those bursts of energy become the highlight of your photos—not a hurdle.
1. Letting your dog be themselves
The best thing you can do for your dog at a session? Let them be who they are. There’s no pressure to sit, stay, or pose like a show dog—this is their time to shine exactly as they are. Dogs, like people, have their own quirks, preferences, and personalities, and I love bringing those to life in the photos.
Some dogs want to sniff every single blade of grass before settling. Others are so excited to be somewhere new that they’re bouncing off the walls (or trees!). That’s okay. I never rush the process or try to force them into a certain behaviour. Instead, I create an environment where they feel safe, free, and excited to explore. That’s where the most authentic images come from.
2. Quick reactions and split-second timing
One of the key skills I’ve honed over the years is reading dogs’ behaviour in real time. I’m constantly watching for subtle shifts in body language—when their ears perk up, when they glance toward their owner, or that half-second before they leap into the air. Those tiny moments are what make a photo special.
Because I work with so many active dogs, I’ve developed quick reflexes and an intuitive sense of when a great shot is about to happen. I shoot in short bursts and keep my camera ready at all times, so nothing is missed. These sessions are more about capturing movement and emotion than expecting stillness, and that’s where the magic lies.
3. Games, toys, and movement are welcome
Many dogs are happiest when they’re doing something, and I love incorporating that into the session. Whether it’s their favourite squeaky toy, a game of fetch, or just running freely through a paddock or park, these activities are not just fun—they help your dog feel more relaxed and engaged.
By giving them something familiar to focus on, we shift their attention away from the camera and onto something they genuinely enjoy. It also means we get those joyful, tongue-lolling, mid-run moments that dog parents absolutely love. Every wag, bounce, and tumble tells a story—and it’s all worth capturing.
4. Patience is part of the process
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through photographing dogs is that every dog is different. Some will warm up instantly, while others need time to get used to the camera, the sounds, and the new environment. That’s completely normal, and nothing about the session is rushed.
I let your dog set the pace. If they need to run a few laps to burn off steam before we get into portraits, we do that. If they need to sniff and explore before they feel settled, we give them that space. There’s no ticking clock, no pressure to “perform,” and absolutely no expectation for perfection. The more patient and relaxed the environment, the more your dog will feel comfortable to just be themselves—and that’s when we get our best photos.
5. It doesn’t have to be perfect
One of the most common things I hear from dog parents is:
"My dog never sits still – will you even get any good photos?"
The answer is yes. Always.
Perfection is overrated, especially in dog photography. The truth is, most dogs don’t pose like they do in those picture-perfect Pinterest shots—and that’s a good thing. Your dog’s personality is what makes them unique, and I want your final gallery to reflect them in all their quirky, expressive glory.
Whether they’re panting mid-run, bounding through tall grass, or pausing for a quick tail wag, those moments are gold. You don’t need a dog who can hold a perfect stay or keep their eyes glued to the camera. You just need to bring your dog, exactly as they are, and trust that I’ll capture all the best bits—even if it doesn’t look like a traditional portrait session.
So, if you’ve been holding off on booking a photo session because you’re worried your dog is “too much,” I hope this post has reassured you. Energetic dogs aren’t just welcome—they’re some of my favourites to photograph. Their spark, spontaneity, and joy make for truly unforgettable images that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
The session isn’t about changing who your dog is. It’s about celebrating them. Whether they’re a wild puppy or a high-energy adult, I’ll meet them where they’re at—and together, we’ll create something beautiful.
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