Top 10 tips For a Successful Dog Photoshoot: From a Hertfordshire Pet Photographer

As a pet photographer based in Hertfordshire, I’ve been lucky enough to capture wagging tails and wet noses all over the county — from playful pups in to serene seniors exploring the countryside. And if there’s one thing I know, it’s that a bit of preparation makes all the difference.

Whether you’ve booked a shoot with me (hi, I’m Maz Moss!) or you’re just doing some research, here are my top 10 tips to help your dog shine during their photoshoot.

1. Time it Right — Golden Hour is Magic

The best light for photos? Early morning or late afternoon. This “golden hour” gives us soft, warm tones that make your dog look amazing — and it avoids the harsh midday sun that can cause squinting and shadows. Plus, it’s often cooler and quieter.

Doris & Douglas: Two Great Danes at sunset in Hitchin Lavender fields

2. Pick the Right Location for Your Dog’s Personality

Whether your dog loves open fields to run wild, peaceful woodland walks, or scenic lakeside strolls, research is key, I’ll help you select a location that suits your dog’s energy and comfort level — some prefer quit woodlands, some are happy in a more open environment, whatever your dogs personality, the right environment makes a huge difference in helping your pup feel relaxed and engaged during the session as well as showing off their personality the best!

3. Bring Their Favourite Treats & Toys

This might be the most important tip: bribery works — and it’s 100% allowed here! Whether it’s cheese cubes or a squeaky toy, familiar rewards help get your dog’s attention and reinforce good behaviour during the session. I always come equipped with squeaky ball videos too!

Millie The mini daschund in a woodland photoshoot

4. Keep Sessions Short and Sweet

Most dogs (and people!) don’t have the stamina for hours of posing. My sessions are designed to be fun and efficient, with lots of breaks and movement to keep everyone happy and engaged. We follow your dog’s pace, so if they need a break to play/sniff/roll around, then you got it! Even my longer sessions include breaks and mixing it up for the dog.

5. Grooming Goes a Long Way

A quick brush before the shoot can make your dog’s coat really shine in photos. If your pup is due for a professional groom, try to schedule it 1–3 days before the shoot. Don’t forget eye wipes for tear stains, especially for lighter-coloured dogs. We're all about the bright eyed and bushy tails!

6. Dress to Complement, Not Compete

If you’re going to be in a few photos too ( it’s a beautiful way to capture your bond), choose outfits in neutral tones or earthy colours that complement your dog's colouring. Avoid bold patterns or bright neon, which can distract from your dog.

Dani& Mike understood the assignment with their outfits!

7. Check the Weather Forecast

Outdoor shoots mean we’re at the mercy of the weather. A little overcast? Perfect — that gives us even light. Rainstorm? We’ll reschedule. Flexibility is key, and I always keep an eye on forecasts so we can adjust as needed. Bright sunshine and not a cloud in sight may seem like the perfect weather for a shoot, but in reality it's squinting eyes and harsh shadows, shady spots are better for bright sunny days or shooting early or late when the sun is lower in the sky.

8. Don’t Stress if Things Don’t Go Perfectly

Dogs are dogs — some will sit and pose like supermodels, others will run circles around us. I’ve worked with all kinds, and I promise: we’ll still get amazing shots, even if the shoot doesn’t go “according to plan.”

Luna-Lore-Layla-Leo four dogs pose for a fur family portrait

9. Show Off Your Dog’s Personality — in a Polished Way

While I specialise in timeless, portrait-style photography, that doesn’t mean stiff poses or forced smiles. My goal is to capture your dog’s personality — whether it’s calm and regal, playful and cheeky, or somewhere in between — in beautifully composed images. With the right prompts, positioning, and plenty of patience, we’ll create portraits that feel natural, polished, and uniquely “them.”

10. Trust Your Photographer (That’s Me!)

I’ve spent years photographing dogs, and I know how to bring out the best in them — whether they’re shy rescues or wild adventurers. Your job is to relax and enjoy the experience. I’ll handle the rest.

Ready to Book Your Dog’s Photoshoot?

If you’re looking to capture your dog’s unique personality in beautiful, portrait-style images, I’d love to work with you. Whether your pup is playful, shy, or full of character, every session is tailored to bring out the best in them.

Click here to book a session

Let’s create timeless portraits you’ll treasure forever — one wag at a time.