Helping your Dog Relax at a Photoshoot.
5 Ways to Help Your Dog Relax in Front of the Camera
Getting professional portraits of your dog is one of the most joyful ways to celebrate their personality. But as any pet parent knows, not all dogs immediately relax when a camera comes out. Some may get wiggly, shy, or a little too excited, making it tricky to capture the calm, happy expressions you’re hoping for.
At Toes and Beans Pet Photography, we believe the best photos come when your dog feels safe, comfortable, and at ease. That’s why a big part of what we do is creating an environment where pets can truly shine. In this guide, we’ll share five tried-and-true tips to help your dog relax in front of the camera, so you can walk into your session feeling relaxed.
1. Exercise Before the Photoshoot
One of the simplest ways to set your dog up for success is to give them some physical activity before their session. Just like people, dogs have different energy levels, and burning off some of that excitement ahead of time can make all the difference.
A long walk, a game of fetch, or a romp in the backyard helps your pup shake off the jitters. By the time the camera is ready, they’ll be more inclined to settle into poses, or at least sit calmly long enough for us to capture those soulful eyes or goofy grins.
Tip for success: aim for moderate exercise, not exhaustion. We don’t want your dog so tired they can’t keep their head up, just pleasantly relaxed and ready to enjoy some focused time with you.
2. Bring Familiar Comforts
New environments can be overwhelming for dogs, especially when bright lights, new smells, or unusual equipment come into play. To help them feel safe, it’s always a good idea to bring a few familiar items along.
Favourite toy: Having a squeaky ball or plush buddy on hand can give your dog a sense of security and even spark a natural, playful moment on camera.
Comfort blanket or bed: Something that smells like home can help them relax, especially if they need a little break mid-session.
Treats they know and love: This one is a must! Familiar flavours are motivating, and your dog will instantly recognize them as a reward for good behaviour.
When a dog has these touchstones from home, they often adjust to the studio or outdoor setting much faster. Plus, these items sometimes make fun props in photos—there’s nothing cuter than a pup cuddled up with their beloved teddy.
3. Keep Calm Energy Yourself
Dogs are masters at picking up on their human’s mood. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious about whether they’ll sit still, they’ll sense it—and may become restless in response.
That’s why one of the most powerful things you can do is simply stay calm. Take a breath, trust the process, and remember that it’s okay if your dog doesn’t perform perfectly. Professional pet photographers (like us!) are experienced in working with every kind of personality—from shy and reserved to full-on wild child.
What this looks like in practice:
Speak softly and positively to your dog.
Avoid tugging on leashes or raising your voice.
Focus on enjoying the experience rather than controlling it.
When you’re relaxed and happy, your dog will mirror that energy. Often, those candid, in-between moments when you’re laughing together turn out to be the best portraits of all.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is the key to helping dogs feel confident in front of the camera. Whether it’s with treats, praise, or play, rewarding them for behaviours you’d like to see encourages them to repeat those behaviours.
At Toes and Beans Pet Photography, we often use a mix of high-value treats, silly sounds, and toys to capture attention and reward cooperation. The goal is never to force a pose but to create conditions where your dog naturally wants to participate.
How you can help during your session:
Bring a variety of small, bite-sized treats that are easy to give quickly.
Praise your dog often—enthusiastic “good boys” and “good girls” go a long way.
Keep rewards consistent so your pup learns that staying calm and focused earns them something great.
This approach builds trust, lowers stress, and makes the whole experience fun for your dog.
5. Allow Plenty of Breaks
Not every dog can give us their best for an hour straight—and that’s okay. Breaks are an essential part of any pet photoshoot.
Whether it’s a chance to sniff around, drink some water, or just flop down and relax, short pauses help prevent overwhelm. Sometimes, it’s during these unscripted moments that we capture the most authentic expressions—a content pup sprawled in the grass, a curious head tilt while exploring, or a quiet snuggle with their person.
Sessions with Toes and Beans Photography are always paced with your dog’s comfort in mind. We take our time, letting them warm up and adjust naturally. After all, a relaxed dog is a photogenic dog.
Why Relaxation Matters for Dog Photography
Helping your dog feel calm isn’t just about making the day easier (though that’s a big perk). It’s also about the kind of images you’ll treasure for years to come.
A relaxed dog shows their true personality:
Gentle expressions when they feel safe.
Playful energy when they’re having fun.
Soft body language that reflects their bond with you.
The difference between a stressed dog and a comfortable one shows up clearly in the final gallery. Our goal is always to showcase the version of your dog you know and love—not one that looks nervous or forced.
Final Thoughts
Every dog is unique, and that’s what makes photographing them so special. With a little preparation and a lot of patience, you can help your pup feel at ease in front of the camera. Exercise, familiar comforts, calm energy, positive reinforcement, and regular breaks all contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable photoshoot—for both of you.
At Toes and Beans Pet Photography, we’re committed to creating a relaxed, joyful atmosphere where your dog’s personality shines. Whether they’re shy, energetic, goofy, or regal, we’ll work with them at their own pace to capture images you’ll cherish forever.
Ready to Book Your Dog’s Photoshoot?
If you’d love portraits that celebrate your dog just the way they are, we’d be honoured to help. Contact Toes and Beans Pet Photography today to book your session, and let’s create memories that highlight every wag, wiggle, and whisker.
Email us at toesandbeansphotography@gmail.com or send us a message through Facebook or Instagram!