Guest post in collaboration with Luwello.
We’ve all seen those breathtaking pet portraits: a dog sitting majestically against a sunset, frolicking with floppy ears in a field, or a puppy looking directly into the lens with soulful eyes. But if you’ve ever tried to take those photos yourself, you know the reality usually involves a lot of blurry tails, distracted sniffing, and a dog who is much more interested in a passing squirrel than your camera.
At Unleashed With Love, every portrait session is designed to capture the real personality of the dog in front of the camera. While lighting, location, and timing all play a role, preparation can make a huge difference in how relaxed and confident your dog feels during their session.
That’s why I invited Luwello to contribute to this guest post. Luwello designs durable, thoughtfully crafted dog gear that helps dog parents and their pups live active, adventurous lives together. Many of their products — from escape-free harnesses to reliable everyday walking gear — support the kind of confidence and comfort that helps dogs feel secure in new environments, including during experiences like photography sessions.
In this guest post, the Luwello team shares simple preparation tips that can help dogs feel calm, confident, and ready. Because it isn’t just about the lighting or the lens (though Jennifer is VERY skilled at catching the perfect moment!)—it’s about the preparation.
Here is how to prepare your dog for a photo session using professional training techniques that ensure they feel confident, calm, and ready for their close-up.
1. Master the “Settle” Before the Shutter Clicks
The biggest mistake owners make is trying to train during the session. The most important skill for a photogenic dog is to be able to settle in a new environment.
At Luwello, we advocate for the use of a settle mat as a psychological “home base.” In the weeks leading up to your shoot, practice having your dog relax on their mat in different environments so they get used to calming down in any location. On photo session day, you’ll likely bring your dog to a location they’ve never been to, which can cause overstimulation. Preparing in advance helps make the day go smoother.
Pro Tip: Use the settle mat as a prep tool, not a prop. During the actual photography session, place the mat just “off-stage” and only use it as necessary between shots to give your dog a mental break.
2. Build “Camera Confidence” at Home
It may seem silly to us, but to a dog, a camera lens looks like a giant, staring eye—which can be intimidating. You can build camera confidence by desensitizing them to the equipment:
- The Sound: The “click” of the shutter can startle some pups. Practice clicking your camera (or a similar-sounding clicker) and immediately following up with a high-value treat.
- The Lens: Hold your camera (or phone) up to your face and reward your dog for looking at it. We want them to associate that big glass lens with something delicious!
3. The Power of High-Value Rewards
A photography session is “Level 10” work for a dog. This is not the time for standard kibble. To keep their focus, you need high-value rewards—think small pieces of boiled chicken, string cheese, steak, or freeze-dried liver.
In dog photography, timing is everything. Use the treat to lure their nose into the right position, and “mark” the moment they look at the camera with a verbal “Yes!” before rewarding.
4. Burn Off the “Zoomies” Early
Should you exercise your dog before a photography session? The answer is a balanced “yes.” You want to burn off frantic energy about an hour before the session, but don’t exhaust them. A tired dog often has a drooping tail and a long, lolling tongue, which might not be the look you’re going for!
Aim for a 20–40 minute brisk walk or a “sniffari” to help them settle naturally. If you typically hit the trails, watch out for mud pits and burrs! If your dog usually wears a harness, Jennifer recommends bringing a nice flat collar for the actual photos, as it shows off their neck and chest better in the final artwork.
5. Focus on the Eyes
In pet photography, the eyes tell the story. To get that iconic “head tilt” or direct eye contact:
- The Squeaker Trick: Keep a small squeaker hidden in your hand. Only use it sparingly, if you squeak it too much, your dog will habituate to the sound.
- The Whispered Cue: Sometimes a very quiet, high-pitched “Who’s that?” works better than a loud command. It piques their curiosity without making them break their “stay.”
Ready for Your Close-Up?
Preparing your dog for a photography session is all about managing their emotional state. By using a settle mat to provide comfort in new locations, exercising beforehand, and keeping the session fun and reward-heavy, you’ll capture images that show your dog’s true personality.
Get out there and start practicing that “settle” today, and and before long, those picture-perfect moments will start appearing naturally. If you’d love help turning those moments into artwork that celebrates your dog’s story, you can learn more about an Unleashed With Love session here.
