How to Take Breathtaking Photos of Your Dog (That You’ll Actually Want to Frame)

Let’s face it, photographing your pup isn’t always as easy as it seems. At Peachy Dog Life, we know that dog mums snap hundreds of photos a week (sometimes more), and we also know how frustrating it can be when none of them turn out quite right.

So, we turned to our incredible Peachy community over on Instagram - the dog mums who post stunning shots of their dogs every day - and asked them to spill their top dog photography secrets. The result? A game-changing set of tips to help you take photos that are frame-worthy, not just phone-worthy.

Here’s what they had to say.

Make good use of portrait mode

One of our phone’s best-kept secrets! Switch from normal photo mode to portrait mode and watch how your dog comes into focus. Portrait mode is amazing for achieving that crisp look while blurring the background slightly.

💡 Pro tip: Placing them on a bed, chair, or table can help them stay still and adds height for a truly spectacular shot.

Use Treats as a Secret Weapon 🍖

One of the best ways to get your dog’s attention is with their favourite snack. Whether it’s a biscuit, piece of cheese, or even a bit of chicken, holding a treat just above the lens helps you get that focused, alert look, and often an adorable head tilt too.

💡 Pro tip: Use your treat bag to keep snacks handy. If you’re using a Peachy bag, that treat pouch is right at your fingertips (and discreet enough to hide the drool).

Try Saying a Random Word 🗣️

This one could be funny! Instead of calling your dog’s name, try saying something random like “banana” or “grandma.” The unfamiliar word grabs their attention in a funny, curious way, often resulting in ears up, big eyes, and a priceless expression.

Bonus points for filming a few takes: the reactions are gold.

The upside-down phone trick

This one was a little surprising, but loads of the Peachy community raved about the effects of turning your phone upside down to take the photos because it makes the focus really crisp!

Lighting is everything

If you want a good photo of your dog, then you need to have good lighting too. Face your dog towards natural light to capture a beautifully lit and well-balanced shot. 

💡 Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to play around with lighting. Try taking photos in strong morning and evening light with partial shadows for more interesting and artful shots.

Shoot from Your Dog’s Eye Level 🐶

One of the easiest ways to improve your dog photos instantly is to lower your camera to their level. This creates a more engaging, natural look and puts your dog in the spotlight where they belong.

Sit, crouch, or even lie down to match their perspective - yes, you might get muddy, but it’s worth it.

💡 Pro tip: You can also elevate your pup by placing them on a bed, chair or table, which can steady some and will give the height needed for a truly spectacular shot!

Use Burst Mode for Action Shots ⚡

Dogs don’t always stay still, and that’s part of their charm. Using burst mode on your phone or camera helps you capture movement without blur, giving you a whole sequence to choose from.

Whether your pup’s bounding across the beach or doing zoomies in the garden, this tip is a game-changer for energetic doggos.

Get Help from a Friend 👯

If you can rope in a partner, friend, or helpful stranger, it makes all the difference. Have one person hold the lead or get your pup’s attention, while the other snaps away. This way, you’re not juggling phone, treats, and a wiggly pup all at once.

Dog mum teamwork = better photos and fewer outtakes.

Squeaky toys and high-pitched voices

This is a given, and the more you can keep your dog’s attention, the better. Speak in high-pitched tones or squeak their favourite toy and watch how their ears perk right up for the perfect shot.

Choose a Calm Time of Day 🌅

Golden hour is our favourite - those magical moments just after sunrise or before sunset. Not only is the light flattering and warm, but your dog is often calmer at these times too, making for more peaceful, dreamy photos.

Avoid the midday sun if you can - it’s harsher, creates shadows, and your pup is likely to be more restless.

Teach a “look” command

By teaching your dog a command like “look”, you can train them to look at you and the camera when taking photos. Start by treating them every time they look at you, then incorporate your chosen cue word. Before long, you’ll have a professional model at your side!

Style Your Dog for the Camera ✨

Let’s be honest: we all love a good outfit moment, and our dogs are no exception. Dressing your pup in something stylish can elevate the entire photo. Think complementary colours, luxe fabrics, and designs that reflect their (and your) personality.

💡 Pro tip: Our Ivory Cream Dog walking Bag + Handmade Dog Bow are the perfect examples. They're soft, elegant, and finished with gold hardware that's practically designed for photo-ready moments. 

Editing, editing, editing…

But it’s not just the set-up and taking the photos that matter. The editing matters too. Our community suggested adding exposure and texture when editing your photos. You’ll be surprised how well they turn out!

Bonus: Do’s and Don’ts for Dog Photography 📸

DO:

• Use natural light when possible

• Keep your sessions short and fun

• Take breaks (especially in warm weather)

• Let your dog’s personality shine
  
  

DON’T:

• Use flash - it can startle your dog and cause red-eye

• Get frustrated if it doesn’t go to plan

• Force your pup into poses they’re uncomfortable with

• Forget to reward them with cuddles (and treats!)

Ready to Try These Tips?

Your dog is already perfect -  you just need the right tools to capture it. Want to see how our community does it? 

Check out our Instagram roundup 📸

And if you’re ready to take your dog photos to the next level, explore our most-loved dog accessories and harness sets.

Because every walk is a memory waiting to be captured, and every photo is more Peachy with a little planning (and a treat or two). 🐾