Top Tips for your Dog Photoshoot

As a photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing a wide range of subjects from couples and families to newborns and weddings but there’s something incredibly special about photographing dogs. Whether it’s a playful puppy, a wise old companion, or somewhere in between, dogs have a unique ability to convey personality through their eyes and expressions.

I’ve put together this guide to help you prepare for your dog’s photoshoot. From managing your dog’s energy to choosing the right location, these top tips will ensure that both you and your four-legged friend have a stress-free, enjoyable experience and, of course, come away with some beautiful photographs!

1. Plan Ahead and Be Patient

The first thing you’ll need for a successful dog photoshoot is patience. Unlike humans, who can follow directions and hold a pose, dogs have their own agenda. They may run around, get distracted by smells, or just want to sit and look at you rather than follow your instructions. This is completely normal, and one of the reasons why dog photography requires a more relaxed approach.

Before the session, plan ahead by considering your dog’s temperament and energy levels. Are they typically relaxed or full of energy? If they’re an excitable pup, a few quick bursts of energy can actually work to your advantage for action shots just be sure to give them time to settle in between. For older dogs or those who are more laid-back, you may need to engage them with some treats or their favourite toys to get them looking alert and interested.

2. Choose the Right Location

The location of your dog’s photoshoot can make all the difference in the final images. The setting should reflect your dog’s personality, and the background shouldn’t distract from the main subject. For example, if you have a playful puppy, a park or a grassy field with lots of space for running around is ideal. For a more serene, calm dog, a quiet spot with soft, natural light, like a garden or even inside your home, can be perfect.

Here are a few location ideas to consider:

• Outdoor spaces: Parks, beaches, woods, or gardens are excellent for capturing natural and candid moments. These locations allow your dog to roam freely, which often results in more relaxed and authentic photos.

• Indoor settings: If your dog is not too comfortable outside, or if you want to capture more intimate, close-up portraits, a well-lit indoor space works wonders. A simple backdrop or a favourite spot in your home can create stunning results.

• Studio sessions: For a more controlled environment, I offer dog photography sessions in a studio, where the lighting and background can be adjusted to suit the look you're going for.

3. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible

Lighting is key to any good photograph, but for dogs, natural light often works best. The soft, diffused light you get on an overcast day or the golden hour light at sunrise or sunset creates a warm, flattering effect. If I am shooting indoors, I will position your dog near a window to take advantage of the natural light coming in.

When in the studio I use a mixture of flash and continuous lighting to create the desired look.

4. Keep Them Comfortable and Calm

A calm, comfortable dog will give you the best chance of capturing beautiful images. Before the photoshoot, ensure that your dog is well-rested and has had a chance to play or take a walk. If they’re too energetic, they may become distracted or have difficulty focusing on the photoshoot.

If we are shooting outdoors, it is a good idea to make sure the location is safe and free of hazards. Watch out for busy roads or other animals that could distract or stress out your dog. Having a favourite blanket or cushion can also provide a familiar spot for them to relax on during indoor shoots, helping them feel at ease.

Remember, it’s essential to take breaks when needed. Let your dog have a few minutes to rest, drink water, and stretch their legs. This ensures that they don’t become overwhelmed and that you get the best possible results from the shoot.

5. Capture Their Personality

One of the things I love most about dog photography is the ability to capture the unique personality of each dog. Whether your dog is mischievous, shy, regal, or goofy, the images should reflect what makes them special. To get these shots, try to observe your dog’s natural behaviours and interactions. Are they playful and affectionate, or do they have a favourite activity they love doing? You can incorporate their favourite toy, a treat, or their best-loved pastime into the shoot.

A great way to showcase their personality is to capture candid moments. Dogs have a knack for doing the most charming things when they’re not being posed, so some of the best shots happen when your dog is simply being themselves. Whether it’s chasing a ball, rolling in the grass, or just staring into the distance with that thoughtful look, candid moments are always the ones that bring out the true essence of your dog.

6. Bring the Right Props

Props can add an extra layer of creativity and interest to your dog’s photoshoot, but they should never overwhelm the main subject. Keep the props simple and relevant to your dog’s personality. For example, a personalised bandana, collar, or even a favourite toy can help tell the story of your dog in a meaningful way. Just be sure that whatever props you choose, they don’t cause your dog any discomfort or distraction.

7. Use Treats and Positive Reinforcement

Dogs are motivated by treats and positive reinforcement, so it’s essential to have some on hand during the shoot. A few treats can help encourage your dog to look in the right direction, strike a pose, or even capture a playful moment. Just make sure to use treats that are easy to give quickly without causing too much distraction.

If your dog is particularly excitable or distracted, you can even use their favourite toy as a prop to get them focused. Tossing the toy a few times can also create dynamic action shots, capturing your dog in motion. It’s all about making the experience enjoyable and fun for both you and your dog.

8. Have Fun!

Above all, the most important thing to remember is to have fun. Your dog can sense your energy, so if you’re enjoying the process, they will likely have a better time, too. Relax, take your time, and don’t stress if things don’t go according to plan. Some of the best photographs happen when you least expect them, and capturing the playful, loving bond you share with your dog is what makes the photos truly meaningful.

Conclusion

A dog photoshoot is a wonderful way to preserve your pet’s personality and capture the special moments you share together. I offer both studio and location sessions, so what are you waiting for book your session today!

A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Spring Blooms for Your Wedding Day

What Are Spring Wedding Flowers?

Spring is often seen as a time of renewal and rebirth, and it’s no surprise that this vibrant season is a popular choice for weddings. The season is synonymous with fresh starts, vibrant colours, and a sense of joy and hope, making it the perfect backdrop for couples looking to tie the knot. One of the main elements of a spring wedding is, undoubtedly, the flowers. Flowers are not only symbolic but can also set the tone for the entire day, adding colour, fragrance, and beauty to the event. But with so many varieties to choose from, how do you select the right spring wedding flowers?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the most popular spring wedding flowers, why they’re ideal for a spring wedding, and how to incorporate them into your floral arrangements. Whether you're envisioning an intimate, rustic wedding or a lavish, romantic affair, this guide will help you find the perfect blooms for your big day.

1. Why Choose Spring Wedding Flowers?

Spring wedding flowers are a natural choice because they reflect the season’s characteristics: freshness, vibrancy, and growth. The weather in spring tends to be mild and pleasant, allowing a wide variety of flowers to bloom in full splendour. The colours of spring flowers are often soft pastels like blush pink, lavender, and pale yellow, though there are plenty of vibrant options too, such as bold oranges and deep purples.

Choosing spring flowers also means you’re working with seasonal blooms, which tend to be more affordable and eco-friendly since they don’t need to be imported from distant regions. Seasonal flowers are typically fresher and will last longer, both on the day of the wedding and in photographs.

2. Top Spring Wedding Flowers

When choosing your spring wedding flowers, it’s important to consider the look and feel you want to create. Whether you're aiming for a classic, romantic vibe or a more contemporary, rustic feel, the flowers you select can make a significant impact. Here are some of the most popular spring wedding flowers:

Peonies

Peonies are perhaps the most iconic spring wedding flower. With their soft, romantic petals and delicate fragrance, they are a symbol of beauty, love, and prosperity. Peonies come in a range of colours, from soft pinks and whites to vibrant reds and coral hues. Their lush, full blooms are perfect for creating dramatic bridal bouquets or for adorning tables and arches. Peonies also pair beautifully with other spring blooms, such as roses and ranunculuses.

Tulips

Tulips are another spring favourite, known for their elegant, clean lines and wide range of colours. From crisp whites to blush pinks, deep purples, and sunny yellows, tulips offer a bold and modern look. They work particularly well in minimalist or contemporary wedding designs. For a classic touch, you can use tulips in a simple bouquet or integrate them into larger floral arrangements for centrepieces or decorative touches.

Daffodils

Daffodils are synonymous with spring and are a great choice if you want to add a burst of bright, cheerful colour to your wedding. Their vibrant yellow petals bring energy and warmth to the day. Daffodils are particularly well-suited for rustic or countryside weddings, offering a charming and playful feel. They can be used as the focal point of a bouquet, in buttonholes, or as part of a stunning table arrangement.

Ranunculus

With their soft, multi-layered petals, ranunculuses exude a vintage, romantic vibe that is perfect for spring weddings. These flowers come in various shades, including soft pinks, deep oranges, and bold reds, making them a versatile choice for any colour scheme. Ranunculuses are often used in bouquets alongside other blooms like peonies and roses, as their delicate shape adds texture and depth to floral arrangements.

Freesia

Freesia is known for its delightful fragrance and dainty, bell-shaped blooms. It’s a popular choice for spring weddings because of its subtle beauty and the wide variety of colours available, including white, pink, yellow, and purple. Freesias work wonderfully in bouquets and can also be incorporated into centrepieces and boutonnieres for a fragrant touch.

Hyacinth

Hyacinths are fragrant, bell-shaped flowers that come in shades of blue, pink, white, and purple. Their sweet scent makes them perfect for adding a sensory element to your wedding flowers. Hyacinths can be used in bouquets, centrepieces, and even as decorative accents in hairpieces or boutonnieres. They add a soft, romantic charm to any spring wedding and pair well with other flowers like tulips, roses, and lilacs.

Anemones

Anemones have gained popularity in recent years for their unique and striking appearance. With their dark centres surrounded by delicate white or brightly coloured petals, they offer a bold yet elegant touch to wedding arrangements. Anemones work beautifully in rustic or bohemian-inspired weddings and are ideal for creating visually interesting bridal bouquets and centrepieces.

Roses

Roses are timeless, and though they are available year-round, they bloom in abundance during spring. Roses come in an extensive range of colours, making them versatile for any colour palette. From classic whites to soft blush pinks and bold reds, roses can be used in bouquets, boutonnieres, and floral arches. Their romantic symbolism makes them ideal for weddings of all styles, whether it’s a grand celebration or an intimate gathering.

3. Incorporating Spring Flowers Into Your Wedding

Once you’ve chosen your favourite spring flowers, it’s time to start thinking about how you want to incorporate them into your wedding day. Here are some ideas for showcasing your spring blooms:

Bridal Bouquets

Your bridal bouquet is one of the most important floral arrangements of the day. For a spring wedding, you can create a bouquet that reflects the season’s vibrant beauty. Mix and match spring flowers like peonies, tulips, and ranunculuses for a romantic and lush arrangement, or go for a more minimalist look with a simple bouquet of delicate freesia or anemones.

Bridesmaid Bouquets

Bridesmaid bouquets can complement your own bouquet or feature different blooms. You can use the same flowers in smaller, more delicate arrangements, or choose different flowers that still match the colour scheme. Consider using seasonal blooms like daffodils, hyacinths, or roses for a cohesive look.

Centrepieces

Spring flowers are perfect for creating beautiful table centrepieces. You can opt for low, lush arrangements for a relaxed feel or tall, dramatic centrepieces that make a statement. Consider mixing flowers like tulips, ranunculuses, and hyacinths for a bright, cheerful look. Seasonal greenery like ivy and eucalyptus can also be added to create texture and depth.

Floral Arches and Installations

Spring flowers are perfect for creating stunning focal points, such as floral arches or installations. Whether you're getting married outdoors or in a venue, a floral arch adorned with peonies, roses, and ivy creates a beautiful and romantic backdrop for your ceremony. Floral installations can also be incorporated into other areas, like the entrance, reception tables, or hanging from the ceiling to create a whimsical, magical atmosphere.

Wedding Cake Decorations

For a subtle but impactful touch, consider using spring flowers as cake decorations. Delicate blooms like anemones, ranunculuses, or freesias can be added to your cake for a fresh and elegant look. These blooms can be scattered across the tiers or used as a focal point on top of the cake.

4. Conclusion

Spring wedding flowers offer a wide array of choices that can be tailored to suit any couple’s style and wedding theme. From the soft, romantic allure of peonies to the cheerful brightness of daffodils, spring flowers bring beauty, fragrance, and meaning to your celebration. By choosing seasonal blooms, you’re not only ensuring that your wedding flowers are fresh and affordable, but you’re also honouring the natural beauty of the season.

So whether you’re dreaming of a rustic countryside wedding, a grand formal affair, or something more modern and minimalist, spring flowers provide endless possibilities to create a stunning floral design that perfectly reflects the beauty of your special day.

What to expect at your Newborn Photography Session

Welcoming a newborn into the world is a monumental event in any family’s life. I have been lucky enough to experience the newborn bubble three times with my own children. The first few weeks are filled with joy, exhaustion, and a fair amount of unpredictability. Amid the whirlwind of nappies, night feeds, and tender moments, many parents also ask me to capture these early memories with a professional newborn photography session. These images are cherished forever, immortalising your baby’s first moments in a way words often can’t.

If you're preparing for your upcoming newborn photography session, you may have a range of emotions, from excitement to anxiety about what’s to come. Understanding what to expect can ease the process, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for your newborn photoshoot.

Booking Your Newborn Photography Session

One of the most important aspects of newborn photography is timing. Newborns are typically photographed within the first two weeks of life, as they are in a deep sleep phase that makes it easier to pose them in those classic curled-up positions. If you’re hoping to capture those delicate features and sleepy moments, it’s best to book your session as early as possible — ideally, in your second trimester. A date is booked around your due date and moved as needed. Whilst it is advisable to book early I do sometimes have last minute availability if you haven’t pre booked.

If your baby has already passed the two-week mark. I am experienced in working with slightly older babies, though it may be more challenging to achieve the classic poses, I am still able to capture all those tiny newborn details.

Whether you want a traditional posed shoot with props or a more natural, lifestyle approach, I ensure that I am able to create newborn photos that are cherished for a lifetime.

Preparing for Your Newborn Photography Session

Before your shoot, there are a few things to consider to ensure everything runs smoothly.

1. Clothing Choices: Keep outfits simple and neutral. I have a selection of outfits available at the studio for your little one to wear. However if you have a particular outfit you would like you are more than welcome to bring this. Parents and siblings may also be included in some shots, so choose soft, comfortable clothing in neutral tones or pastels. Avoid clothing with logos or bold patterns as it can distract from the focus of the image — your newborn.

2. Keep Baby and yourself Comfortable: For newborn photoshoots my studio is kept warm (around 25-27°C), make sure to dress your baby in comfortable clothing that can easily be removed. You may also wish to dress in layers for your comfort.

3. Feeding Before the Session: A well-fed baby is generally a happier baby. Try to feed your little one right before the shoot so they are content and sleepy. It’s also a good idea to bring extra milk, formula, or snacks for yourself in case of a longer shoot. I do have drinks and some snacks available at the studio and you are of course welcome to bottle/breast feed your baby in the studio.

4. Extra Comfort: Newborn sessions can last anywhere between two and four hours. The length of the shoot allows for plenty of time for breaks, feeding, and comforting your baby. Make sure to bring along a blanket, pacifier, or any other item that helps soothe your baby during the shoot.

5. Prepare the Family: If siblings or parents are part of the photos, it’s a good idea to prepare them ahead of time. Little ones may become restless during a long shoot, so ensuring they have something to keep them entertained can help.

What Happens During the Session?

A typical newborn photography session will last between 2 to 4 hours. This long duration may seem daunting, but it’s important to allow time for breaks, feeding, and soothing your baby. Here’s what you can expect:

• Poses and Props: I use a variety of poses that are designed to show off your baby’s natural features, such as their little fingers and toes. You might see your baby in a variety of positions, from sleeping on their tummy to curled up in a fetal position, or even on their back, safely supported by blankets and props. If you wish I can also do some wrapped and some themed poses, using a variety of props that I have at the studio. Not everyone wants wrapped sessions and this is absolutely your own personal choice.

• Gentle Handling: I am very experienced in handling babies, and will always prioritise your baby’s safety. I will never force a baby to be in a certain pose or position.

• Parental Involvement: While the main focus of the session is on your newborn, you may also wish to be in some of the photos too. I will never force anyone to have their photo taken. Some parents just want hands or details to be in the photos, other families want more posed pictures together.

Remember to enjoy the process—after all, these are the moments that will soon become treasured memories.