Your dog holds a special place in your heart and your family. Think back on what life may have been like without this bond and how short a time you have together. That is why it is so important to have photographs that document your special relationship and capture all the things you so love about your animals.

We all have mobile phones filled with adorable photos of our dogs. While these are great to look at and share with your friends, perhaps they are not really “frame-worthy” quality or don’t cover all the important moments that will one day be such precious memories. Here’s my list of moments and things you don’t want to miss.

1. Puppy Photos  

Let’s face it, your dogs are little for such a short time and they grow so quickly! But those puppy weeks are definitely the cutest time of your dog’s life, so make sure you document those few weeks before it is just too late.

2. A wonderful photo of your dog and yourself or your family together

You should try to get one of these at puppyhood, adulthood and when your dog is a senior. You’ll definitely want to look back at your relationship over time. Of course this is not easy to achieve on your own. You will need some help, but you will never regret taking the time to arrange for a professional photo session that will provide you with these memories.

3. A great photo of your dog looking up at you

Why? Because this is the way we see our dogs 90% of the time! Most of us have hundreds of photos of our dogs looking up at us. This is the easiest type of shot to get as they look up at us constantly throughout the day. But do your dogs look really happy and alert and are the photos nice and sharp? Be sure to focus on their eyes when you snap away!

4. Photos of your dog playing

Make sure to capture photos when your dog is playing, running and having a blast. When your dog ages and slows down, you will be so pleased that you captured his energy and enthusiasm while you can.

I love capturing photos of dogs in action. How many amazing photos do you have of your dog at play? It is definitely the type of photo that can be a challenge!

Check out this blog on photographing dogs in action

5. Photos of your dog running towards you

Isn’t it wonderful to see your dog bounding towards you, ears flying and a look of joy on his or her face? Wouldn't it be great to freeze a few of those moments in time, to create memories that you will cherish once your dog ages? 

Those photos are not easy to capture and so you may want to think about engaging the help of a professional pet photographer.

6. Photos of your dog in his or her favourite location

Is there a favourite place you take your dogs for a walk or hike or to meet friends? One day when you look back at your photos you will want to remember your dog in that special place where you had a great time together! 

7. Going for a walk

Going for a walk is a daily activity that you share together. For me it’s a time of connection, simply doing what we love to do together. A special photo will capture this moment in time, this special bond. You’ll need some help for this of course, so don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend or partner or professional to help you get that perfect shot that you will treasure.

8. The Little Details

Think about the little things that you love so much. Is it the cute little puppy paws, the freckles on your dog’s nose, the way he or she curls up to sleep or a special wag of the tail. Remember to take photos of these little details! You’ll be glad you did.

9. Golden Oldies

Those senior dogs are so endearing. Don’t forget to capture their sweetness in a wonderful photo while you are still able.

Many of these photos can easily be captured with your cell phone or camera, but by hiring a professional pet photographer you will be sure to get those amazing shots that you sometimes just cannot achieve on your own.

Here is more on hiring a professional pet photographer.

After your session

Don’t let your memories languish on a USB key, or disappear on the back pages of  social media. You’ll get the most enjoyment from your photos by displaying them in your home or office as amazing wall art or in a beautiful album that you can enjoy each day.