“What If My Dog Won’t Sit Still?”

Let’s be honest — expecting your dog to sit perfectly still for photos feels a lot like asking a tornado to nap. But here’s the good news: you don’t need perfect behavior to get beautiful studio portraits. At The Dog Photog, I work with real dogs — energetic, goofy, shy, silly, or distractible — and help them feel comfortable enough to shine in front of the camera.

Here’s how we make that happen.

Patience > Perfect Poses

Dogs aren’t models, and that’s okay. What I care about most is capturing your dog’s personality — not making them sit like a statue. I use tried-and-true methods to get authentic moments, even if your dog is on the move or wildly excited.

Whether it’s a split-second expression or a small pause between zoomies, those are the moments that make standout portraits. Less than 25% of dogs sit perfectly through the session — but we still come away with photos you’ll love.

Tools of the Trade: Engagement, NEVER Force

Every dog is different, so I have a few gentle tricks to help them focus without stress:

• Toys & distractions: A favorite squeaky toy, tennis ball, or sound maker can help divert attention for a second — just long enough for a great shot.

• High-value treats: Special treats (the kind they don’t get every day) can help keep attention and motivate calm focus.

• Positive energy: Most dogs respond better to calm encouragement than pressure. I’ll work with your pup at their pace and adjust our approach based on how they’re feeling.

The studio environment is designed to be calm and low-stress, and I’m right there with you through the whole process.

Behind the Scenes: How We Capture the Best Moments

Portraits aren’t just about a sit — they’re about connection, expression, and personality. Sometimes the best shots happen when your dog isn’t looking directly “perfect.” Those candid, in-between moments show who they really are.

During your session, I might:

• Pause and review images with you

• Give your dog a quick break

• Encourage natural movement and curiosity

• Use gentle prompts to capture expressions

There’s no judgment here — only partnership and patience.

If you’ve ever worried your dog won’t be “good enough” for portraits, let that worry go. I’ve photographed dogs of all energy levels, personalities, and attention spans. Together, we’ll make the session enjoyable and get portraits that feel like your dog — not a forced version of them.

Ready to book your dog’s portrait session? Let’s capture those one-of-a-kind moments that make your pup unforgettable.