The best props for a dog photoshoot

A Victoria, BC pet photographer’s top tips

Dogs have so much personality and usually need little embellishment when it comes to styling for photoshoots. However, it can be nice to add a little punch to the photo with a prop or accessory. I’ve had plenty of time working with dogs and learning what works well and what to doesn’t. Here are my top tips:

First, the props to avoid with dogs

Most dogs absolutely hate things on top of their head. Yes, if the dog is super patient sometimes I will try but they normally only tolerate a hat for a split second. My goal is to have the pet enjoy the session so I want to work with things that make them feel at ease. So while that floppy hat would look adorable in your tea party shoot, opt for something else instead, like I did here with Polly. I simply took a hair clip and clipped it onto her collar, which I was easily able to edit out after.

Polly sits in a comfy chair with a hair accessory clipped to her collar.

When in doubt grab a bowtie

Bowties are classic for a reason. Adjustable and available in a variety of colors, there’s one to suit every dog. Pick one in a subdued tone similar to the dog’s fur color for a classy vibe. To give the photo a fun pop, choose a color that stands out like this blue here. They can be styled in different ways too. The classic way is in dead center, making your pup look like a little gentleman. Style the bow off to the side to make your dog look like what he truly is: a gift.

Tyson enjoys sitting on a plush chair with a bowtie around his neck.

Think outside the box with props

If at all possible, avoid buying props at a pet supply store. Yes, doggy fashion has exploded in recent years and those bandanas are so cute. But if you’re crafting a fine art image you need to elevate the props. This doesn’t mean spending a fortune (my accessories come from mostly secondhand shops and Amazon). It does mean thinking outside the box and sometimes using things in unexpected ways like Polly below with a sunhat that looks like a little cape or lapel. Often your closet can be the best source of inspiration: ties, jewelry and scarves offer infinite possibilities!

Polly models a sun hat with an adjustable velcro opening.

Pick props that emphasizes your dog’s unique qualities

Think about your dog’s personality, quirks, what you love about them. You might be able to add props to reflect this. Do they have a unique or meaningful name? Merry’s owner’s love Lord of the Rings and is named after one of the characters. Before photographing Merry I started thinking about this and how to incorporate this vibe. I just happened to have a green velvet cape on hand from a child’s elf costume and I think it provided just the right element for Merry’s session.

Merry sports a green velvet cape with faux fur that blends nicely with his actual fur.

Less is more when it comes to props

As I mentioned, dogs need very little to embellish their innate beauty. Stick to one or two props to avoid overwhelming the dog and distracting from their natural charm. They will thank you and you will have art to cherish that never goes out of style!