Do you have a high-energy dog? I love how they bring us so much energy and joy. They truly are a gift. If you’re worried about your high-energy dog handling a photoshoot, let me assure you that they’ll do great.
These pups are full of life and personality, and that should show in their professional photos. A few extra wiggles are nothing new for me as a dog photographer. I’m used to it, and quite frankly, I love it. Spending time with your pup is what brings me purpose.
Here are a few ways I can accommodate our session so that your wiggly furbaby is captured beautifully.

The 10 Ways I Photography High-Energy Dogs
1. Start with a Play Session
Before we even think about taking photos, we want to give your high-energy dog some time to burn off excess energy. Play fetch, go for a quick run, or let them chase their favorite toy. By the time we’re ready to shoot, they’ll be a little more tired, making it easier for them to focus and cooperate. Even if that doesn’t tire them out, the rest of the nine tips will work just fine.
2. I Use High Shutter Speeds
I use a high shutter speed to capture as many photos as possible so that even if your dog is wiggly and excited, I’ll get the perfect portrait. I’ll take as many photos as I need to get everything we need.
3. Focus on Action Shots
I love to embrace their energy! High-energy dogs love to run and jump, so lean into action shots. Capture them in mid-air, chasing after a ball, or sprinting toward the camera. These action-packed moments showcase their personality and create dynamic, eye-catching images.
4. I Keep My Camera Ready
High-energy dogs are always on the move, so I’m ready to capture the moment at any time during our session. I want to capture every cute expression, head tilt, or puppy eyes moment for you. My camera becomes my eyes, documenting everything that I see.
5. Use Treats and Toys to Grab Attention
Sometimes, getting a high-energy dog to focus can be tough, but treats and toys can work wonders. I might have you bring their favorite toy that we can bring out to capture their expression for a portrait. Your pup deserves all the treats anyway, but they certainly help with getting them to look where they need to during our session.
6. Be Patient and Take Breaks
Photographing an active dog can take time, so be patient. If your dog starts to get too wild or loses focus, we can take a break. Staying calm and patient will ensure a stress-free experience for both you and your dog. I’m perfectly fine with taking breaks; I expect them. People need breaks, too.
7. Focus on the Eyes
The eyes are the window to the soul, and this is just as true for dogs. No matter how fast they’re moving, I keep my focus on their eyes. This will help draw you into the image and capture the dog’s expression and emotion, even when they’re in the middle of a big action shot.
8. Capture the Dog’s Personality
High-energy dogs often have big, bold personalities, and your photos should reflect that! Whether they’re playful, goofy, or mischievous, aim to capture their unique traits. Action shots can show off their zest for life, while close-ups of their happy faces or wagging tails can highlight their joyful spirit.
9. Choose the Right Location
The environment plays a big role in your pet photography session. If your dog loves to run, consider an outdoor setting with plenty of space, like a park or beach. A familiar environment will make your dog feel comfortable, and the extra space will allow them to move freely without distractions.
10. Keep It Fun
The most important tip when photographing high-energy dogs is to keep the experience fun and positive! Don’t stress if things don’t go perfectly or if your dog doesn’t sit still. The joy, laughter, and love that come through in the photos will be far more memorable than a perfectly posed shot. Allow your dog to be themselves, and the photos will naturally reflect their playful energy.

Capturing Memories
Clearwater Pet Photographer
You deserve professional images and artwork of your dog. Whether they have high energy or low energy, we’ll adapt the session to their needs. When I first meet with a client, I love to get to know them and ask all about their furbabies. I want to know everything because I love meeting new people and pets and so that I can tail-or your photo session.
I’d love to be your pet photographer. Please contact me here to schedule a call.