Border collies sitting on rocky ledge with autumn foliage in background.

 

CANINE PHOTOGRAPHY

WORKSHOPS

About the workshop

This canine photography workshop is an in-depth, hands-on educational experience designed for photographers who want to confidently photograph dogs with intention, artistry, and professionalism. Whether you are new to canine photography or looking to refine your craft, this workshop focuses on creating impactful images while prioritizing the dog’s comfort, safety, and individuality.


Throughout the workshop, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of canine behavior and how it directly influences posing, expression, and overall image quality. You’ll learn how to work with dogs of varying energy levels, temperaments, and training backgrounds, allowing you to adapt quickly and effectively during real-world sessions. Emphasis is placed on reading subtle cues, building trust, and creating a calm, controlled environment that sets both dog and handler up for success.


The workshop also covers the technical and artistic elements of canine photography. Topics include natural-light positioning, environmental storytelling, background selection, composition, and capturing emotion and personality within a single frame. You’ll explore how to photograph dogs both independently and alongside their owners, with a focus on creating connection-driven imagery rather than forced poses.


Hands-on shooting time is a key component of this experience, allowing you to practice techniques in real scenarios with guided instruction. You’ll receive real-time feedback on camera settings, positioning, timing, and creative choices, helping you develop confidence and consistency in your work. In addition, the workshop addresses workflow fundamentals such as session flow, client communication during shoots, and preparing images for a polished, professional presentation.


This canine photography workshop is ideal for photographers seeking to elevate their work, create more meaningful images, and build a strong foundation in photographing dogs as both subjects and companions. By the end of the experience, you’ll walk away with practical skills, refined techniques, and a deeper appreciation for capturing dogs not just as pets, but as individuals with unique stories worth preserving.


What you will learn...

In this workshop, you will learn the essential skills needed to confidently create polished, professional canine portraits from start to finish. The curriculum is designed to bridge both the technical and artistic sides of canine photography, giving you a well-rounded foundation you can immediately apply to your own work.


You will gain a clear understanding of camera settings, including how to properly use aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to freeze motion, control depth of field, and adapt to changing light conditions. We will cover lens selection, focus modes, and exposure techniques specific to photographing dogs, ensuring sharp images while capturing expression and movement with intention.


Editing fundamentals are a core part of the workshop. You’ll learn an efficient workflow for culling, color correcting, and retouching images in a natural, consistent style. Topics include exposure and color balance, enhancing detail in fur and eyes, managing highlights and shadows, basic retouching techniques, and creating cohesive edits that elevate your final images without over-processing.


You will also learn how to work with natural light, choose backgrounds that complement your subject, and compose images that feel intentional and story-driven. Emphasis is placed on reading canine behavior, timing shots, and directing handlers when needed—allowing you to create calm, confident sessions that result in authentic expressions.

Yellow Labrador dog posing in snowy mountain landscape with evergreen trees.
Yellow Labrador resting on snow-covered log in winter mountain setting.
Close-up profile of a Shiba Inu dog in warm golden light.

Equipment Required

A DSLR or mirroless camera is required! Lenses, it is recommended that you have a 70-200mm or prime lenses such as 85mm or 135mm, additional lenses are okay. Multiple camera batteries, SD cards & external hard drives. Laptops are a must, we will be working in lightroom and photoshop, so it is essential that you have these softwares. While I try not to plan these in bad weather, please be prepared with waterproof camera equipement to ensure no cameras get damaged.


Investment

  • $175 (subject to change)
  • This includes:
  • 2 hours of shooting and 1 hour of "classroom" type education.
  • A combination of portrait and action photography
  • Use of non-comercial photos for portfolio and social media.
  • Individual and group education

                 *Does not include transportation, camera equipment, software, lodging & meals*

* This fee strictly covers planning, coordination with dog owners and time location scouting*

Golden retriever dog posing in field of blue wildflowers during golden hour.
Belgian Malinois puppy wearing pink collar playing in fresh snow.

WORKSHOP DATES

 

 

June 2026

Date: June 23rd

Location: TBD

 

Ready to join the workshop?

A limited number of spots will be available for the photographers that best fit the workshop experience. This will be a first come, first serve basis. Applying below will allow for me to be able to set you up for the best success!

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Dog Models


We are currently seeking dogs to model for an upcoming canine photography session. This call is open to dogs of all breeds, sizes, and training backgrounds, with an emphasis on showcasing a variety of personalities and expressions. Selected models will participate in a guided photo session focused on capturing natural movement, connection, and authentic canine character.

Model sessions take place in a controlled, calm environment and are designed to be a positive experience for both dogs and handlers. Dogs should be comfortable on leash and be able to work around new sights and sounds. Prior formal training is not required, though good basic manners are helpful.

Requirements for dog models:

  • Not reactive: no human or dog aggression allowed
  • Dog neutral
  • Comfortable of various terrains (snow, logs, grass, water, etc)
  • Can hold basic positions (on leash) for at least 5-10 seconds
  • Fun tricks are a huge PLUS


Model participants will receive edited images in exchange for their time and may have their photographs used for portfolio, marketing, or educational purposes. This is an opportunity to be part of a creative, professionally styled session.


If you think your dog would be a good candidate, apply below!