Your dog is part of the family. And when it comes to Christmas memories, why wouldn’t they be in the photo? Many people think a photoshoot with pets is complicated, that the dog won’t pose or that the result will be chaotic. But that’s far from the truth.
As a family session photographer in Barcelona, I (Tami from Wonderstory) always remind myself: “In every session, I love remembering that dogs aren’t just companions—they’re full members of the family.” With that philosophy in mind, I’ve prepared this guide so your Christmas dog photoshoot is calm, fun, and meaningful. I’ll show you how to prepare your pup and what to expect so the result is both heartfelt and professional.
How to Prepare Your Dog for the Session: 3 Key Steps
For your dog to feel like the star instead of an intruder in the studio, a little preparation makes all the difference. Think of it as a fun family plan where they’re the main character.
A visit to the dog groomer or a good bath at home the day before will make their coat shine under the studio lights. One key detail I always appreciate is clean **paws**. This helps us keep our Christmas setups in great shape for all families.
2. Snacks and Treats (Positive Reinforcement!):
Bringing their favorite treats is almost mandatory. “During the session, I’ll ask them to do a gesture or pose, and with a treat, everything becomes a game,” I explain. Snacks not only help capture their attention but turn the experience into something positive for them. In the end, they’ll always get their reward. Christmas is for them too!
3. Toys and Familiar Objects:
If they have a stuffed toy or blanket that gives them comfort, bring it along. It’ll help them feel at home. However, I advise with a smile: “better to avoid balls or objects that make them too excited—we’re looking for a calm atmosphere, not a soccer match in the studio.”
With these simple steps, your dog will arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy, allowing us to capture those pet christmas photos full of warmth and joy. If you want more ideas to celebrate the holidays, check out these Christmas plans in Barcelona.
Will My Dog Work as a Model? Personality vs. Breed
It’s one of the most common questions: “Will my dog behave?” My experience with hundreds of sessions gives you the answer: “I’ve been working with all kinds of dogs for a while, and the reality is that every session is unique. Often, Labradors or Golden Retrievers are easier because they tend to be calm and obedient. But it’s not always about size—some small dogs are super smart and even seem to pose on their own.” If you want a professional experience, I recommend booking a Christmas session with your pet in Barcelona at our studio, where I’ll help you capture special moments with your pet. We have different options for your Christmas photos, from photographer-led sessions to our self-photo studio for more spontaneous moments.
What matters most isn’t the breed but the personality. An energetic dog can give you photos full of life and movement, while a calmer one will offer moments of peace and tenderness. My job is to adapt to their personality, not force them to be someone they’re not. Forget the pressure—I’m not looking for a magazine model, just another member of your family.
The Helpful Commands (and What to Do If They Don’t Know Them)
You don’t need your dog to be an obedience champion to get great photos. If they respond to basic commands like “sit” or “stay,” we already have an excellent foundation to start creating.
But what if they’re a playful puppy or simply don’t respond to commands? No problem. “If it doesn’t work, that’s fine,” I reassure you. “There’s always space for more spontaneous photos, playing or interacting with you.” The key is that your dog doesn’t feel like they’re taking a test. “I prefer they have fun and that the photos reflect their true personality.” Sometimes the most emotional images come from a simple hug, a caress, or an unexpected moment of play.
The Secret to a Happy Look: Zero Poses, Pure Connection
If anything defines the Wonderstory approach, it’s the search for authenticity. In a christmas dog photoshoot, this is even more important. Animals don’t know how to fake it, and their joy or discomfort shows instantly on camera.
That’s why my method avoids stiff poses. “I usually ask you to look at them instead of the camera, and that’s when authentic expressions full of connection appear,” I share. The goal is to create an atmosphere so relaxed that you forget you’re in a session.
The secret is to create real moments:
* Gentle play: A belly rub or their favorite toy.
* Loving words: Talk to them in the same tone you use at home.
* Physical contact: Hugs, cuddles, or simply sitting together on the floor.
“That spark of happiness, that gleam in their eyes… you don’t get it with stiff poses, but with real moments,” I conclude. And that’s what we’re looking for.
Dog Christmas Photo Ideas: Natural and Fun
The best photos come from interaction. Instead of thinking “pose,” think “share a moment.” Here are some ideas that always work:
- The Family Hug: Everyone sitting or lying on the floor, hugging your dog. It’s a classic that never fails to convey warmth and togetherness.
- Gift Exchange: Let your dog sniff a gift box (empty and safe for them). Their natural curiosity will create very spontaneous photos.
- Under the Blanket: The whole family snuggled under a Christmas blanket, with your dog in the middle. It’s the perfect image of comfort and home.
- A Calm Moment: Simply sit by the Christmas tree and pet your dog, letting them relax by your side.
Remember that color coordination helps a lot. You don’t need to dress the same, but choosing a palette of neutral or Christmas tones can unify the image.
The Studio: A Dog-Friendly Space in the Heart of Barcelona
At Wonderstory, we consider pets part of the family, and our studio is fully prepared to welcome them. From temperature to the safety of the setups, everything is designed so your dog feels comfortable and secure.
If you’re thinking of capturing these holidays in a special way, I invite you to book your Christmas session in Barcelona at our studio. It’ll be a fun experience that will leave you with memories to keep. And for those who prefer a more spontaneous option, you can also try the dog and pet photography experience at our self-photo studio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Christmas clothing or accessories can I put on my dog for the session?
Absolutely! A small bow on the collar, a Christmas bandana, or even a fun sweater can add a festive touch. The key is comfort—make sure it’s something that doesn’t bother, squeeze, or prevent them from moving naturally. Avoid small accessories they could swallow and try them on at home before the session to see how they react.
How can I get my dog to look at the camera?
It’s the big challenge. A trick that never fails is to hold one of their treats or a noisy toy right above the camera lens. It also helps to use keywords you know capture their attention (“walk?”, “food?”). My team is always willing to help, making sounds or movements to attract their gaze at the right moment.
Can the photo session stress my dog?
It’s a very valid concern. That’s why our sessions are short and adapted to the animal’s pace. I never force a dog to do something they don’t want. We create a calm environment, take breaks if needed, and use positive reinforcement. As I say, “the key is that the dog doesn’t feel pressure.” My goal is for it to be a positive experience for everyone.
