What’s the Perfect Age to Schedule Your Dog Portrait Session
One of the questions I’m asked most often as a dog photographer is:
“When should I schedule my dog’s portrait session?”
The truth is, there’s no wrong time to photograph your dog because every stage of their life is full of moments worth remembering. But after photographing thousands of pups across the DMV, I’ve found there is a sweet spot that creates the most meaningful images for many families.
And that age is around five years old.
Before you wonder why I’m not shouting “puppy photos forever!” trust me, I love photographing puppies. Those floppy ears, awkward paws, and endless zoomies? Priceless. But when it comes to capturing the depth of the relationship you share with your dog… around age five, something truly special unfolds.
Let me explain.
Why Age Five Is the Perfect Time for a Dog Portrait Session
1. Your dog has grown out of the puppy chaos (mostly).
Around age five, dogs settle into their personalities. Their energy evens out, they can focus longer, and they’re more responsive during a session. That means:
Longer attention spans
A calmer presence
More time for emotional, connection-focused imagery
Of course, we’ll still get playful action shots, but you won’t spend the whole session chasing runaway zoomies.
2. You’ve built a deep, unmistakable bond.
By five, your dog isn’t just your pet; they’re your shadow, your best friend, your comfort, your family.
Your connection is visible in:
The way they look at you
The way they come when you call
The way their body relaxes next to yours
The ease of your relationship
This stage of life is rich with emotional storytelling. Your portraits reflect not just who your dog is, but who you are together.
3. This is the beautiful season, long before the golden years.
There’s something beautifully tender about the season between adulthood and seniorhood.
Your dog is:
Mature, but youthful
Confident, but playful
Settled, but still adventurous
It’s a moment that passes quietly, often without us realizing it until it’s behind us.
Photographing your dog at this stage creates a time capsule of:
Their expression
Their eyes
Their healthy energy
Their presence
…before they start to slow down in those loving, gentle older years.
Many clients tell me these portraits become some of their most treasured memories.
But… Don’t Forget Puppies & Seniors
If your dog is a puppy:
Schedule the session.
Those early weeks and months vanish faster than we expect, and a puppy session freezes that whirlwind of cuteness forever.
If your dog is entering their senior stage:
There is no time more meaningful than now.
Senior dogs photograph with a depth and soul you simply can’t replicate at any other age.
But if I could choose one age (one moment) for every dog parent to pause and celebrate…
Age five is pure magic.
Invest in Artwork That Lasts a Lifetime
A dog portrait session isn’t just about photos.
It’s about creating artwork that honors the bond you share, artwork that lives on your walls, your shelves, or your desk for years to come.
Whether it’s:
A framed portrait by your entryway
A canvas above your sofa
A fine art album filled with your favorite images
These pieces become part of your home and your story. And when the years go by — as they always do — you’ll be endlessly grateful you took the time to capture this moment.
Ready to schedule your dog’s portrait session?
If your pup is approaching age five, or if you’re simply feeling the pull to document the love you share, I’d be honored to create something meaningful for you. The first step is to reach out and schedule a quick phone call with me. I can’t wait to chat!
