When choosing a location for a dog photography session, it’s essential to look for specific elements that create a diverse range of images, from action shots to intimate portraits. As an experienced pet photographer in Niagara, Ontario, I’ve found that certain environmental features make all the difference in capturing a variety of memorable shots. Here’s what I consider when selecting a location, along with some of my favourite spots in the Niagara area.
1. Open Fields for Action Shots
For dynamic, in-motion images, an open field is ideal. Here, we can capture dogs at full speed with plenty of space for them to run. To achieve the best light, I recommend scheduling action shots during “golden hour,” which is one to two hours after sunrise or before sunset. During this time, the soft light enhances the dog’s features and adds warmth to the images. Position the dog to run toward the light, as this setup helps create a beautifully lit, sharply focused shot.
These images were captured at Golden Hour, just as the sun was setting at Lakeside Beach in Port Dalhousie.
2. Natural Props for Unique Poses
Natural props like logs, large rocks, and tree stumps add character to portraits, giving dogs a place to pose or rest. Other structures can act as frames for creative composition. For instance, archways formed by tree branches or stone doorways can add depth and style, creating a frame-within-a-frame effect that elevates the portrait. These elements make the scene visually engaging and help draw the viewer’s eye to the dog.
The top two images are the lovely Yoda & Molly respectively. These images were shot at Dundas Valley Conservation area. This location is known for its trails, forests, and lovely natural frames.
The first 3 images are Kasia and Frankie roo photographed at Cherry Hill Gate by RGB. This location has so much variety and is ideal for woodland and scenic portraits. Oh and there are some gorgeous graffiti walls there too! The last two images are gorgeous Ginger and handsome Riley photographed at Decew Falls.
3. Soft Backlighting and Bokeh for a Dreamy Look
Soft, natural light filtered through trees or bushes provides beautiful backlighting and bokeh effects. This type of lighting enhances a dog’s fur and adds a soft rim of light, creating separation between the subject and the background. To get the best results, I look for areas with ample greenery or foliage that can filter sunlight, especially during golden hour.
The top image is the cutie pie Ari photographed at Dufferin Island in Niagara Falls. It is a great spot for filtering light in order to get that beautiful soft rim light and delicious bokeh . It is a lovely wooded area with water features ideal for photos and walking and exploring with your pup.
The second image is Sami the St. Bernard photographed at Balls Falls Ontario. As you can see Sami has some wonderful soft rim light and well as gorgeous bokeh surrounding her. Balls Falls has two Waterfalls, large expansive open space for great action photos, and plenty of barns and other interesting buildings to be used for great backdrops. Its definitely a favourite of mine. The final image is Finlay and Oliver photographed at Balls Falls also.
The 3rd image is Kasia photographed at Cherry Hill Gate by RGB. We found and mobile log to prop her up for this portrait. The late afternoon sun was nicely filtered by plenty of greenery. Note: propping dogs up on things helps to keep them in place.
4. Water for Playful and Reflective Shots
If the dog enjoys water, lakes, rivers, or streams can be fantastic locations for action shots or serene portraits. These settings add a dynamic element to the photos, capturing splashes and reflections, which can be both fun and striking. Water settings are especially great for showcasing a dog’s playful side.
Sami is the top image photographed at Balls Falls. Nellie the Duck Tolling Retriever is at Lakeside Park in Port Dalhousie.
5. Long Grass or Foliage for Depth and Focus
For portraits with a shallow depth of field, I seek locations with tall grass or other textured foliage. This type of setting allows me to place the dog in a way that brings only the subject into sharp focus, leaving the foreground and background softly blurred. This technique helps create an intimate, focused image that highlights the dog while adding depth.
The top image is taken at Balls Falls at the top waterfall. The two beauties are Hachi & Ookii. We photographed them in the Fall in late afternoon and used bits of foliage to frame them. The next image is Bella also photographed at Balls Falls. And the last image is beautiful Jo Jo photographed at Lakeside Beach park in Port Dalhousie.
6. Top Dog Photography Locations in Niagara
Some of my favorite locations for pet photography in Niagara include:
- Balls Falls – Known for its scenic trails and diverse backdrops.
- Decew Falls – Offers stunning natural settings with waterfalls.
- Dufferin Islands – A secluded spot with water features and wooded areas.
- Cherry Hill Gate (near RGB) – Ideal for woodland and scenic portraits.
- Dundas Valley Conservation Area – Known for its trails, forests, and lovely natural frames.
- Port Dalhousie Lakeside Park – A classic for lakeside and sunset portraits.
Extra Tips for a Successful Pet Photography Session
In every session, I ensure plenty of breaks for the dog to rest, recharge, and stay engaged. I always bring a few essentials with me, such as water, high value treats ( meaning treats they don’t normally get), toys, and of course noise makers. Also important to remember to set the shot up and be ready to take the shot quickly. Dogs don’t like to hang around they bore quite quickly and this will be evident in your images if you aren’t prepared. Also when using treats, start with the regular treats and progress to higher value ones as needed. The same goes for noises, it’s best to try to make simple quieter noises ( using your voice) to start and progress as needed to your duck callers etc. My gear bag includes lenses suited for both action and portrait shots, as well as equipment to handle various lighting conditions if needed. Mainly I use my Canon RF 70-200 2.8 lens and my 24-70. My absolute favourite is my prime 135mm lens. It’s absolutely dreamy ( refer to the images of Stella and Kasia at Lakeside Beach Park).
Whether we’re aiming for action-packed images or tranquil portraits, choosing the right location makes all the difference in capturing your dog’s unique personality. If you’re considering a dog photography session in the Niagara area, these locations provide incredible backdrops for unforgettable images.
And if you prefer to leave the photography to a professional pet photographer you can always connect with me Two Saints Photography to book your session today!
Have fun!!! And your dog will have fun too!
