Your Puppy's First Year Starts Here: Celebrate with a photoshoot
The first part of the year has been puppy heaven for me! I have photographed so many dogs under a year old, and I’m not going to lie, it has me super broody to bring home a sibling for Theo.
The moment you bring a puppy home, something shifts. There's joy in the chaos, warmth in the mess, and love in every sleepy cuddle. Those early morning wake-ups and tiny accidents on the carpet are balanced by heart-melting moments that make it all worthwhile.
But puppyhood moves fast. Faster than most new pet parents realize. Those tiny paws will soon be fully grown, that baby-soft fur will change, and that adorable awkwardness will transform into confident adulthood. Weeks blur into months, and you're wondering where your little one went before you know it.
A Day to Honour the Bond Between You and Your Pup
As I’m writing this, it’s National Puppy Day. National Puppy Day is more than just a sweet celebration; it's a timely reminder to slow down and preserve these fleeting moments while they're still unfolding before your eyes.
My mission is simple yet profound: to help you honour your dog's first year through meaningful, ethical photography sessions that tell their story. Gently, lovingly, and at their pace. Every puppy deserves to be seen, celebrated, and remembered exactly as they are in these precious early days.
National Puppy Day isn't just an excuse to post cute photos (though I love that too). It's about acknowledging the magic of this stage. The tiny wiggles, curious sniffs, awkward sits, and unfiltered affection that only a puppy can give.
It's a day to pause and recognize how quickly this chapter passes. To celebrate not just your puppy's cuteness, but the beginning of a relationship that will shape your life for years to come. A day to say, "You've changed my life, little one," and to celebrate what's to come.
As a dedicated dog photographer, I've seen countless families wish they'd captured more of those early days. National Puppy Day offers the perfect reminder to ensure these memories aren't lost to time.
Ready to book your puppy's first professional photoshoot? Contact me today to find out more before these precious weeks slip away.
From Puppyhood to Lifelong Companion: The Blink-of-an-Eye Journey
Ask any dog parent, and they'll tell you the same story: one moment, their puppy was staring at them with wide, unsure eyes, and the next, they're a confident companion, fully grown into their paws and personality.
That transformation happens in what feels like seconds. The gangly teenage phase with paws too big for their body? Gone in a flash. The way they used to tilt their head when confused? Changed before you even thought to capture it.
A puppy photography session gives you tangible memories of those in-between moments before they're gone. It freezes time in a way your smartphone simply can't, creating images with enough detail and emotion to transport you back to these days, even decades later.
When clients return for their puppy's one-year photoshoot, they're always astonished at the difference from those first images. "I would have forgotten exactly how tiny he was," they often say, grateful to have preserved what memory alone couldn't hold.
Every puppy has a spark. A unique essence that makes them who they are. For some, it's a mischievous tilt of the head. For others, it's a sweet little stare that melts your heart or a tail that never stops wagging, even when they're fast asleep.
My job isn't to force your puppy into cute poses or make them perform tricks. Instead, I observe, connect, and capture who they truly are. Whether they're timid or bold, sleepy or playful, calm or chaotic, each puppy gets the time, space, and compassion to simply be themselves.
This approach results in images that feel authentic and alive, not stiff or manufactured. Years later, when you look at these photos, you won't just see what your puppy looked like; you'll remember exactly who they were at this magical stage.
Don't miss capturing these milestone moments. Book your First Year Celebration package today.
Why Timing Is Everything: The Best Stages to Photograph Your Puppy
I designed my "First Year Celebration" package to mark three pivotal stages of growth, each offering something unique and irreplaceable:
Session 1: Those brand-new days (8-16 weeks). When everything is wide-eyed wonder and wobbly legs. This is when your puppy is at their smallest and most baby-like, full of innocence and discovering the world for the first time.
Session 2: Around 6 months. The adolescent stage when personality is blooming, training is progressing, and your bond is growing stronger by the day. They're not quite puppies anymore but not yet adults, existing in that perfect in-between stage.
Session 3: At 12 months. Your puppy is all grown up (at least on the outside). Their adult appearance has emerged, their confidence has developed, and your first year together has formed a foundation for a lifetime of companionship.
Together, these three sessions tell the full story: from little to loyal, from tiny newcomer to established family member. It's a visual journey you'll treasure forever, especially during the years when puppyhood feels like a distant memory.
Common Puppy Photography Myths (and Why You Can Ignore Them)
Many puppy parents hesitate to book professional photos because they believe certain myths about what their puppy "should" be able to do. Let's throw out a few of these misconceptions:
"They're too wild to sit still." Great. We'll capture that energy! Some of the most joyful, authentic images come from puppies being their exuberant selves. That boundless enthusiasm is part of what makes this stage so special.
"They need to know commands first." Absolutely not. I work ethically and consensually, with rewards, breaks, and zero pressure. We'll follow your puppy's lead, using gentle encouragement rather than strict commands, keeping the experience positive for everyone.
"They won't pose like the dogs I see in your portfolio." Your puppy will be themselves, and that's infinitely more valuable than a stiff, unnatural pose. And guess what? Professionals may call all the dogs in my portfolio “not trained.”
They’re growing every day. Let’s make sure you remember just how little they once were. Get in touch to start planning your puppy’s first session.
Introducing my "First Year Celebration" Puppy Packages
What's Included: A Year of Milestone Moments
Your First Year Celebration package includes:
Three bespoke photography sessions throughout your puppy's first year, strategically timed to capture key developmental stages.
A 12×10" fine art matted print after each session, carefully selected by you to showcase your puppy's personality at that stage.
Professional guidance on selecting complementary images that tell your puppy's story across all three sessions.
Access to beautifully curated artwork, framing, and print options designed specifically for pet photography (there is never any pressure from me to spend.)
A relaxed, dog-led experience built on trust, understanding, and positive reinforcement.
Digital files of your selected & purchased images for sharing with friends and family.
Your puppy's pace and preferences shape each session, so they never feel rushed or overwhelmed. We take breaks when needed, follow their curiosity, and adapt to their energy level on the day.
Investment: Preserving Memories That Last a Lifetime
The First Year Celebration package starts at £365, which includes all three sessions (valued at £447 when booked separately). This represents substantial savings while ensuring consistent quality and style throughout your puppy's first-year story.
Additional prints, wall art, and albums are priced separately and available for purchase after each milestone session. Most clients invest between £595 and £1,795 for their complete puppy photography experience, including digital prints and physical artwork.
Payment plans are available to spread the cost throughout the year.
Your pup’s story is just beginning. Let’s capture the chapters you’ll never want to forget. Say hi to find out more.
How These Sessions Tell a Story, Not Just Snap a Picture
Each session is thoughtfully designed to reflect your unique story. How your puppy fits into your life, the mischief they bring, the joy they radiate, and the subtle ways your relationship evolves over that crucial first year.
Whether that's capturing them curled on your lap during those early bonding days, bounding across the park as they discover their confidence, or sitting proudly beside you as they approach their first birthday. I'm there to preserve the authentic moments that tell your shared story.
The progression across all three sessions creates a narrative greater than the sum of its parts. When displayed together, these images show how your puppy has grown, how your bond has deepened, and how they've found their place in your world.
Puppy-Approved inspiration and Keepsake Ideas
We'll keep things simple and soulful if you would like to include props. Focusing on elements that hold meaning rather than distracting from your puppy's natural charm. Think cosy blankets they love to snuggle in, favourite toys that show signs of enthusiastic play, a collar they'll soon grow out of, or even their first tiny harness.
These everyday items become powerful visual storytellers and cherished keepsakes when included thoughtfully in your images. The well-loved first favourite toy, missing an ear, or the first collar and tag that proudly names them as part of your family - these details speak volumes about your puppy's unique personality.
We might incorporate subtle markers of their growth for milestone sessions. Perhaps photographing them with the same toy in each session to highlight how they've grown or returning to the same location to show their changing relationship with familiar spaces.
Choosing a Location That Matches Your Puppy's Energy
Location matters, but not in the way most people think. The "perfect" setting is where your puppy feels comfortable and where meaningful interactions naturally occur.
We might shoot our first session in your home, where your puppy is most relaxed and where many of your day-to-day memories are made. Or in a local park where daily walks have created a sense of familiarity and joy. Some families choose a lake where their water-loving pup first discovered their joy when swimming, or a woodland trail that showcases their adventurous spirit.
From lush grass perfect for puppy zoomies to sunlit living rooms where morning cuddles happen, I'll guide you to a place that suits your pup's personality, and looks stunning in print. The best locations tell part of your story while providing beautiful, natural light for timeless images.
And if you would prefer a studio photography session, where the focus is fully on your puppy and their growth over the year, you can either visit me in Wimbledon, or I can bring my studio set-up to your own home (if space allows.)
Because puppyhood doesn’t last forever… but your photographs will. Reach out today to reserve your First Year Celebration session.
Preparing Your Puppy (and Yourself) for the Big Day
You don't need to train like it's Crufts or spend weeks preparing. The beauty of puppy photography lies in capturing authentic moments, not perfectly executed commands. A few simple preparations will help ensure a successful session:
Bring favourite treats, toys, and anything that might help your puppy feel comfortable and motivated.
Wear comfortable, neutral clothing that won't distract from your puppy in photos. If you'd like to be in some images, consider coordinating your outfit to complement your home décor or the outdoor setting.
Sessions are light-hearted and fun, with gentle direction and no pressure at all. I'll talk you through posing (yes, you can be in the photos, too!) and give your pup the time they need. Do they need to sniff everything first? Perfect. Do they need a cuddle break? Even better. Those natural interactions often make the most heartwarming images.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Each session typically lasts 60-90 minutes, allowing plenty of time for breaks, treats, and play. We never rush and always follow your puppy's lead. We'll adapt if they need more frequent breaks or a shorter overall session.
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That's completely normal and happens more often than not! Puppies have their own agenda, and I'm experienced in working with their energy, not against it. We'll take breaks when needed, use gentle encouragement, and capture the moments between the chaos.
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You'll see a carefully curated gallery within three weeks of your session. We'll then schedule your artwork consultation to select your favourites and discuss display options that suit your home and style.
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Absolutely! Family photos with your puppy are encouraged and included in your session. These images often become favourites as they show the budding relationship between your puppy and their human family members.
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Not at all! While earlier is better for capturing those tiny puppy days, we can adjust the timing of your three sessions to fit your puppy's current age. The most important thing is starting the journey, even if they're a bit older.
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Schedule a call or Whatsapp conversation with me for a no-obligation chat about your puppy photography dreams.
From tiny paws to lifelong memories. Mark these moments before they’re gone. Ready to start your own puppy photography adventure? Absolutely!
Booking Tips & What to Expect
Ready to begin celebrating your puppy's story? Booking is easy and straightforward. Here's what happens next:
We'll start with a discovery call to discuss your puppy’s personality, your vision for the sessions, and where you'd love to display your images in your home.
After each shoot, you'll be invited to an artwork consultation where you can select your favourite images and explore my luxury catalogue of products. Whether that's fine art framing, handcrafted albums, or a print box filled with memories. You will receive access to this catalogue before booking, and there is never any pressure from me to spend.
Between sessions, I'll check in occasionally to see how your puppy is growing and developing and offer tips for your upcoming shoots.
If this sounds good, it would be my absolute privilege to be the chosen photographer for you and your puppy.
Gift a Session: The Ultimate Present for a New Dog Parent
Do you know someone welcoming a puppy into their world? A First Year Celebration session makes a thoughtful, lasting gift they'll treasure forever.
Gift certificates are beautifully presented and can be customized with a personal message from you. Unlike toys that will be outgrown or treats that will be quickly forgotten, the gift of photography creates a legacy of memories that grow more valuable with each passing year.
Because They're Not Little Forever…
Years from now, when their muzzle starts to grey and their energy gently slows, you'll look back at these images and remember exactly how they used to be. The softness of their puppy coat, the silliness of their disproportionate paws, the intensity of their gaze when learning something new, and the beautiful bond that bloomed between you during those formative months.
Photography isn't just about how things look, it's about how they felt. The weight of a sleeping puppy on your chest, the excitement of them learning a new command, the way they leaned against your leg when uncertain. These feelings fade in memory but come rushing back when captured in thoughtful, authentic images.
Many clients tell me that their puppy's first-year photos become increasingly precious as time passes. What seems like a luxury now becomes an irreplaceable treasure when those puppy days are long gone.
Puppyhood is fleeting. But the love, the memories, the soul of that tiny being who bounded into your life and changed it forever? That deserves to be preserved, honoured, and celebrated.
Even if it’s with your phone, commit to documenting your journey together. Start your pup's story with intention and care. Create something meaningful that you'll treasure for decades to come; a visual legacy of your puppy's first year and the beautiful beginnings of a friendship like no other.
Ready to Begin?
Get in touch to book your First-Year Celebration photography session today. Because they're only little once, but your memories can last forever.
Looking for Heartfelt Dog Photography in London? Let's Capture Your Story.
If you've just welcomed a new puppy into your family — or if your beloved dog deserves a photoshoot as special as they are — I'd love to celebrate them with you. Whether you dream of a rural shoot in one of our green spaces, an urban session on our city’s streets, or a cosy studio shoot, I'll work with you to create images you'll treasure forever.
