Dog Portrait Photography and Natural Pet Photos

Every dog portrait I create is designed to celebrate your beloved pets and transform your favourite photos into meaningful artwork that captures personality, connection, and joy. Whether it’s custom dog portraits of your energetic furry friend, thoughtful pet portraits of a beloved companion, or a timeless piece of art to honour a dog or even a cat during the grieving process, each session in Hampshire is carefully tailored to suit your style and your home.

Looking for a Meaningful Christmas Gift?

Julie booked a portrait shoot as a Christmas present for her husband and son, featuring their three dogs: Skipper the Lab, Dottie the black working cocker, and Ralph the Springer. We created the images in the New Forest, where she lives, capturing them in a setting that feels like home. Photographing dogs always comes with its challenges - they move! And darker coats, especially black ones, absorb the light, so careful, considered lighting is essential to bring out detail and expression. The result is a beautiful piece of personal wall art and a truly meaningful gift. Sessions can take place at home or in natural environments such as forests, beaches, and other favourite outdoor locations.

Does Your Pet’s Personality Deserve the Spotlight?

I know your furry friend is family. Whether it’s a dog who thinks they’re human, a cat with more sass than a Hollywood A-lister, or a horse with character for days, their individuality shows up in every tail wag, ear twitch, and cheeky head tilt. That’s what I aim to capture—your pet's individuality.

Dog portraitists study the dog's unique traits and quirks to highlight features such as the eyes, ensuring each portrait reflects what makes your pet truly special.

I take time to understand your pet’s personality so I can create images that make you smile every single time you walk past them on your wall.

Where Should Your Dog Be Photographed?

Some pets thrive in my studio. Others are happiest in their natural environment—forests, beaches, fields, or at home on their favourite sofa. Choosing the right location and course for your outdoor dog portrait session is essential, as a scenic and convenient setting enhances the quality of the images. I’m happy to work wherever your companion feels relaxed and truly themselves.

Dog portraits often feature the subject in dynamic environments, such as parks or beaches, and may use props like balls or toys to capture engaging and authentic moments.

When they’re comfortable, their personality shines.

What Types of Custom Artwork Can You Choose From?

Every pet has a story, and every family has a unique bond with their beloved companion. That’s why I offer a wide range of custom pet portraits designed to celebrate your furry friend’s individuality—whether you share your home with a dog, cat, horse, or any other animal that’s claimed a special place in your heart.

My custom dog portraits are crafted with care, using your favourite photos and a close dialog to ensure every detail—right down to the glint in their eye or the wag of their tail—is captured with authenticity. But it doesn’t stop at dogs. I create custom pet portraits for cats, horses, and all manner of animals, each one tailored to reflect their unique charm and personality.

For those who want something truly one-of-a-kind, I offer both hand-painted and digitally created artwork, so you can choose the style that best suits your home and your pet’s character. Whether you envision your best friend in a classic portrait, a playful outdoor scene, or a setting that captures their favourite spot in the garden, I have the creativity and experience to bring your vision to life.

If you’re looking to celebrate the memory of a pet who’s crossed the rainbow bridge, a custom portrait can be a brilliant way to honour their legacy and keep their spirit alive in your home. Many pet owners find comfort and joy in having a beautiful piece of art that captures the essence of their beloved companion.

To make the experience even more special, I offer a private online gallery where you can view your images and select your favourites. Each portrait is printed on high-quality stock, with a range of framing options to suit your style and space—ready to hang and enjoy for years to come.

Gift vouchers are also available, making it easy to share the joy of custom pet portraits with friends and family. Whether you’re treating yourself or searching for the perfect gift, you’ll find a range of options to suit every occasion.

From Hampshire to the rest of the UK, I take pride in creating amazing, tailored artwork that celebrates the joy pets bring to our lives. Browse the gallery, discover the possibilities, and let’s create something lovely together—because every furry friend deserves to be celebrated in art, forever.

Searching for the Perfect Gift?

If you’re stuck for gift ideas for someone who “has everything,” a pet portrait session is gold. Birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s Day (because pets absolutely count as children), or as a meaningful gift for someone grieving a beloved companion—these portraits become precious memories.

I offer gift vouchers for exactly this reason. It’s thoughtful, personal, and guaranteed to mean the world.

What Happens During the Process?

First, we chat. I want to know what you’re envisioning. Action shots mid-leap through autumn leaves? A classic portrait? The whole pack together? The process of commissioning a custom dog portrait typically involves providing a high-resolution photograph of your pet, as high-quality prints require high-resolution images to ensure the best results.

Then comes the shoot. I bring the professional camera, experience, and probably too many treats. Capturing a great dog portrait requires patience, preparation, and perspective, while keeping the experience enjoyable for your pet. I recommend getting down to your dog’s eye level and using natural light for the best portraits—shooting from the dog's eye level creates a more intimate and engaging portrait. The dog's eyes should be the sharpest part of the photo, ideally with a catchlight to enhance expressiveness. Using natural light instead of direct flash avoids startling your dog and ensures flattering lighting conditions. I also use burst mode on the camera to increase the chances of capturing the perfect moment. High-value treats and praise are used throughout to reward your dog’s cooperation and create a positive experience. You bring your incredible animals and their personalities.

Afterwards, you’ll view your gallery and choose your favourites (fair warning: it won’t be easy). From there, I create your finished artwork—beautifully printed portraits, framed statement pieces, or digital images ready for display. For those interested in the creative process, I also share behind-the-scenes scenes and insights into how each pet portrait comes to life.

What Can You Expect From Me?

Based here in Hampshire and working across the UK, I approach every session with care, creativity, and patience. Your pets have their own quirks and personalities, and they deserve to be photographed with thought and skill.

I capture personality.
I capture connection.
I capture the essence of why they mean so much to you.

Life moves quickly, and our pets share a chapter of it with us that feels far too short. A beautiful portrait keeps that chapter alive in your home for years to come.

Ready to Book Your Pet’s Close-Up?

Let’s capture your best friend’s charm, frame it beautifully, and give it the place on your wall it deserves.

Booking a dog portrait session typically involves contacting me to discuss details and availability. Please note, there may be a waiting list for dog portrait sessions, especially during peak seasons like Christmas. Throughout the creative process, I provide regular updates to keep you involved and ensure your vision is brought to life.

Get in touch to book your custom pet portrait session with Simon John Photography. Based in Hampshire, serving pet owners across the region.

Gift vouchers available. Because every furry friend deserves their moment in the spotlight.