Can my dog stay on leash during a photography session?
/Can My Dog Stay on Leash for a Photo Session? (Spoiler Alert: Yes, Absolutely!)
I get asked this question a lot—usually right after, “My dog’s a bit crazy, is that okay?” (Answer: Yes to that one, too.). Clients want to make sure that their dog is safe if they can’t be trusted off leash, but of course want to be assured that they will still get good pictures.
But let’s talk about leashes.
Short answer: Yes, your dog can absolutely stay on their leash for the entire photo session.
Long answer: Yes, and here’s why that’s totally okay—even encouraged!
In fact almost every dog I photograph is kept on a leash during his or her dog photography session. Keeping the dogs on leash not only keeps them safe, but also allows me to have the dogs in just the right place to capture the beautiful pictures you desire!
The Pros of Keeping Your Dog on Leash for Photographs:
1. Safety First, Style Second
We’re often photographing in parks, trails, or gardens where there are distractions, squirrels, other dogs… Keeping your dog on leash ensures they stay safe and nearby, especially if they’re not 100% on their recall (and really, which dog is when there’s a squirrel involved?).
2. The Magic of Photoshop
You know how magicians never reveal their secrets? Well, I’m about to break that rule.
If the leash is on and you're worried about how it’ll look in the final images—don’t be. I magically edit it out during post-processing. Your dog stays safe and your photos look leash-free. Win-win! 🎩✨
3. Your Dog Doesn’t Need to Be a Dog Model
Whether your pup knows all the tricks or thinks “sit” is just a polite suggestion, I can work with it. Having them on leash helps guide them gently into position and keeps things moving smoothly. Many dogs are accustomed to being on a leash during walks, making them more likely to stay in place and follow commands while on a photo shoot. Plus…I’ve got all kinds of tricks up my sleeve—and liver treats in my pocket.
4. Candid is Cute
Some of my favourite shots happen in between the "posed" ones. A goofy head tilt, a flying ear, a tongue-out moment of pure dog joy—and your dog can be leashed the whole time. It won’t show in the final image, but the personality will shine through.
5. It’s a Relaxed Session, Not a Dog Show
Sessions are laid-back, fun, and designed to feel like a walk in the park—because sometimes, that’s exactly what we’re doing! Your dog doesn't need to be perfect. Just being themselves (on leash!) is more than enough.
See how the magic of Photoshop works.
I thought it would be fun to share a few “before and after” examples with you!
These side-by-side images show exactly what I see straight out of the camera—leash and all—alongside the final edited version where the leash has been magically removed. ✨
It’s a great way to see how a simple leash can completely disappear, leaving you with natural, polished portraits of your dog looking their very best.
Meet Kyla
She’s a sweet and friendly Labrador cross, and for her photo session, we picked a beautiful spring field at Earl Bales Park in North York.
You’ll notice in the original image that her dad is standing just out of frame, holding her leash to keep her safe and close. And yes—of course I magically removed him too! 😉
Check out more of Kyla in this article all about photographing black dogs—packed with helpful ideas and inspiration, it’s super helpful if your pup is a dark-coated beauty.
I just loved this dog’s cute pose. He was a dog I photographed at the Etobicoke Humane Society. I decided to edit the photo and remove his leash. The photo is definitely enhanced without the leash.
Below are a couple of Skyler’s before and after from her pet photo shoot at the lovely James Gardens, Toronto
So yes, feel free to leash your dog their photo session. I encourage it. I expect it. And I’ll make sure the photos look amazing anyway.
Still worried? Just bring the leash—and I’ll bring the magic. 🐾📸
You can feel comfortable in booking a dog photography session in the Greater Toronto area, including Markham, Thornhill, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Etobicoke, The Beach, Scarborough, Mississauga, or Southeast Florida.
Take a look at Tracy Allard of Penny Whistle Photography , fetching portraits in Coppell and surrounding communities in the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex, for more on leash removal.
