A Surprise Dog Photoshoot: The Perfect Birthday Gift for Dog Lovers / by Holly Hildreth

Professional pet photography of two small dogs in a field of yellow wildflowers in Hilliard, Ohio

Little Potato and Mr. Waffles were the stars of a recent surprise gift that any dog lover would love to receive! Their dad had the brilliant idea to organize a secret pet photo shoot for his wife’s birthday—a thoughtful and meaningful way to celebrate their love for their furry family members. What better gift for a dog mom than beautifully-captured pet portraits?

Action shot of a small dog walking toward the camera during a professional pet photography session in Columbus, Ohio

We kept everything hush-hush by planning the photo shoot at Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio, just a block from their home. It was the perfect cover—a walk in the park was nothing out of the ordinary, so nobody would suspect we were secretly having a photo shoot!

Two dogs by a covered bridge at Homestead MetroPark in Columbus, Ohio, during a professional pet photography session

I had never been to this park before, but wow—what a hidden gem for photos! Between the fields of wildflowers, the old train station, covered bridge, Ohio bicentennial barn, and the pond, we found so many unique spots to capture a variety of images. This was one of those places I can’t wait to return to for more dog photography sessions (in fact I loved it so much I brought one of my own dogs here to do a photo shoot for myself!)

Two small dogs pose in front of a barn in Columbus, Ohio, with an Ohio Bicentennial mural painted on it, during a pet photography session at twilight. There is a little sliver of the moon above the barn

Why a Pet Photoshoot is the Ultimate Gift for Dog Lovers

Yorkiepoo dog sitting on the step of a blue train car at Homestead Metro Park in Hilliard, Ohio, during a professional dog photo shoot

One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a pet photographer in Columbus, Ohio, is creating these lasting memories for families. Dogs bring so much joy and love into our lives, and a surprise pet photoshoot like this is a perfect way to celebrate that. Plus, giving the gift of professional pet photography is a gift that lasts forever. Whether you’re planning a dog birthday photoshoot, a gift for a dog mom, or simply want to surprise a loved one with a heartfelt present, a professional dog photoshoot is a unique and thoughtful way to go.

If you’re looking for hi-resolution digital files, canvas print wall art for your home, or a beautiful album showcasing all the images, there are countless ways to enjoy the photos from your session.

Two small mixed breed dogs getting their photo taken during a professional pet photography session in a field of wildflowers at sunset in Ohio

Not sure what type of pet photography session would be best to give as a gift? We can also do a gift certificate for a photo shoot! That way the recipient can decide whether they’d like their photo session to be of just their dogs or they can choose to be in the photos with their dogs as well for a Pet and Family photo shoot.

Professional pet photography session of two small dogs beside a pond at sunset in Columbus, Ohio

Ready to surprise the dog-lover in your life with a unique birthday or anniversary gift? Contact Me today to get started!