Christmas Card

Dog and Owner Christmas Card Photo Shoot - Stevie by Holly Hildreth

A golden doodle puppy licks her person's face during a dog and owner photo shoot for their Christmas card.

A sweet candid moment of Stevie and her mom together during a Central Ohio Dog and Owner Photo shoot.

Christmas card portrait of a woman and her dog in colorful fall leaves in Ohio

A few moths back Stevie’s mom contacted me to set up a photo shoot for the Golden doodle’s 1st birthday. Here’s the link in case you missed that post: Dog Birthday Photo Shoot

We had such a blast during our time together at her summer session that Stevie’s mom decided to do another shoot to capture some fun dog and owner photos for their Christmas card. Although, I think Stevie misheard us and thought we were saying “funny Christmas card photos” instead.

From the moment Stevie arrived, she brought the energy. Instead of the calm, posed portrait vibes her mom might have envisioned, Stevie brought the comedy! Her signature kangaroo hops had her bouncing down the creek on two legs.

Funny action shot of a golden doodle dog hopping on two legs during a professional pet photography session in a creek in Columbus, Ohio
Funny pet photography of a golden doodle dog smiling at the camera while standing in fall leaves next to a creek in Ohio

Just look at that cheesy smile. You just KNOW she thought she was the star of the show! Of course, no photo shoot would be complete without some unexpected moments. For Stevie, it was the discovery of a pile of horse poo. Let’s just say she was absolutely enchanted by it. We had to work hard to redirect her attention (and keep her from getting too cozy with it), but her magnetic draw to it had us in stitches.

Unique dog and owner photo shoot pose idea showing a dog sitting next to her owner who is standing.
Dog and owner photoshoot at sunset in Columbus Ohio

Despite Stevie's antics—or perhaps because of them—we captured some truly beautiful moments. Her playful personality and the bond she shares with her mom really shone through. And honestly, isn’t that what a Christmas card photo should reflect? The love, laughter, and goofiness that makes every family unique.

Beautiful candid moment of a woman and her dog during their dog and owner photo shoot in central Ohio

Stevie, you’re an absolute goofball, and I love it. Thanks for making this pet and person photo shoot one to remember. I can’t wait to see how those Christmas cards turn out—horse poo and all!

A wide angle shot of a Golden doodle dog smiling at the camera with colorful sunset sky in the background

Thinking about a fall photo session with your own pup?
Whether your dog is a natural model or a certified goofball like Stevie, I’d love to help you capture their unique personality. Reach out today to book your session!

Cute Christmas card photo of a golden doodle wearing a holiday bow and sitting in a pile of orange leaves during a professional pet photography session in Ohio