Autumn Pet Photography Session in Central Ohio - Murphy and Mella / November 8, 2024 by Holly Hildreth

Colorful dog photography of a dachshund wearing a bowtie with fall trees in the background, during a pet photo shoot in Columbus, Ohio — Murphy the Dachshund during his professional dog photography session in central Ohio

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, it's the perfect time for a professional pet photography session in Ohio. I recently had the absolute pleasure of capturing two adorable dogs, Murphy the dachshund, and Mella the mini golden doodle, at one of my all-time favorite spots in Ohio. Let me take you behind the scenes of this memorable fall photo shoot and show you why autumn is one of the best seasons for pet photography in Ohio!

Meet Murphy the Dachshund and Mella the Mini Golden Doodle

Dramatically-lit professional pet photography of two dogs standing in colorful fall leaves in a forest at sunset. The dogs are a mini golden doodle and a dachshund, as photographed by Columbus Ohio dog photographer Holly Hildreth

Murphy and Mella are quite the dynamic duo. Murphy, a lively dachshund brings a classic charm to every photo. His short legs and long body make him an absolute joy to photograph (I am a total sucker for short-legged dogs). Mella, is a fluffy mini golden doodle with an irresistibly sweet face. Her soft, wavy fur and playful personality made for the perfect contrast against the rich fall backdrop.

Why Fall is the Best Time for Pet Photography in Ohio

The vibrant fall colors are a photographer's dream, especially when it comes to outdoor pet photo session. I have a favorite hidden gem photo shoot location here in central Ohio that never disappoints, and that’s exactly where we did Murphy and Mella’s photo shoot. I love how the colorful fall leaves carpet the creek bed every fall, creating a natural, picture-perfect setting. I often find myself wishing the fall season would last all year long, as it provides the most stunning backdrop for capturing the unique personalities of pets.

Dachshund dog poses for a professional pet photo shoot in Columbus, Ohio in the fall

Funny photo of a golden doodle dog smiling at the camera during a professional pet photography session in Columbus Ohio

Tips for a Successful Fall Pet Photo Shoot

If you're considering a professional pet photography session in Ohio this fall, here are a few tips to make the most of it:

Fall scene of a dachshund dog wearing a bowtie and standing fall leaves with a creek and appalachian mountains in the background. Professional dog photo shoot in central Ohio

Sweet moment during a dog and owner photo shoot with a dachshund licking his person's face during while she smiles — Puppy kisses: A sweet candid moment during this dog and owner photo shoot

Choose the Right Location: There are several local parks and wooded trails in the Central Ohio area that have great fall color. Whether you want to have your dog’s photo shoot at Hocking Hills, Highbanks Metro Park, Hoover Reservoir, or anywhere in between, chatting with your dog photographer about location is a great first step to making sure you have an incredible and memorable pet photography experience.
Dress for the Season: Not just for the humans—consider bringing a cute bandana or seasonal accessory for your pup. It can add a nice touch of personality to the photos and make them feel more festive. For This photo shoot, Murphy’s owner dressed him in a dapper bowtie collar.
Time It Right: The best time for a fall photo shoot is during the "golden hour," shortly after sunrise or just before sunset. The soft, warm light enhances the colors of the leaves and adds a magical glow to the photos.
Let Your Pets Be Themselves: The most captivating pet photos come from candid moments. Let your dogs explore, play, and show their true personalities. It’s in these unscripted moments that we capture their unique spirit.

Why book a professional photo shoot for you and your dog

Professional pet portrait of a doodle dog sitting in front of a field at sunset in ohio

Booking a professional pet photographer can make all the difference in capturing those perfect moments with your furry friend. As an experienced pet photographer, I know how to work with all kinds of dogs of all ages, personalities, and abilities. It’s incredibly important to me that I am able to give you and your dog a stress-free and enjoyable photo shoot experience. Whether it's a solo dog session, two best friends like Murphy and Mella, or capturing the beautiful bond between dog and owner, the results are timeless images that you can cherish for a lifetime.

With the fall season in full swing, now is the perfect time to schedule your pet photography session in Columbus, Ohio. The stunning backdrop of autumn leaves combined with the playful energy of your pets will result in photos that are not only beautiful but also full of heart and personality.

Dawes Arboretum Engagement Photo Shoot with a Couple and their Dog | Ohio Professional Pet Photographer / August 26, 2024 by Holly Hildreth

A beautiful young couple crouch down in a Japanese garden to pet their dog during their engagement photo shoot at Dawes Arboretum in Newark. Photographed by Central Ohio Dog Photographer Holly Hildreth — A quiet moment of dog and owners together during a photoshoot at Newark, Ohio’s Dawe’s Arboretum

Your engagement photos should reflect your love story and the excitement of this new chapter together. Since your dog is a key part of your story, including them in your engagement photos just makes sense! It adds a layer of warmth and authenticity that’s hard to replicate, making the photos uniquely you.

An engaged couple and their dog sitting on a bridge over a lake at Dawes Arboretum in Newark, Ohio. The lighting is dramatic with dark blue sky and vibrant colors, which is the signature style of professional dog photographer Holly Hildreth

One reason why your dog should be in your engagement pictures is because they make the experience so much more fun! There is much less pressure on you when your dog is involved, as dogs have a way of bringing out the most authentic emotions in us. These unscripted moments lead to amazing candid photos that show genuine smiles and expressions.

During this photo shoot, scruffy little Mason here made sure both his dog-parents were having a good time while we shot. He was a little clown and would sneak in to steal puppy kisses. This always ended up in all of us laughing at his goofy antics. My favorite face licking photo is below of Mason and his mom together surrounded by wildflowers.

Portrait of a dog and owner. The woman is smiling and laughing as her scruffy dog licks her face. She is laying in a field of wildflowers in front of a lake during a dog photo shoot at Dawe's Arboretum in Newark, Ohio.

One important factor in making your engagement photos truly special is to incorporate a location that you, your partner, and your dog all enjoy. For this session the couple chose to be photographed at the amazingly beautiful Dawe’s Arboretum in Newark, Ohio. There were so many gorgeous spots to photograph in this park, but we spent a majority of our session shooting around the Japanese garden area. It was super hot, so the large shade trees of the garden gave us some relief from the scorching summer sun.

This was my first time visiting Dawe’s Arboretum, and I loved how dog-friendly it is! Most botanical garden type parks in the Columbus area do not allow dogs. So it was a nice breath of fresh air to discover that Dawe’s encourages people to visit with their dogs. I know I’m excited to go back with my own dogs soon!

In the end, your engagement photos will not only document this big life milestone, but also capture the love and joy that your dog brings into your life. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your love story, one that includes all the members of your family—furry ones included.