If your camera roll explodes every December, you are in the right place. Some breeds naturally sparkle under twinkly lights and snowy backdrops, turning simple snapshots into frame worthy keepsakes. You will find breeds with expressive faces, glamorous coats, and that undeniable festive charm. Get ready to plan outfits, props, and poses that make friends ask how you pulled off such magical holiday photos.
Siberian Husky
The Husky’s icy eyes and plush coat turn any snowy yard into a postcard. Pair a simple red scarf with fresh powder and you instantly get cinematic contrast. Keep movement light and playful so you capture that spirited grin while snowflakes drift.
Use side lighting during golden hour to make the coat look dimensional without harsh shadows. A wide aperture creates dreamy bokeh from string lights on nearby pines. You can squat low and track their trot for dynamic angles.
Keep props minimal to prevent distraction from their striking gaze and mask markings. Quick bursts in continuous mode freeze flying snow. Reward with treats between takes so the energy stays joyful and authentic.
St. Bernard
St. Bernards radiate cozy mountain lodge vibes, especially beside a wreath topped cabin or glowing window. Their massive, gentle face fills the frame with heart. Add a classic mini barrel collar and a tasteful plaid blanket to nail timeless Alpine cheer.
Shoot at eye level to honor their scale and softness. Soft snow or light flurries create texture without chaos. Use warm white lights behind them for a welcoming halo that balances winter’s cool tones.
Keep commands calm and steady, then reward frequently to maintain that serene gaze. A slightly longer focal length compresses background lights into glowing orbs. You will walk away with photos that feel like a fireside toast captured outdoors.
Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers bring cheerful warmth to every holiday frame. That sunlit coat glows under tree lights, and their friendly smile sells the moment. A red velvet bow on the collar gives instant festivity without overdoing props.
Shoot indoors with soft lamps behind to rim light their fur. Place them a few feet from the tree so ornaments blur into creamy bokeh. Gentle squeakers or a favorite word get that trademark head tilt.
Keep sessions short so excitement stays charming rather than chaotic. Reward calm sits between captures. You can finish with a close portrait that spotlights the eyes, then a wider shot showing the full cozy scene.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Berners look regal in snow, their tri color coats popping against evergreen backdrops. A red cable knit scarf elevates the look while staying classic. Let them trot a few steps to fluff the coat and spark a proud, engaged expression.
Choose overcast light or soft evening glow to avoid glare on dark fur. Position evergreens at a distance to build layers and depth. A medium telephoto lens keeps the dog sharp while backgrounds melt softly.
Keep cues positive and use low, calm tones. Short bursts capture snow spray and that gentle smile. You will end up with portraits that feel like holiday storybook covers, equal parts rugged and heartwarming.
Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles deliver sleek, editorial holiday portraits. Their sculpted curls and long lines handle minimalism beautifully. Try a satin ribbon collar and metallic ornaments for a luxe vibe that still feels festive.
Use a clean white or charcoal backdrop to let their silhouette shine. Softbox lighting from the side creates shape without harsh hot spots. Cue a tall, gentle sit to emphasize that elegant neck and head carriage.
Keep color palettes tight, like gold and white or red and black. A lint roller and quick coat fluff keep the finish pristine. You can capture a modern card photo that looks like it came from a boutique studio.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers turn any room into a charming holiday vignette. Those expressive eyes gleam beside a fireplace framed with stockings. A velvet ribbon around the neck adds gentle polish without distracting from their sweetness.
Use warm ambient light and a wide aperture for a dreamy, intimate feel. Place them on a tufted chair or cushy ottoman to elevate the pose. Soft squeaks create adorable ear flicks and head tilts.
Keep sessions short and comfortable, with treats ready for quick rewards. Avoid cluttered decor so the dog remains the star. You will capture photos that feel nostalgic, tender, and perfectly card worthy.
Samoyed
Samoyeds are essentially walking snow clouds with permanent smiles. In bright snow, their white coat glows and feels magical. An emerald green scarf adds a crisp pop that reads festive without clutter.
Expose slightly to the right to hold detail in the whites. Shoot during clear daylight for sparkling highlights, then add distant lights for bokeh if near houses. Keep the dog moving gently for buoyant, joyful expressions.
Brush the coat beforehand to avoid mats that flatten on camera. Use fast shutter speeds to freeze bounding steps and flying powder. You will end with photos that feel airy, clean, and brilliantly cheerful.
Irish Setter
Irish Setters glow like polished mahogany under sunrise. That glossy coat and athletic stride make dynamic holiday frames outdoors. A red plaid bandana underscores the season while complementing their warm tones.
Photograph during the golden window for luminous highlights and gentle shadows. Pan slightly as they run to blur the background while keeping eyes sharp. Place frosty grasses in the foreground for sparkle and depth.
Use lots of praise so recall remains stellar between takes. Limit props to keep the look classic and uncluttered. You will capture celebratory action shots that still feel elegant and timeless.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians bring graphic punch to holiday photos. Their black spots against festive reds and whites are instant design. Try a candy cane striped backdrop with a red bow tie for crisp, playful energy.
Use even, bright lighting to keep whites clean and blacks defined. A slightly higher shutter speed controls excited wiggles. Tilt the camera subtly for a dynamic diagonal composition that feels modern.
Keep props simple since patterns are already bold. Sprinkle paper snow or confetti for motion and fun, then capture mid air bursts. You will create a cheerful card that looks like a holiday poster.
Beagle
Beagles deliver storybook curiosity that shines in neighborhood holiday scenes. A knit sweater keeps the vibe homey and warm. Set them by a garland wrapped doorway with lanterns for a welcoming glow.
Shoot at blue hour to mix cool sky with warm porch lights. Keep the leash on and edit it out later if needed for safety. A squeak or soft whistle brings that signature inquisitive head tilt.
Frame slightly wide to include architecture while keeping eyes sharp. Reward frequently since scents may distract. You will capture cozy, relatable images that feel like a walk home for cocoa.
Corgi
Corgis pack big charm into a small frame, perfect for holiday cards. Their grins and perky ears read joyful from any angle. A festive bandana and a string light lined path set the scene instantly.
Shoot low to make those short legs heroic and adorable. Golden hour adds warmth that flatters red and sable coats. Use a gentle squeaker for forward ears, then click during the perk.
Keep sessions brisk so enthusiasm stays high. Offer quick treats to maintain sits between passing distractions. You will get irresistible photos that make everyone smile the second they open your card.
French Bulldog
Frenchies have expressive faces that deliver instant personality. A snug sweater and red knit beanie bring quirky holiday charm. Keep the background neutral and let twinkle lights blur into bokeh for clean, stylish frames.
Use soft, diffused light to flatter their features and reduce harsh shadows. Focus on the eyes and keep the composition tight for impact. Gentle squeaks or tiny treats held near the lens help engagement.
Limit session time for comfort and include quick breaks. Avoid overheating under lights by keeping the room cool. You will end up with chic, funny portraits that feel delightfully gift worthy.
Dachshund
Dachshunds make hilarious and adorable holiday subjects. A wrapped gift box creates a playful reveal moment as they peek out. Keep the set simple with peppermint props and a clean floor to highlight their long silhouette.
Use side softbox lighting to emphasize texture and shape without glare. Capture from slightly above for big eyes and a charming perspective. Treats placed inside the box help hold attention during quick bursts.
Keep sessions short since small dogs tire fast. Be mindful of tape and ribbons so everything is safe. You will snag whimsical images that look like a holiday surprise mid unwrapping.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians bring glittery glamour in a tiny package. Their fluffy coats look luxurious against high key backdrops and faux snow. Add a small bow or crown for playful elegance without overloading the scene.
Use bright, even light to keep the fur airy and clean. Place reflective ornaments behind for glitter bokeh. Shoot close to showcase expressive eyes and a whimsical smile.
Keep props lightweight so dogs move comfortably. Short, positive sessions maintain perky energy for perfect expressions. You will create sparkling portraits that feel like little holiday jewels.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus photograph like little aristocrats with their flowing coats. A velvet cushion and pearl collar set an elegant holiday tone. Place them near a softly lit tree so the background glows warmly.
Brush the face hair neatly and keep eyes visible for connection. Use candlelike bulbs or warm LEDs for a flattering tint. A moderate aperture keeps features sharp while softening the room.
Keep patience high and rewards frequent to maintain a calm sit. Limit heavy props so the dog remains comfortable. You will finish with refined portraits that feel classic, gentle, and deeply festive.