Eddie's First Portraits | A Home Puppy Photoshoot in Staffordshire

Nine-week-old Border Collie puppy portrait

There is something incredibly special about photographing a puppy during those first few weeks at home.

Everything is new. Their paws still seem far too big for their body, their ears haven't quite decided what they're doing, and every expression seems full of curiosity. Before you know it, those tiny bundles of fluff have grown into adventurous teenagers, and then into adult dogs.

When Eddie's human dad got in touch, he wanted to arrange something rather lovely, a surprise puppy photoshoot for his wife.

At just nine or ten weeks old, Eddie wasn't yet able to head out on countryside adventures. Like many puppies, he was still waiting to complete his vaccinations before exploring the world beyond the garden.

That certainly didn't stop us.

Instead, we created a relaxed little portrait session at home, making the most of the conservatory and garden. Home is often where puppies feel happiest and most confident, allowing them to play, explore and simply be themselves.

Of course, Eddie had one extra accessory that stole everyone's hearts.

His proud human dad had bought him the sweetest little tie and Eddie wore it with all the confidence in the world. It added such a fun touch to the session and perfectly captured the excitement of welcoming a new family member home.

The wonderful thing about photographing puppies is that you don't need them to sit perfectly or perform endless commands. Their personality shines through naturally. A curious head tilt, a playful look into the camera or even a little nap all become memories worth keeping.

Looking back at Eddie's portraits today is a lovely reminder of just how quickly puppies change. Those tiny faces never stay tiny for long.

If you've recently welcomed a puppy into your family, don't feel you have to wait until they're old enough for countryside walks before arranging a session. Some of the most meaningful portraits can be created right where their story begins—at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my puppy have a photoshoot before they're fully vaccinated?

Absolutely. If your puppy hasn't completed their vaccinations yet, we can photograph them safely at home or within your own secure garden, where they already feel comfortable.

What age is best for a puppy photoshoot?

Anywhere from around eight weeks onwards is wonderful. Every week brings noticeable changes, so capturing them while they're still tiny creates memories you'll treasure for years.

What if my puppy won't sit still?

That's completely normal! Puppy sessions are relaxed and led by your puppy. I work patiently, allowing plenty of time for play, cuddles and little breaks, capturing natural moments as they happen.

Can we include favourite toys or accessories?

Definitely. Whether it's a favourite blanket, collar, toy or even a tiny tie like Eddie's, these little details help tell your puppy's story and make your photographs even more personal.

Do you travel?

Yes. I'm based in Derbyshire and photograph dogs throughout the Midlands, creating relaxed outdoor and at-home portrait sessions that celebrate the unique bond between dogs and their families.

Every puppy has their own story, and those first few weeks pass by far more quickly than anyone expects. Whether your newest family member is a tiny Border Collie like Eddie or any other breed, those early days deserve to be remembered just as much as every adventure that follows.

Border Collie puppy sitting in a conservatory
Natural puppy photography at home
Border Collie puppy wearing a blue tie at home in Outwoods, Burton
Home puppy photoshoot in East Staffordshire
Border Collie puppy lying on the lawn
Tiny Border Collie puppy with brown eyes
Home puppy photoshoot in Outwoods, Burton on Trent
Curious Border Collie puppy looking at the camera
Puppy portrait in a family garden
Curious Border Collie puppy looking at the camera in Burton on Trent

Thinking about a puppy photoshoot?

If you've recently welcomed a new puppy into your family, I'd love to help you preserve these fleeting early weeks. Whether your puppy is still finding their paws at home or already exploring the countryside, every stage has its own story to tell.

If you'd simply like to find out how a relaxed puppy photoshoot works, you're always welcome to get in touch, I'm happy to answer any questions.

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