Bluebells & Portraits | A Woodland Dog Photoshoot with Noodle the Welsh Collie

There’s something incredibly special about photographing dogs in spring woodlands, especially when the bluebells begin to appear and the light filters softly through the trees.

This was my third photoshoot with Noodle, a beautifully trained Welsh Collie and this time we explored a quiet woodland near Overseal in Derbyshire. The woodland was filled with delicate bluebells, scattered dandelions and the fresh greens that only seem to appear for a few short weeks each year.

Because bluebells are protected and incredibly fragile, we were very careful throughout the session to stay on the tiny natural pathways already created by the wildlife living within the woods. It’s something that matters deeply to me during outdoor photoshoots, creating beautiful images whilst still respecting the landscape around us.

Noodle was an absolute dream to photograph. Every dog session is different and I always work around the individual personality and temperament of the dog in front of me. Some sessions are full of movement, play and adventure, whilst others like this one become more refined portrait sessions with a calm and thoughtful feel.

As a Welsh Collie, Noodle is exceptionally intelligent, responsive and focused, which allowed us to create some truly timeless portraits amongst the bluebells. Her connection with her owner and her gentle expression made every image feel incredibly natural.

I think this session perfectly reflects the kind of dog photography I love most, relaxed, outdoorsy and completely centred around the dog itself. No pressure, no stiff posing, just beautiful portraits created patiently and naturally in the landscape.

Spring and early summer are some of the loveliest times for dog photography in Derbyshire and the Midlands, especially for owners wanting natural countryside portraits with their dogs.

Whether your dog is energetic, nervous, older, highly trained or simply happiest sniffing around the woods, every session is tailored to them.

Thinking About a Dog Photoshoot?

If you’ve been considering a photoshoot with your dog but feel worried they “won’t behave”, please don’t panic most dogs aren’t trained like Noodle and they absolutely do not need to be.

Some of my favourite images come from personality, connection and those little in-between moments.

I photograph all kinds of dogs across Derbyshire and the Midlands, from working dogs and gundogs to family pets and adventurous countryside companions.

If you’d love timeless photographs of your dog outdoors, I’d love to hear from you.

Download my free Dog Photoshoot Guide to help you prepare for a relaxed and enjoyable session with your dog, including what to wear, how sessions work and tips for nervous or energetic dogs.

Or get in touch to book your own countryside dog photography session with TMS Photography.