How to Prepare Your Cocker Spaniel for a Photo Session Outdoors

Planning a professional photoshoot for your Cocker Spaniel is exciting—but if you’ve never done it before, you might be wondering how to prepare. Don’t worry: your dog doesn’t need to be trained or perfectly behaved. Our sessions in the magical forests of Windsor and Ascot are designed to be relaxed, fun, and spaniel-friendly from start to finish.

Still, a little preparation can make all the difference when it comes to helping your spaniel shine in front of the camera.

Here’s how to get ready for your woodland photography experience.

1. Groom… But Don’t Overdo It

You don’t need a full grooming appointment the day before the session. In fact, a slightly tousled look is part of a Cocker Spaniel's charm!

Instead:

• Give your spaniel a gentle brush to remove tangles or loose hair
• Wipe their eyes and trim excess fur around them if needed
• Tidy their paws and ears if they’re especially fluffy

Let their personality come through—this isn’t about perfection, it’s about authenticity.

2. Choose the Right Collar (or None at All)

We recommend either:

• A simple, clean collar in a neutral colour

Avoid brightly patterned or reflective gear unless it’s part of your style. If you’d like some collar-free portraits, we can remove it during parts of the shoot in a safe area—just let us know in advance.

3. Bring the Essentials

These are must-haves for the day:

• High-value treats – small and tasty for rewarding good behaviour
• Favourite toy or ball – perfect for action photos and focus
• Water and a portable bowl – to keep your dog hydrated after all the running
• A towel – especially if your spaniel loves a muddy puddle (which they probably do)

4. Exercise? Yes, But Not Too Much

You want your dog to be relaxed but not worn out. A short walk or play before the session is fine, but save their full energy for the woods.

We’ll give your spaniel time to settle and explore when we arrive—it’s part of the experience.

5. Stay Calm and Positive

Dogs pick up on your energy. If you’re relaxed and enjoying the session, your spaniel will be too. There’s no pressure—some dogs take a little longer to settle, and that’s completely normal.

We work at your dog’s pace, using gentle guidance, play, and rewards to create a fun atmosphere.

6. Wear Forest-Friendly Clothes (for You)

If you’ll be in the photos too:

• Choose natural colours (greens, browns, creams) to complement the woodland backdrop
• Avoid logos, high-contrast patterns, or neon
• Comfortable shoes or boots are essential—we’ll be walking forest trails!

Even if you’re staying behind the camera, dress for the outdoors. The experience is part photo session, part magical woodland walk.

7. Trust the Process

The best portraits come when we let spaniels be themselves—running, sniffing, exploring, and just being joyfully doggy.

Each 60–90 minute session allows plenty of time to:

• Get those soulful portrait shots in natural light
• Capture high-energy flying spaniel action
• Take breaks as needed, especially for younger or older dogs

We don’t rush. We don’t force poses. We simply create the space for your spaniel’s personality to shine.

Final Tip: It’s About More Than Just Photos

Most of our clients say the session felt like a magical day out—not just a photo session. It’s about enjoying time in the woods with your best friend and creating lasting memories, both in the moment and in the images you take home.

Ready to Plan Your Spaniel’s Woodland Session?

We’d love to welcome you to the forests of Windsor and Ascot and create something unforgettable together.