Behind the Scenes of Our Estuary Santa Photos: A Vancouver & Vancouver Island Guide to Stress-Free Christmas Photos With Your Pets
- Brooke Arseneau
- Dec 9, 2025
- 3 min read
How I partnered with Homeward Hounds Dog Walking and made Christmas magic.
Every holiday season, families across Vancouver and Vancouver Island start planning their Christmas cards, festive social posts, and keepsake memories. And if you’re like most pet-loving families, your dog isn’t just part of the photo they are part of the family.
This year, together with Homeward Hounds Dog Walking we hosted our first annual Pet Santa Photo Event at a beautiful estuary, a local favourite for dog walkers.
Picture this, Saturday morning the two of us, backpacks on, coffee in one hand, bags and wagons in the other, hauled all out set props out to the location and created a magical scene. Even our Santa was the real deal, with a name like Mr.Christmas it really did seal the deal.
Whether you're planning Santa photos in Vancouver, Vancouver Island, or simply looking for a photographer who knows how to work with pets this behind-the-scenes look will help guide you toward your best holiday pet photos yet.
Preparation: The Secret to Great Pet & Family Christmas Photos
One of the biggest things that separates a chaotic experience from a magical one is preparation. For everyone who pre-booked their time slot, I sent out a full preparation email that covered every detail:
Exact walking directions to the photo spot
Tips for getting your pet ready
What to bring and what to wear
How to handle your pet as you approach
What happens once you arrive
When families feel prepared, they arrive confidently.
This is the difference between a “quick photo” and a full, premium photography experience.
It’s why clients across Vancouver Island, and the Lower Mainland tell me they appreciate how guided and stress-free the process feels.
What It’s Really Like to Work With a Pet Photographer:
Pet photography is its own speciality, especially holiday photography, where energy is high, outfits are carefully chosen, and the pressure to “get the shot” is real.
Here’s what you can expect when you book with me, whether it's a Santa session, Christmas minis, or a full custom family-pet portrait:
🐾 A pet-first approach
I read animals well and adjust instantly. My sessions work around your pet, not the other way around.
📸 A friendly, calm atmosphere
Pets pick up on everything. My approach keeps them relaxed and responsive.
🎄 Holiday-specific guidance
From wardrobe planning to timing to behaviour tips I make sure you’re not guessing.
🌲 Locations that complement your vision
Whether you're in Metro Vancouver or Vancouver Island, I guide you toward locations that photograph beautifully and work well for pets.
💬 Clear communication from start to finish
My full experience includes preparation, on-site support, and post-session guidance, so you always know what’s coming next.
5 Helpful Tips for Your Next Christmas Pet Photo Session (Vancouver & Vancouver Island Edition)
Whether you book a Santa photo or a full pet session, these tips will set you up for success:
1. Give your dog time to adjust
Planning a quick walk on location before the session really helps.
2. Bring the essentials
Treats, a favourite toy, poop bags, water, and any festive accessories.
3. Choose outfits you love
Stick to cohesive colours or go festive with your favourite Christmas sweaters.
4. Arrive early
Vancouver traffic + Island ferries + excited pets: you’ll be glad you left some room to breathe.
5. Pick a photographer who knows pets
This is the most important. A pet photographer understands angles, behaviour, pacing, safety, and how to capture your family with your animals.
Thank You All for an Incredible Santa Photo Day
If you’re looking for a professional dog walker in Lady Smith, and surrounding communities, I highly recommend Chelsey Taylor from Homeward Hounds Dog Walking. You can reach her here;
And If you’re looking for a pet photographer, in Vancouver, Lower Mainland and south east Vancouver Island, I’d love to create something beautiful with you! Contact me below;
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