Photographing Multiple Dogs: Meet Dumpie, Buckwheat & Frankie
Photographing multiple dogs at once might sound like herding squirrels, but honestly, they often turn into some of my most favorite sessions. In this Oakland shoot, I hung out with three dogs who share a home and a whole lot of personality. From the playful puppy to the chill senior, every dog brought their own energy to the mix, and together, they made magic.
Dumpie is the sweet old soul. Calm, gentle, and always the first to roll over for a belly rub. Buckwheat, a brindle tripod pug mix, is the entertainer of the bunch, expressive face, big personality, and the softest fur ever. And Frankie? She’s the puppy of the pack, bold, opinionated, and the self-appointed narrator of the group. She’s constantly “talking” and cracking everyone up, but she adores Dumpie and rarely leaves his side. Together, they prove that multi-dog sessions aren’t just doable. They’re full of laughter, movement, and stories you’ll never forget.
Why Leona Heights is Perfect for Dog Photography
Leona Heights in the Oakland Hills was the perfect setting for this pack’s adventure. The mix of textures, trees, and natural light gave us endless backdrops, and when the fog rolled in, it softened everything into this dreamy, cinematic glow.
Even on quieter trails, there are always distractions like hikers, scents, and the occasional squirrel cameo, but that’s the beauty of it. Real dogs being themselves. That’s what makes dog photography in Oakland so special: every session is part photo shoot, part adventure, part comedy show.
Capturing the Chaos: Multi-Dog Photography in Action
Photographing one dog is lively. Photographing three dogs and their humans is controlled chaos. But that’s also where the magic happens. One of my favorite moments from this session is where everyone poses for a classic family portrait, the kind of photo you proudly frame on the wall. But right after that, everyone started laughing, cuddling, and Frankie, of course, decided it was her moment to shine. She’s the only one looking straight at the camera like a total pro. We did nail a full group shot with two humans and three wiggly dogs in one frame though, no major Photoshop heroics required. Challenging? Yep. Worth it? Absolutely.
Tips for Stress-Free Multi-Dog Photography Sessions
The key is to embrace the chaos. I’ll be there every step of the way to guide you and your pups, so you don’t have to stress about positioning, cues, or props, just focus on having fun. Here are my top 10 tips for a smooth, happy session:
1. Don’t stress about perfection.
The best photos happen in the in-between moments, one dog distracted, another rolling in the grass, and a third giving their best side-eye. Every dog has a rhythm. Dumpie is a lounger. Frankie is a zoomie queen. Buckwheat is somewhere in between. Capturing that mix is what makes the photos feel so real.
2. Take plenty of breaks
While I photograph one or two, the others can chill, cuddle, or explore. It keeps everyone happy (and keeps the snacks flowing). Which brings us to the next tip...
3. Bring back-up
With multiple dogs, an extra set of hands can make all the difference. A friend can hold leashes, manage treats, take one pup for a quick sniff, while you cuddle in front of the camera with the other. You don't have to of course, but just let me know if you plan to bring some extra hands.
4. Expect chaos... and don’t stress if things get a little wild.
With multiple dogs in one frame, you’re guaranteed wiggly energy, crazy faces, and weird expressions, sometimes even impromptu play sessions mid-pose. It’s totally normal for pups not to do exactly what you want, and it’s also completely normal to feel a bit frustrated when it happens. Trust me, even the most well-trained dogs sometimes act like they haven’t had a single second of training in their lives once there’s a camera present. A few simple cues, like “sit,” “stay,” or “look,” can help keep them in frame, but the best shots always come from snuggles, nudges, and real interactions. Laugh, let go, and enjoy the moment, that’s where the magic happens.
5. Coordinate your look.
Your dogs don’t have to match, but it’s nice when collars, harnesses, or bandanas complement each other. Humans can coordinate with the pups too, without going full-on 90's boyband (I would absolutely love that though). Subtle color choices or complementary outfits make group photos look cohesive while keeping it fun and natural.
6. Look for low-distraction zones.
Even the friendliest and well socialized dogs can get overstimulated when multiple personalities get together. A quiet area helps all dogs focus and keeps the session fun rather than stressful.
7. Pick a location that works for the whole pack.
With multiple dogs, it’s not just about one dog’s comfort. Choose a spot where everyone can move, sniff, explore, and interact naturally. Seniors like Dumpie might need shorter walks, puppies like Frankie need space to burn off energy, and Buckwheat loves to explore at his own pace. The right location helps reduce stress and encourages authentic interactions for your photos.
8. Plan for space to manage the pack.
Multi-dog households can get chaotic in tight areas. Open spaces let dogs spread out, give you room to capture different groupings, and make it easier to keep everyone calm and safe.
9. Trust that we’ll get the shot.
There’s always at least one moment where everyone comes together perfectly. Sometimes it happens naturally, and sometimes Photoshop gives us a little help. Either way, you’ll walk away with images you’ll love, without stressing over perfection.
10. Don’t forget to enjoy yourself.
These moments go by fast. Laugh, cuddle, and soak it in, I'll take care of the rest.
The Human Side of Multi-Dog Photography
This family wanted photos that felt real, not stiff portraits, but moments that captured life with their dogs as it truly is. We photographed family portraits, solo moments with each dog, and a few hilarious group shots in the forest. One of my favorite parts was watching the bond between Buckwheat and his dad. The way he looks up to him and gives him all the kisses is absolutely adorable.
When I later dropped off their wall art, I was greeted with the full welcoming committee: kisses, wiggles, barking, and general joyful chaos. It was the perfect full-circle moment that reminded me exactly why I love photographing dogs and their people.
Book Your San Francisco Bay Area Dog Photography Session
Whether you have one dog or a whole pack, I would love to capture the chaos, the cuddles, and the personalities that make your dogs unique. I photograph dogs and families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, just send me a message!
