Nature is one of my big inspirations in dog photography. As a dog photographer, I like to focus on the bond between dogs and their environment. When I started with dog photography, I mainly took close-up portraits of dog models where not much of the location was visible. Even though the portraits showed the beauty of the dog, I sometimes felt that the way I looked at the location in real life and the way it made me feel didn’t really come across in the photo. That is why I eventually started showing more of the surroundings in my photography.

Selecting and preparing locations for my dog photo shoots is a meticulous yet rewarding process. Each location is chosen not only for its visual appeal but also for its ability to complement the personality and energy of the dog I’m photographing. Subconsciously, I always look around for potential locations, no matter where I go. Having my own dog, Nanuq, by my side also motivates me to go out and explore. After all, she was the reason I started with dog photography in the first place.

Preparation often includes determining the perfect timing for the shoot, since I mostly work with just natural light. I look at the location with the dog in mind, imagining how they might move through the space or where they could be posed. Capturing the individual dog's personality strongly depends on what makes the process the most fun and comfortable for them. Some dogs have no problem posing at a spot with just a simple command. Other dogs need a more playful approach where they get to explore and be themselves. I might have a certain image in mind, but in the end, the dog decides what the final image looks like. It has happened several times that the pose the dog ended up choosing was even better than how I imagined it. When you give them the freedom to look for a pose that makes them feel comfortable, their personality tends to show naturally.

A photo that was particularly challenging to take was the photo 'Echo of Light.' I have taken photos with dogs and light rays before, but I was never completely satisfied. These lighting conditions only happen a few times a year, and you have to be lucky to be in the right place at the right time. The morning this photo was taken, everything came together perfectly. The spontaneous howling pose was the final ingredient that made the image. Winning an award with this photo makes it a memorable one for me in 2024.

For aspiring photographers looking to capture dogs in breathtaking settings, my advice is simple: connect with your subject and really look at your environment. Take the time to understand the dog you’re photographing and let their personality guide you. Scout locations thoroughly and be prepared for the unexpected, since nature often has its own plans. Don’t be afraid to try a new approach, even when it comes to locations you have visited many times before. Sometimes a change of season or a different perspective can create an entirely different photo.