Take a holiday themed pet portrait
Take a holiday-themed pet portrait using a camera or phone, simple props and safe pet handling; practice lighting, composition, and gentle posing.
Step-by-step guide to take a holiday-themed pet portrait
How To Draw A Christmas Puppy
Step 1
Gather the materials from the list and bring them to your chosen photo area.
Step 2
Place the blanket in a bright spot near a window so natural light will shine on where the pet will sit.
Step 3
Put the non-slip mat on the blanket and arrange one or two small props where the pet will be comfortable.
Step 4
Gently put the harness or leash on your pet with an adult helping if needed.
Step 5
Let your pet sniff and explore the blanket and props while you praise them in a calm voice.
Step 6
Kneel to match your pet’s eye level so your photos feel personal and friendly.
Step 7
Give a simple cue like “sit” or “stay” and wait briefly for your pet to pose.
Step 8
Take many quick photos from a few different angles while the pet stays calm and happy.
Step 9
Look through the photos and pick your favorite shots.
Step 10
Calm your pet and give them a treat to say thanks for being a great model.
Step 11
Share your favorite holiday pet portrait on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a non-slip mat or a pet harness from the materials list?
Place a folded towel or yoga mat under the blanket for grip and use a short leash or a snug front‑clip harness alternative with an adult holding it just off camera while following the harness/leash step.
What should we do if the pet won't sit still or is nervous during the shoot?
Follow the 'Let your pet sniff and explore the blanket and props' step, praise them calmly, give the simple cue like 'sit' or 'stay', take many quick photos from different angles, and pause to calm and reward them with a treat.
How can we adapt this activity for younger kids versus older kids?
For toddlers have an adult help put on the harness or leash and kneel at the pet's eye level while the child holds a treat or presses the shutter, and for older kids let them arrange props, experiment with angles, pick their favorite shots, and upload to DIY.org.
How can we extend or personalize our holiday pet portrait session?
Add holiday-themed props or a simple homemade costume on the blanket, try different positions near the window for varied natural light, edit your favorite shots, and make cards or share them on DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to take a holiday-themed pet portrait
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Full Tutorial - Realistic Pet Portrait
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Facts about kids' pet photography and safety
⏱️ Many pet photographers keep sessions to 5–15 minutes to prevent stress and keep pets cooperative.
🐶 Dogs have about 300 million scent receptors (humans have ~6 million) — pets rely heavily on smell, not just sight.
📸 Nicéphore Niépce made the first permanent photograph in 1826 — it required hours of exposure time.
💡 Soft, natural light (like window light or a cloudy day) is a favorite for flattering pet portraits.
🐾 Using treats, toys, or gentle sounds often earns the best "looking at camera" expressions from pets.
How do I take a holiday-themed pet portrait with my child?
What materials do I need for a holiday pet portrait activity?
What ages is a holiday pet portrait suitable for?
What safety tips should I follow when making holiday pet portraits?
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