Are you struggling to get good photos of your Newfoundland? If your photos have been blurry, out of focus, or just too dark, and you’re dreaming of creating beautiful images of your Newf to share on social media, print, or even turn into a canvas, then you’re in the right place. I’m here to offer some Newfoundland dog photography tips with three very simple techniques that you can quickly implement to vastly improve your results. These tips are applicable to all types of cameras – smartphones, point-and-shoot cameras, DSLRs, and mirrorless, etc. Let’s dive in!
1. Get outside!
Natural Light.
First and foremost, consider the transformative power of light. Did you know that the natural light outdoors can be anywhere from 100 to 1,000 times more abundant than the artificial glow inside your home? Light is the magic ingredient that brings out the richness of colors and the intricate details in your Newfoundland’s fur. So let’s head outside to take advantage of that natural light outdoors when snapping pics of our Newf.
Location, Location, Location.
In addition to getting outside we also need to find a suitable location to take our shots. Ideally we’d like to find areas with wide open spaces that are free of distracting elements such as telephone poles, trash cans, cars, etc. Picture-perfect spots include local parks, tranquil beaches, or even the familiar comfort of your own backyard. We can also just position our Newfs so any distracting elements are not noticeable in the background. It will also be beneficial to find an area with minimal people, especially if your Newf is easily distracted.

2. Get down low and move closer!
Take the photos from a lower angle and get closer to your Newfie.
Taking pictures low to the ground and getting close to your Newfoundland can significantly enhance the quality and appeal of your photos. Shooting at eye level or slightly below can provide a more intimate and natural view of your Newfie. This approach allows you to capture the details of their face, maintain proper body proportions, and convey a genuine sense of connection.



Remember, you don’t always necessarily have to take a photo of the entire Newf body. You could also get an extreme closeup of your dog’s face and eyes. The eyes are often considered the windows to the soul, and extreme close-ups of your Newf eyes can be incredibly powerful. They convey a range of emotions, from joy and excitement to curiosity or contemplation, providing a deep insight into their emotional state. This perspective can elicit a strong emotional response from viewers, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of your dog’s demeanor.
Try to avoid taking photos looking down on your Newfie.
I’ve noticed that some people tend to snap a pic from above while looking down at their Newf. Yes, we here at Newf Nation like ALL pics of pooches, however this angle is not very flattering for a large breed dog. The overhead perspective, where the camera is positioned above your Newfie may compromise the overall appeal of your image. One of the primary drawbacks of shooting from above is the distortion of your dog’s body proportions. When the camera is angled downward, the head becomes the central focus, often dominating the frame. This can result in the body appearing smaller, or in some cases, completely hidden from view. The essence of your dog’s physique, posture, and overall presence may be lost in translation.

3. Bring a friend!

And a drool towel, squeaky toys, a brush, and treats!
Taking decent pics of your active Newf might be a challenge if you don’t have some help. It’s a great idea to bring a friend to your Newf photo shoot. Firstly, your friend can assist in maintaining your Newf’s attention and keeping them clean while you concentrate on capturing the perfect shots. Additionally, they can be invaluable in wiping away any drool (a well-known trait of our Newfs!) and tidying up around the eyes as needed. Furthermore, your friend can also be a great help in either concealing or holding the leash, especially if you prefer it not to be visible in the photo. And what’s a photo shoot without a brush for a quick combing if need be and that squeaky toy is perfect for the precious head tilt shot!
CONCLUSION
Have fun! If your photo session isn’t going well and you or your dog is getting stressed, just put down the camera and have some fun. Throw the ball or just go for a walk so this isn’t a bad experience for you or your Newfoundland.
Sharing a lifetime alongside my beloved Newfoundland.
As we capture these moments together, chronicling our lives alongside our cherished Newfoundlands, we’re creating a visual legacy that will beautifully reflect the incredible journey we’ve shared. These images will become cherished memories, offering a heartwarming glimpse into the wonderful life we’ve lived with our beloved Newfies.
More to come!
We’ve only just begun to delve into the world of Newfoundland photography tips. Therefore, stay tuned for a wealth of additional photo advice that will be arriving shortly. Some additional topics will include:
- Selfies
- Backlit photos
- Elements to INCLUDE in your images that create a story
- Silhouettes
- Editing
- Rule of Thirds
- Golden Hour
- AND much more!
Thank you for spending some time here today.
I’d like to thank you for spending some time here at Newf Nation today. If you find any of these photography tips useful please feel free to send to a friend or share on social media. Feel free to follow me on Facebook or Instagram.