Hi there! I'm Stefanie, the owner and photographer behind Backwoods Paws Photography, specializing in dog and horse photography throughout South Jersey and surrounding areas.
As a proud dog mom of two, I know firsthand the incredible joy, unconditional love, and deep connection our animals bring into our lives. Dogs aren't just pets - they're family, our best friends, and often the ones beside us through every season of life. The love I have for my own dogs is what inspired my passion for capturing meaningful moments between animals and the people who love them most.
As a South Jersey native, born and raised, I have always appreciated the beauty our of local beaches, parks, farms and equestrian spaces - the perfect backdrop for authentic, timeless portraits.
Whether it's capturing the playful personality of your dog, the quiet bond between horse and rider, or the unforgettable connection you share, my goal is to create images that feel genuine and meaningful. I believe the best photographs come from real moments - happy tail wags, wind-blown manes, soft expressions, and the connections that speak without words.
My sessions are designed to be relaxed, stress-free, fun and tailored to your animal's personality, creating an experience that feels natural while preserving memories you'll treasure for years to come.
Because the bonds with our dogs and horses deserve to be remembered.
Pet Rescue & Non-Profit Partnerships
beacon
animal
rescue
(Logo to follow)
Canine Photography Sessions
Dog Portrait Session - Starting at $195
- 30 minute session
- 10 edited digital images
Additional Dog +$25
Dog + Owner Session - Starting at $295
- One (1) hour session
- 20 edited digital images
Additional Dog $25
Additional Owner +$20
Option to purchase additional images, prints and wall art
Equine Photography Sessions
Horse Portrait Session - Starting at $225
- 30 minute session
- 10 edited digital images
Additional Horse +$50
Horse + Rider Session - Starting at $349
- One (1) hour session
- 25 edited digital images
Option to purchase additional images, prints and wall art
ADDITIONAL SESSIONS AVAILABLE:
Riding Lessons (Multiple Rider Discount)
Conformation (Multiple Horse Discount)
Show / Event Coverage (Half Day or Full Day)
Please Note
Pricing and services are subject to change.
All session packages include travel within Atlantic County NJ. Travel fee applies to outside of radius locations.
Testimonials
"Stefanie is so talented in what she does! The pictures came out amazing and she was so patient with our dogs. We will cherish these photos forever!"
-Allison Bise
"We had such an amazing experience with Stefanie! She absolutely did an amazing job photographing our Newfies. She has great communication and you can tell she loves what she does. Will definitely be using her in the future!"
-Amber Martino
"Stef was incredible to work with. She took the time with me and my senior dog to really make her feel comfortable and not rushing to take the pictures. The pics turned out abolsutely perfect! If you're looking for professional pics of you and your pup, or any other pets, I'd highly highly recommend reaching out to Backwoods Paws Photography!! Thank you again Stef!"
-Dev Faith
 
"I had such an amazing experience with my photographer! She took her time during the entire session and never made us feel rushed. She was incredibly patient with Teddy and made the experience so comfortable and enjoyable. She was also very responsive whenever I had questions and was always willing to listen to my thoughts and ideas. She truly made our engagement photos with our dog so special and captured the moments perfectly. Her kindness, professionalism and attention to detail made the whole experience the best and I couldn't be happier with how everything turned out."
-Ashley Marie
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions
do horses need to be trained for photos?
Not at all. Horses do not need to stand perfectly still or perform for the camera. Sessions are relaxed and tailored to your horse's personality and comfort level to create natural, timeless images.
what should my horse look like for a session?
A clean, well-groomed horse photographs beautifully. Consider grooming, clean tack (if using), and any finishing touches you'd like for portraits. Don't worry - perfection is never expected.
what should i bring to my dog's session?
Please bring your dog's favorite treats, toys, leash, water, waste bags, and anything special you'd like included (bandanas, collars, seasonal accessories, etc.). High-quality treats work best for keeping attention!
my dog is blind or deaf.
how will that work in a session?
Dogs with special needs are just as photogenic as any other dog. I take extra care to ensure they feel comfortable and happy, adjusting my approach to suit their unique way of experiencing the world.
what if my dog doesn't listen or
won't sit still?
That's completely okay - most dogs don't! Sessions are designed to be relaxed, fun, and dog-led. I use patience, movement, treats, toys, and natural moments to capture beautiful images of your pup just as they are.
what if my dog is shy, reactive or anxious?
No problem! Sessions are tailored to your dog's comfort level. We move at their pace and create a calm, low-pressure experience designed to help them feel safe and comfortable.
what should i wear for my bond session?
Neutral, earthy, or solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you and your animal. Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or neon colors. I'm happy to help with outfit guidance before your session.
does my dog need to be off-leash?
No not at all! Safety always comes first. Most dogs remain safely leashed during sessions, and leashes can often be edited out in final images when possible.
where do sessions take place?
Sessions are held outdoors at beautiful Southern New Jersey locations such as parks, beaches, horse farms, barns, trails, open fields, lakes, or another meaningful location. If you have a favorite spot that's meaningful to you and your dog, I'm happy to discuss location ideas. I'm happy to help recommend a location that best fits your vision.
what happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are unsafe or not ideal, we'll happily reschedule your session at no additional charge.
how do i book a session?
Simply choose your preferred session package, submit your booking request, and I'll be in touch to finalize details and reserve your date and time. Please note a retainer is required when finalizing your session.
how will i receive my photos?
Within 2-3 weeks of your session, you will receive an email containing a link to a private online gallery containing all of the best images from your session. At that time, you will be able to view and select your favorite images to download and/or purchase depending on the type of session you booked. All images will be delivered in high-resolution, print-ready format. Prints, products and additional images are available for purchase. A top-quality printing provider is used in order to provide the best quality prints and products.
Get in Touch
Thank you for taking the time to check out my website.
I hope you will consider me as your dog or horse photographer!
Please fill out the form below for all inquiries.
I am looking forward to hearing from you!