Timeless Outdoor Portraits: Horses, Dogs & People in Southern New Jersey
Capturing natural light to tell your story. I specialize in on-location photography at farms, ranches, trails, and coastlines, creating art that celebrates your animals and your bond.
Meet Your Photographer
Hi there, South Jersey animal lovers! If you are completely obsessed with your fur-babies and pasture-pals, you have officially found your exact right place. I'm Stefanie, the owner and photographer behind Backwoods Paws Photography.
I’m a proud dog mom to a female ACD (Red Heeler) and a male Border Collie/GSD/Lab mix, so I know firsthand that our animals aren't just pets—they are our whole world. You would think living with two high energy herding breeds, it would be non-stop chaos. Believe it or not, it's only my Red Heeler who causes the non-stop chaos LOL. My Heinz 57 pup (I call him my stud muffin), is a human on four legs. He just goes with the flow and takes the backseat since my Red Heeler is always running the show! With that being said, having that deep love for my own four-legged children is the exact reason I started this side business.
I wanted to create a space dedicated entirely to celebrating the wild, beautiful, and delightfully chaotic spirit of your dogs and horses through fun, stress-free photography. On a softer note, your four-legged babies are a piece of your heart, a keeper of your secrets, and your truest comfort. Our only wish is that they could stay with us forever. While we cannot slow down the ticking clock or stop the grey from dusting their sweet muzzles, we can catch the light of their spirit and hold onto it tightly. I am here to gently bottle up the warmth, the quiet glances, and the unspoken devotion you share, preserving them in artwork that you will cherish for a lifetime. While I love serving the southern part of New Jersey right now, my ultimate dream is to take this passion on the road and travel the USA, capturing incredible animals and their stories everywhere I go.
Beyond private backyard, park and ranch sessions, you can also find me right in the center of the action capturing peak performance. I love hitting the road on weekends to photograph horse shows and dog sport events. When I'm not behind the lens at an official event, I believe in using my camera for good. I proudly donate my time and skills to local pet rescues, providing high-quality professional images of adoptable animals to help show off their true personalities and greatly increase their chances of finding a forever home. Whether your pup is kicking up dirt on the agility course, your horse is shining in the show ring, or you just want to freeze a quiet pasture snuggle forever, I am there to turn those genuine moments into art. I pour 100% of my off-time energy into celebrating animals, and I cannot wait to capture yours!
Sessions & Investment
Capturing the Wet Noses, Waggy Tails, and Majestic Gallops!
Let’s be honest: whether your best friend is a couch-potato pup ruling the living room or a magnificent horse ruling the pasture, they completely run the show and own a massive chunk of your heart. They grow up and change way too fast. While your phone's camera roll is probably 99% photos of them, they deserve to be celebrated with true professional artwork! Whether you want to design a jaw-dropping gallery wall that makes guests stop in their tracks or you just want a shiny new batch of high-resolution digital memories to share with the world, we’ve got you covered right here in the beautiful, sun-drenched outdoor spaces of Southern New Jersey.
CHECK OUT OUR fun-filled session options below to find the perfect fit for your favorite animal VIP!
Option 1: The Creative Session Experience
Best for dog parents & horse riders who want ultimate flexibility and custom heirloom artwork.
Do you dream of gorgeous canvas prints, custom-designed albums, or a striking statement piece over the fireplace? The Creative Session Fee locks in your date on our calendar and hands you the steering wheel. You get to completely customize your final collection of prints or digital files after you see your proofs! You only buy what you absolutely love!
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- A tailored portrait session that seamlessly blends stunning solo showcases of your dog or horse with heartfelt, joint portraits of the two of you together at a beautiful outdoor location.
- Up to 90 minutes of patient, stress-free, treat-filled shooting time tailored to your animal to ensure a safe, relaxed pace.
- Professional editing magic and hand-retouching on your very best shots.
- Got More Than One VIP? You can add a furry or hooved sibling to your shoot for an additional fee (maximum of 2 animals total per session to ensure everyone gets plenty of patient spotlight time!).
- Private Online Viewing Only: An exclusive, password-protected online proofing gallery delivered straight to your inbox to choose your absolute favorites from the comfort of your couch.
THE FINE PRINT: This option covers your session time, photographer's talent and editing upfront. It does not include any digital files or printed products. There is no minimum order. Most clients invest between $500 to $1,500+ for their photography experience, some spend less and some spend much more. A non-refundable retainer is required to secure your session date and time.
PRICING STARTING AT $150.00
Option 2: The Ultimate Companion Digital Collection
Best for capturing your dog or horse's unique, goofy, or noble personality, while also celebrating the beautiful, chaotic, and deep bond between you.
If you want a straightforward, stress-free experience that perfectly balances your animal’s solo stardom with the deep bond you share, this all-inclusive session is for you. You are always the one behind the camera snapping photos of your dog or horse—it’s time to change that! This experience splits the fame right down the middle. We spend half of our time focusing 100% of our energy on your animal's best angles, silly faces, and proud moments using gorgeous natural scenery. Then, we step into the frame together to capture heartwarming, candid moments of the two of you interacting.
WHAT'S INCLUDED:
- A tailored portrait session that seamlessly blends stunning solo showcases of your dog or horse with heartfelt, joint portraits of the two of you together at a beautiful outdoor location.
- Up to 90 minutes of patient, stress-free, treat-filled shooting time tailored to your animal to ensure a safe, relaxed pace.
- 15 fully retouched, high-resolution digital images of your choice, chosen from your private proofing gallery.
- Got More Than One VIP? You can add a furry or hooved sibling to your shoot for an additional fee (maximum of 2 animals total per session to ensure everyone gets plenty of patient spotlight time!).
- An exclusive, private online gallery to view, select, and instantly download your final images.
- Want More Magic? Fell completely head-over-hooves for your entire proofing gallery? Additional high-resolution digital images, high-resolution digital image bundles, a full gallery digital upgrade, professional prints, physical products, and custom wall art are all available for purchase directly through your online gallery store! There is no minimum order. Most clients invest between $500 to $1,500+ for their photography experience, some spend less and some spend much more.
THE FINE PRINT: A non-refundable retainer is required to secure your session date and time, with the remaining balance due before your shoot.
PRICING STARTING AT $375.00
Please Note:
South Jersey is absolutely beautiful, and we love exploring every square inch of it—from the quiet horse pastures of Burlington County across to the scenic trails of Ocean County and right down to the sunny beaches of Cape May! To keep things completely clear and fair, all of our standard session prices fully include travel to any outdoor park, beach, or private farm located right here within Atlantic County. If your favorite local trail, boarding stable, or farm is located outside of Atlantic County, don't worry! We happily travel all over Southern New Jersey to capture your best friend. For all sessions further than 25 miles from Egg Harbor Twp NJ, a travel fee (calculated round-trip for the travel outside of radius) will be added to your session to cover gas and windshield time.
Please Note: For beach sessions down at the shore, clients are responsible for handling any specific parking fees, location permits, or beach tags required for us to get our toes (and paws!) in the sand on the day of the shoot.
Photo editing requests that exceeds my natural style of editing is an extra charge.
My goal is to help you create beautiful and meaningful art work and products that will last for generations. Your photography experience is a reflection of my integrity to do the utmost best for you. If you aren’t wholeheartedly satisfied with your experience or products, I promise to make it right.
Please note that all pricing, packages, and product menus are subject to change without notice. However, once your contract is signed and your retainer is paid, your package rates are 100% locked in and guaranteed for your session. Sessions are placed on our calendar on a first-come, first-served basis and are not officially secured until both a signed agreement and your non-refundable booking retainer are received.
How to Prepare for Your Photography Session with Backwoods Paws Photography
On-Location Prep:
- I visit the location prior to the session (if I haven’t been there before) to ensure it’s perfect for our day and to find the perfect spots to photograph.
- If I cannot visit the location before the session, I do plenty of research online and get to the session early to scout out before you get there.
- During the session, we really just go with the flow and follow your pet’s lead, but I like to have an outline in my head.
FOR DOG SESSIONS
how to prepare for your session:
- Give yourself plenty of time. On the day of the session, try to give yourself plenty of time before and after so that you’re not rushed. For my sessions, we usually photograph for up to 90 minutes. Plan on arriving at the location early to give yourself and your dog(s) a minute to relax, sniff, and get ready.
- Plan what to wear. Having your outfits selected before the day of the session relieves so much stress. Choose clothes that complement your dog’s fur color. For example, if you have a black dog, avoid wearing all black, or your pup might blend right into your clothes during a hug. Neutral, earthy, or solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you and your dog(s). Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or neon colors. I offer lots of ideas and tips to help you choose clothes that you’ll love.
- Neutral gear for your dog(s): Choose a clean, neutral-colored collar or a sleek leather harness. Avoid bulky, neon, or faded everyday gear that will distract from their face in photos.
- Having your dog groomed is optional. I truly want to keep things easy for you, and grooming is not necessary. At the minimum, please give your pet a light brushing and wipe around their eyes, ears, and mouth so they look nice and fresh! Don’t forget to clip their nails, if needed. If your pup(s) need grooming or not, this might be a great opportunity to get them a new collar or choose an accessory that’s meaningful to you.
- Think about where you want to display these images. Even before our session, take a few minutes to look around your home and dream about where you want these images to live.
- Make sure people are fed and the dog(s) can wait for their meal. Make sure all the people are fed before the session, especially if there are little ones. Your pup(s) can actually wait for their meal until after the session…it will make them more interested in their treats.
- Burnt-out energy: Give your dog(s) a good walk or play session a few hours before the shoot. You want them happy and relaxed, not bursting with hyperactive energy, but not completely exhausted either.
Bonus tips!
For the humans, please generously hydrate the days leading up to the session. And the night prior, get a good night’s sleep. You truly want to feel your best on the day of the session. And most of all, I want you to be prepared to relax and have a fun, memorable session.
what to bring to your session:
Pack a bag with these day-of essentials to keep your pup motivated:
- High-value treats like freeze-dried meat or cheese cut into tiny, bite-sized pieces.
- A favorite squeaky toy or a tennis ball to grab their attention toward the lens.
- A leash and collar for each dog. Safety is my number one priority at your session and when we are on location, a leash and collar will come in handy. I bring short and long leashes just in case. Avoid using retractable leashes, as they are harder to edit out of photos later. If your dog is used to a harness, I do not remove it from the photos. Your pup can wear a harness and keep it on between photos.
- Poop bags and a water bowl
- Neutral-colored throw or blanket (optional).
The Secret Weapon: Patience & Flexibility
- Expect the unexpected: Dogs pick up on stress. If they don't sit or stay perfectly, don't worry! Action shots, candid snuggles, and goofy expressions often make the absolute best portraits.
 
FOR HORSE SESSIONS
how to prepare for your session:
- Give yourself plenty of time. On the day of the session, try to give yourself plenty of time before and after so that you’re not rushed. For my sessions, we usually photograph for up to 90 minutes. Plan on arriving at the location early to give yourself a minute to relax and get ready and fed and brush your horse(s).
- Plan what to wear. Having your outfits selected before the day of the session relieves so much stress. Neutral, earthy, or solid colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you and your dog(s). Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or neon colors. I offer lots of ideas and tips to help you choose clothes that you’ll love.
- Bathe your horse the day before: Wash your horse thoroughly 24 hours in advance to get rid of dust, loose hair, and stains. Use specialized shampoos (like purple for whites or color-enhancing formulas) and keep them blanketed or stalled overnight to stay clean.
- Clip 7+ days ahead: Clip muzzles, ears, fetlocks, and bridle paths at least a week before the shoot so the lines soften and blend naturally.
- Groom on the day: Do a final head-to-toe brush, clean the hooves, braid or band the mane if you want an elevated look, and wipe away any eye discharge ("eye boogies") or dust.
- Light exercise: Give your horse a light lunge or short ride before the session to let out extra energy, but make sure they are completely cooled down and sweat-free before the camera starts clicking.
- Clean tack: Scrub your saddle, bridle, and bits the day before. Avoid neon or distracting bright colors that draw the eye away from the horse.
- Think about where you want to display these images. Even before our session, take a few minutes to look around your home and dream about where you want these images to live.
- Make sure people and the horse(s) are fed. Make sure all the people and horse(s) are fed before the session, especially if there are little ones.
Bonus tips!
For the humans, please generously hydrate the days leading up to the session. And the night prior, get a good night’s sleep. You truly want to feel your best on the day of the session. And most of all, I want you to be prepared to relax and have a fun, memorable session.
what to bring to your session:
Pack a small track bag or bucket with these day-of essentials:
- Soft finishing brush
- A clean rag or baby wipes for last-minute slobber or dust
- Horse treats to grab attention and reward your horse
- Fly spray
- Water and light snacks
The Secret Weapon: An Extra Set of Hands
- Bring a helper: An extra person is invaluable for rattling buckets, waving a crinkly wrapper, or holding a handheld mirror to get your horse’s ears perked forward and alert.
What to Expect After Your Photo Session
About a week to 10 days after the session, I’ll email you a link with a gallery of your online proofs of the best photos from your session! This will include one fully edited image to give you a sneak peek of the final polished look!
For Clients who selected the Creative Session Experience: As a reminder, this session does not include any images, prints or products. This gives you full control on how many photos you'd like to choose. When viewing your online gallery, you will see the "store" icon where you will be able to view all different types of products, image bundles and prints available for purchase. Pick your favorite images by using the gallery's favorite tool. Following your selection of favorites, you will proceed to the checkout process. Once completed, I will receive your favorite photos to edit. You will receive a download link directly to your email once your photos have been completed. Please allow up to 3 weeks after receiving your favorite images to be delivered.
For Clients who selected the Ultimate Companion Digital Collection: You have selected the session where a certain number of images are included. When viewing your online gallery, you will see the "store" icon where you will be able to view all different types of products, image bundles and prints available for purchase as well. Pick your favorite images by using the gallery's favorite tool - If you end up falling in love with more than what your session package includes, select those too! Following your selection of favorites, you will proceed to the checkout process (if there are extra images). Once completed, I will receive your favorite photos to edit. You will receive a download link directly to your email once your photos have been completed. Please allow up to 3 weeks after receiving your favorite images to be delivered.
For All Clients - If you are unsure on which products / prints to choose to have displayed in your home, I will happily assist you! A top-quality printing provider is used in order to provide the best quality prints and products.
 
Get in Touch
Welcome! I’m so excited to learn more about you and your four-legged companion. Outdoor portrait and action sessions are all about capturing your animal’s true personality in motion—whether that’s a powerful canter through a field or a joyful dog sprint through the trails. To help me plan a safe, beautiful, and tailored experience for your pets, please fill out the quick questions below. Don't worry if your dog can't go off-leash or your horse gets a bit spooky; we will design the session entirely around what makes them comfortable!