Dogs in urban & nature
Bratislava, Slovakia
8-12 participants
1.-3. May 2026
About the Workshop
Join our exclusive three-day workshop designed to elevate your dog photography skills through a powerful mix of hands-on learning, expert input, and inspiring locations.
Throughout this intensive program, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to capture stunning, personality-filled images of dogs — whether you’re shooting in vibrant urban settings or peaceful natural surroundings.
With two dog photography experts, you’ll dive deep into every aspect of their craft! Veronika and Ria will show you their ways of working with dogs and their owners, choose and select your settings and equipment, how to see and work in urban and nature locations, to use the natural light conditions and to breathe magic into your pictures by using Photoshop!
This experience is perfect for intermediate to advanced photographers who already feel confident with their camera settings and have a basic understanding of Photoshop. You’ll be working in a small, like-minded group of fellow dog and photography enthusiasts — the ideal environment for focused learning and creative exchange.
Please note: The workshop will be held in English.
Requirements
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera where you can interchange lenses.
- Recommended lenses: wide-angle lenses for urban and tele-lenses with wide aperture for nature
- Bring full charged batteries and memory cards
- Sturdy clothes and comfortable shoes.
- A laptop (or computer) with Photoshop and Lightroom installed (the trial version will do) for the editing we do on Sunday.
- We might have to walk longer during our practical sessions, so you have to be physically fit!
- A good spirit that wants to learn and is open for trying out new things!
Day 1
Our first workshop day is all about building a solid foundation before we dive into the practical side of things. In this focused theory session—lasting around four hours including breaks—we’ll gather in our seminar space for an in-depth look at the essentials of dog portrait photography.
Together with Veronika and Ria, you’ll explore everything you need to feel confident behind the camera. From understanding which camera settings work best in different situations to knowing what gear to bring, how to compose your images thoughtfully, and how to pose dogs effectively while communicating with their owners—every key aspect is covered. You’ll also learn how to find the right location and make the most of it, as well as how to read and use natural light to elevate your results.
To support your learning, you’ll receive a comprehensive workshop booklet summarizing all the core theory.
This session is designed to give you the tools and creative confidence you’ll need for Day 2, when we take everything into the field for an exciting, hands-on photo shoot experience.
Day 2
The second day begins early in the morning with our first practical session, set in the heart of Bratislava. In the calm morning hours, the city streets are still quiet—offering the perfect backdrop for our first dog portrait shoot in an urban setting. Accompanied by well-trained dog models of all shapes and sizes, you’ll have the opportunity to bring your creative ideas to life in this vibrant environment.
Participants will be divided into two small groups, rotating between Veronika and Ria to benefit from both of their distinct styles and techniques. You’ll be guided through their individual workflows, from preparing the scene to capturing the final shot, with practical insights on composition, angles, posing, and how to communicate effectively.
After the morning shoot, we’ll head to a nearby restaurant to unwind and enjoy a relaxed lunch together. This is also your chance to receive personal feedback on your images from both instructors, helping you refine your approach for the next session.
Later in the day, as the sun begins to set, we’ll move to a natural location for the second shoot. Here, you’ll explore a different creative process—learning how to find and use nature photo spots to your advantage, work with the changing light, and approach your dog models with fresh inspiration.
Day 3
On the final day of the workshop, we shift our focus to the editing process. Veronika and Ria will each guide you through a complete post-processing workflow in Photoshop and Lightroom, sharing their personal techniques and approaches step by step.
Afterward, you’ll have the chance to edit your own images, with hands-on support and individual feedback to help you get the most out of your work.
In the afternoon, we’ll wrap up the experience with a final, fun shoot in nature. Veronika and Ria will prepare beautiful photo spots and bring in a variety of dog models—but this time, it’s all yours to direct. You’ll be free to take the lead, pose the dogs, and apply everything you’ve learned throughout the workshop.
By the end of Day 3, you’ll leave not only with new skills and confidence, but also with stunning images for your portfolio and a deeper understanding of the full process—from capturing to editing unforgettable dog portraits.
Ready for an intensive and fun workshop weekend full of photography and dog cuddles?
Included in the price:
- 2-3 organised photo sessions with dog models in all shapes and sizes!
- Drinks and snacks during the theoretical parts.
- English script about the theoretical part and a recording of our editing workflows.
- Recordings of the editing workflows of the teachers.
- Feedback and help after the workshop in an exclusive, private group online.
Location
Our seminar room will be located in or around Bratislava.
The specific location spots for the practical sessions will be announced privately after registration and will be a 30-60 minutes drive from our seminar room.
Price
The price of the workshop is 550€, which will be divided to two payments of 275€. The first payment is due right after your registration and the second one shortly before the workshop.
Not included: Meals, travel insurance, transportation and if necessary, overnight stays.
Registration
The minimum number of participants is 8, the maximum number is 12.
If you want to register for the workshop, send an email via info@rp-photography.at. Your spot is fixed after you send the deposit.
Meet the teachers!
Ria Putzker
Hi! My name is Ria Putzker and I live in wonderful Vienna. I moved into the creative field very early on. My father, who is also a photographer, always helped and supported me on my way. I got a taste for dog photography mainly because of our family dog Phoebe, a sweet dachshund mix lady who has been with me since I was a teenager. I have been a commercial dog photographer since 2017 and I love my work to bits. Getting to know new dogs and people, discovering unknown locations and trying out new perspectives is great fun for me!
I am looking forward to show you my world of dog photography!
Veronika Shandor
Hi, I’m Veronika, though many know me as Ve Shandor. I’m a professional pet photographer based in Bratislava, specializing mainly in dogs, but I’m more than happy to photograph any animal brave enough to sit in front of my lens. What began as taking pictures of my two border collies, Nabu and Jada, has grown into a full-time career focused on capturing the special bond between pets and their humans.
I believe that every dog deserves a special day in front of the camera. My style is colorful, emotional, and slightly dreamy. My goal is simple: to capture not just what your pet looks like, but who they truly are—their personality, quirks, and soul. In addition to photography sessions, I also offer courses on photography and editing, helping fellow photographers develop their skills and confidence.
Over the years, I’ve been honored with several international awards, including Pet Photographer of the Year 2021 and the Golden Camera for Domesticated Animals (FEP Awards). My work has been featured in publications such as The Times, Daily Mail, The Telegraph, and the New York Post.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll likely find me hiking in the mountains, traveling for shoots abroad, or enjoying a good book—usually with Nabu and Jada by my side.
Frequently asked questions
Can you bring your own dog to the workshop?
No. We will have professional dog models arranged for the group workshop.
What if the weather is bad?
The workshop will take place regardless of the weather. The conditions and schedule can be adjusted according to the weather.
What level of photography experience is required to participate?
It’s essential that you know at least the basics about your camera and how to adjust the basic settings. Amateur and professional are allowed because during the shooting, the teachers will follow you individually and differently. The theory will start from basics, reaching also advanced topics.
What is the best time to sign up for the workshop?
Ideally, the sooner the better, as we will eventually run out of slots. Group workshops have a set minimum and maximum number of participants.
When is it paid?
A deposit of 275 Euro is immediately due after registration to fix your spot. If it is not paid after 5 days of recieving the invoice for the fee, we might open your spot again.
The rest of the payment is due about 30 days before the workshop.
What happens if I have to cancel the workshop?
40 days before the workshop – fully refundable
40-14 days before the workshop – 50% will be refunded
14 days before the workshop – not refundable