📍Unleashed Location Scouting: How Sniffspot Helps Me Find the Perfect Photo Spots

Amy Zounes
May 31
3 min read

Weaver the Border Collie at a Sniffspot in Ghent, NY

Location Matters

When it comes to photographing dogs, the where matters almost as much as the who. A perfect location can help a dog relax, express their personality, and truly shine on camera. Over the past year, I’ve discovered a game-changer for finding those perfect pet photo session spots: Sniffspot.

If you haven’t heard of it yet, Sniffspot is kind of like Airbnb for dog-friendly private spaces. Hosts list their fenced yards, fields, woodlands, and other dog-safe properties that you can rent by the hour. It was originally designed as a safe place for off-leash play — but for a pet photographer? It’s gold! Whether you live in Albany, Troy, Saratoga or beyond, there is a Sniffspot for you.

🐾 Why I Love Using Sniffspot for Dog Photo Sessions:

1. Private + Controlled = Less Stress for Dogs

Many of the dogs I photograph are rescues, seniors, or reactive — dogs (and owners) who may not feel comfortable in busy public parks. Sniffspot offers private, secure spaces where dogs can roam free and just be themselves. That freedom makes for genuine, relaxed photos and a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

2. Unique, Scenic Backdrops

From open fields and wooded trails to backyard gardens and even mini-farms, Sniffspot locations come with character. These aren’t cookie-cutter parks — they’re often charming, quirky, and full of natural textures and light that make each session visually unique.

3. Customizable for Every Dog’s Needs

Need a fenced yard for a flight-risk pup? Looking for a quiet field for a dog who’s shy or reactive? Want a natural setting that feels wild but isn’t far from home? I can filter Sniffspot listings to match exactly what the dog needs — and that flexibility is huge.

4. More Focus, Less Distraction

Because Sniffspot sessions are private, we don’t have to worry about off-leash dogs running through the frame or random people interrupting our shoot. It’s just me, the pup, and their person — which makes for a safe, low-pressure environment where the magic can unfold naturally.

📸 A Few Tips for Using Sniffspot for Photo Sessions in New York:

Scout in advance: As a pet photographer, I always check out the listing photos and reviews, and if it’s a new spot, I schedule a quick tour prior to the session day or I arrive early to walk the space and plan my shots.
Chat with the host: Most Sniffspot hosts are pet lovers and super accommodating — many are thrilled to know their space is being used for photography. Always check first though just to make sure it's ok.
Pack light, shoot smart: Some spots are rustic or remote, so I keep my gear streamlined, but make sure to pack all the essentials in my backpack. I'll save what those essentials are for another blog post;)

💬 Final Thoughts:

Sniffspot has been an unexpected but super invaluable tool in my pet photography. It allows me to create stress-free, safe, and soulful experiences for the dogs I photograph in the Capital Region — and to find new inspiration in every setting.

Because after all, every tail has a story to tell — and Sniffspot helps set the stage.

Interested in booking a session or want to recommend a great Sniffspot? I’d love to hear from you! You can always reach out via hello@amyzphotography.com or follow along on Instagram @amy_z_photography for behind-the-scenes peeks at my latest sessions.