Gift Ideas
Custom Pet Photo Cases: Turn Your Dog or Cat Into Everyday Art
Shoot at your pet's eye level in natural light, fill the frame while keeping their face out of the corners, and use a treat or toy to get an alert, ears-up look. Then upload the sharpest version in Design Your Own.
Few custom cases get more smiles than one with a pet on it. A dog mid-zoomies, a cat loafing in a sunbeam — it's the kind of everyday keepsake people carry for years. Here's how to nail it.
Getting a great pet photo
- Get down to their level. Shoot at eye height, not from above — it's more flattering and personal.
- Use natural light. Near a window or outdoors in daylight beats a dim room every time, especially for dark fur.
- Fill the frame, but leave room. Get close enough to see detail, but keep their face away from the corners and the camera cutout.
- Grab their attention. A treat or a squeaky toy held near the camera earns you those alert, ears-up shots.
Tricky pets, better shots
- Black or very dark fur: shoot in bright, soft daylight and expose for the pet, not the background, so their features don't disappear into shadow.
- White or fluffy pets: avoid harsh midday sun that blows out detail; open shade is your friend.
- Two or more pets: a calm moment (a shared nap or a treat line-up) beats trying to freeze the chaos — or use two clean solo portraits side by side.
Design ideas that work
A single clean portrait is timeless. You can also go playful with a name added, a fun background color, or a heartfelt memorial tribute for a pet who's no longer with you. Simple and heartfelt tends to beat busy.
Make it
Upload your favorite pet photo in Design Your Own, preview it on your exact phone, and pick your case style and finish. Want it to print razor-sharp? Skim our photo selection tips first. A pet case also makes a thoughtful gift for the animal lover in your life.
Last reviewed: July 2026.
