Conny Deigner (@corgigraphy_code) is a dog photographer from Lower Austria. “My journey into photography began about five years ago — thanks to my two dogs,” she explains. “What originally started as a small hobby quickly became something much more to me: photography took on an increasingly important role in my life and, over time, developed into a second professional pillar.”
Conny says that dog photography has opened doors to countries and places she likely would never have seen otherwise. “But the most beautiful part of it all is that I get to work with dogs," she says. "Dogs have always held a very special place in my heart, and this connection is clearly reflected in my work. With my photography, I want to give dog owners valuable memories of and with their best friend. Every shoot tells its own unique story – and that’s exactly what makes this work so special to me. I’m constantly inspired by getting to know different personalities and making the uniqueness of each individual dog visible.”
She continues, “For me, the dog is always at the center of attention. My focus is on capturing each dog’s individual character as authentically as possible. Appearance doesn’t matter, because every dog has its own unique beauty – and that is exactly what I aim to preserve in my images. I’m excited to see where photography will take me in the future, which places I’ll discover, and which wonderful people and dogs will cross my path.”
Keep reading as Conny shares what’s in her bag for dog photography:
Shop This Kit:
Cameras: Alpha 7R V, Alpha 7 III
Lenses: 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master, 50mm f/1.8
Cameras
Alpha 7R V: Last year, I treated myself to a small gift and upgraded to the Sony Alpha 7R V. One of my absolute favorite features is the screen. No matter how complex or demanding the location is, it makes it incredibly easy for me to place the dog perfectly in focus.
Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/1000-sec., f/2.8, ISO 1000
Another decisive factor was the significantly higher-resolution sensor. Since I often crop my images afterward, it’s important to me not to compromise on image quality.
I also opted for the battery grip to be fully prepared for any situation and, especially when traveling, not have to worry about running out of power.
Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/1250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 2000
Alpha 7 III: The Alpha 7 III was my very first camera – and therefore the starting point of my photographic journey over five years ago. Even back then, it was clear to me that I wanted to establish myself in dog photography. A reliable animal eye autofocus was therefore an absolute must. That’s exactly why I chose Sony – and the Alpha 7 III has never disappointed me. Whether it’s running dogs, challenging lighting conditions, or other demanding situations, the autofocus finds and tracks the eyes with impressive precision. Since upgrading, the Alpha 7 III has served as my reliable backup camera and continues to be my trusted companion when traveling and on vacation.
Lenses
70-200mm f/2.8 G Master: This lens is my absolute all-rounder. No matter what I want to try photographically, the 70-200mm gives me the flexibility to be ready for any moment. I especially love this lens for action shots. Whether in the rain, in the water, or on a meadow – in combination with the Alpha 7R V, I never lose focus on the dog.
Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/1250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 1000
I also frequently use it for portraits. With the longer focal length, the wide aperture of f/2.8 allows for beautiful subject separation and a very harmonious look.
Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 160
50mm f/1.8: This lens is used less frequently during shoots, but it’s a permanent part of my travel kit. Combined with the Alpha 7 III, it’s my perfect vacation companion. Thanks to its compact size, it fits into even the smallest backpack and is easy on the back – ideal for long day trips.
Accessories
In general, I try to keep my gear as light as possible and only bring what’s absolutely necessary. When dogs are involved, a thin shooting leash, spare treats, and a squeaky toy (just in case my voice isn’t enough) are essential.
(Note: These images were taken separately and then combined in order to avoid causing any stress to the pet owl.) Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 100
LED lights and soap bubbles are also always with me to create beautiful foreground lighting or playful bubble scenes.
Photo by Conny Deigner. Alpha 7R V. 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/1250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 640
Especially during the summer months, insect spray, deodorant, and blister plasters are must-haves in my bag – many of my shoots take place in the forest, and I like to be well prepared.
See more of Conny Deigner’s work on Instagram @corgigraphy_code.
