Sometimes when families call me to book a session, they have a simple request:
“Can we bring the dog?”
My answer? Always YES.
Because let’s be honest—your pet isn’t “just a pet.” They’re family. Sometimes the snuggliest, sassiest, best behaved (eh… debatable) family member you’ve got. And for a lot of families, the dog is the first baby. Or maybe your cat rules the house and demands equal camera time. Either way, pets belong in your family photos.
Here’s how to make it happen without losing your sanity and if you are ready to book your family photoshoot with your pup just click the button.
1. Choose the Right Location
If your pup gets nervous in busy areas, we can pick somewhere calm and open. The desert trails, a quiet park, or even your backyard can be the perfect spot. A calm environment helps pets relax—and relaxed pets make for better photos.
👉 Cats are a different story. Most cats don’t like being carted off to a strange location (unless your cat is secretly part dog). For them, home is best. We’ll get the sweetest shots of them being their regal, cozy selves right where they feel safe.
2. Bring the Bribery
Treats. Squeaky toys. Peanut butter. Whatever makes your fur kid perk up, bring it. A little motivation goes a long way. And yes, I’ve been known to make ridiculous noises just to get that perfect head tilt.
3. Don’t Stress About “Perfect” Behavior
Real talk: pets are unpredictable. That’s part of their charm. Sometimes the best photos aren’t the ones where everyone is posed, but the ones where your dog is bounding into the frame or your kiddo decides pet your pup Those candid, unscripted moments? Pure gold.
4. Recruit a Helper
This one’s a game changer: bring along a family friend. After we’ve finished with your pup’s star moment, your helper can walk them, give them water, or just keep them entertained while we focus on the rest of the session. You’ll be less stressed, and we’ll get a wider variety of photos without the background soundtrack of “sit, stay, stop eating that stick.”
5. Coordinate Outfits (Without Matching the Fur)
If your dog sheds like it’s their full-time job, avoid wearing dark clothing that shows every stray hair. Of if your pup is jet black, maybe don’t put everyone in black shirts. Contrast is your friend.
6. Let Them Be Themselves
We’ll get the “look at the camera” photo, but I also love capturing your pet’s personality. The zoomies. The lazy sprawl. The way your kiddo wraps their arms around the dog’s neck like they’re hugging their best friend. These are the little things that make your family unique.
7. Know When to Tap Out
Sometimes pets only have a 15-minute attention span. That’s okay! We’ll start with them, then let them rest while we finish the rest of your session. This way, you get the best of both worlds—photos with your fur baby and photos where no one is trying to wrangle the fur baby.
Final Thoughts
Including pets in family photos is messy, hilarious, and heartwarming—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. They’re part of your story. One day, those photos will be some of your most treasured memories. Because honestly? The dog is a child. And yes, maybe sometimes the favorite one.
Your Friendly Neighborhood Photographer – Kim
