Because they are family too.

For many couples, their dog isn’t just a pet, they’re family. They’re there for the quiet nights in, the weekend adventures, the engagement celebrations, and the everyday moments that make your relationship yours. So of course it makes sense to include them in your photos.

More and more couples are choosing to bring their dogs to their sessions, and I absolutely love it. Dogs bring comfort, personality, and a kind of authenticity you can’t recreate. Some of the most meaningful moments happen when your pup sneaks in for a kiss, leans against your leg, or proudly steals the spotlight, and those often become client favorites.

If you’re thinking about bringing your dog to your session, you’re in exactly the right place. With a little planning and the right expectations, your photoshoot can feel relaxed, joyful, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone involved, including your furry family member. Below, I’m sharing everything you need to know so your session feels stress free, natural, and beautifully real.

Choose the right location
When dogs are involved, location matters more than you might think. I always recommend choosing a space that allows dogs and gives them room to explore without too many distractions. Quiet parks, open trails, beaches that allow leashed pups, or familiar neighborhood spots tend to work beautifully. The more comfortable your dog feels in the environment, the more relaxed and natural your photos will feel too.

Bring a helper if you can
This is one of my biggest tips. Having a trusted friend or family member come along to help with your dog can make the entire experience smoother. They can hold the leash, offer treats, or step in once we’ve captured photos with your pup so we can transition into couple portraits without rushing or stress.

Pack the essentials
Think of this as a mini outing for your dog. Bring high value treats, a favorite toy, water, and waste bags. Treats are especially helpful for encouraging attention and rewarding good behavior, and they can be a lifesaver when we need a quick moment of focus. If your dog has a favorite harness or collar that photographs well, even better.

Plan for flexibility
Dogs will be dogs, and that’s part of the magic. Some pups are calm and cuddly, others are curious and energetic. Either way, I always build in space for breaks, movement, and moments to let your dog just be themselves. The goal is never perfection. It’s connection. Some of the most meaningful images come from the in between moments when things aren’t perfectly posed.

Trust the process
You do not need your dog to sit still, look at the camera, or behave perfectly for your session to be a success. I’ll guide you gently, work with your dog’s personality, and focus on capturing real moments as they unfold. Whether that’s a playful tug on the leash, a nose nuzzle, or a quiet moment leaning into you, those details are what make your photos feel alive and true to you.

A final note

Including your dog in your photoshoot is about honoring the life you’re building together, the routines, the adventures, and the love that fills your everyday moments. If your dog is part of your story, they deserve a place in your photos too. And I promise, we’ll make it feel easy, joyful, and completely you.

If you’re ready to plan a dog friendly session or have questions about locations, logistics, or timing, I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to document your love, paws and all. 🐾