Family Photography with Pets | Your Fur Babies are Family Too!
Family photography and pets belong together. We are often asked this: “Can we include our pet in the session?” The answer is always yes, and honestly, why wouldn’t you? Pets are family. Whether it’s a goofy golden retriever, a sleepy cat, or your prize-winning mini donkey (hey, we’ve seen it), your furry (or feathered or hooved) friend deserves a spot in the frame.
Family photography with pets (and yes, couple or engagement photography with pets, too) works best when we treat them like any other subject: with attention, care, and a little planning. The best photos happen when everyone (including your fur babies) is relaxed and engaged.
Prepping for a Successful Pet-Friendly Photo Session
A bit of prep goes a long way toward making sure the shoot is smooth and enjoyable—for you, your pet, and us behind the lens. Here’s how to get started:
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Desensitize the car ride: If your pet only gets in the car to go to the vet, take them on a few short, fun drives beforehand. This builds a more positive association and helps reduce anxiety.
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Brush up on commands: “Sit” and “stay” are gold. If your pet knows how to focus when it matters, we’ll get better images, faster.
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Do a test run with large animals: If we’re photographing horses or other large pets, do a mock session so they’re familiar with posing and movement cues.
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Bring treats and toys: We’re not above bribery. Their favorite snack or squeaker toy can be the difference between chaos and magic.
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Designate a handler: Having someone to take over pet duty once we’ve gotten their portraits lets you relax and finish the session without juggling a leash.
Outfit Planning for Pet-Inclusive Family Photos
There’s an art to looking great with your pet, especially when they’re furry and affectionate. A few quick style tips:
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Avoid hair magnets: Skip the black tops and textured fabrics that cling to fur. Think soft colors or neutrals that won’t highlight every stray hair.
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Choose complementary tones: Choose a palette that harmonizes with your pet’s coloring. This keeps the overall image looking clean and cohesive.
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Bring a change: Consider layering or packing an extra shirt or sweater. That way, if things get messy (they often do), you’ve got options.
Family sessions with pets are unpredictable in the best way. They bring energy, joy, and often a whole lot of laughter. The key is embracing the chaos a little, trusting us to guide the process, and letting those small, unscripted moments shine. Contact us to book your session!
We’ll be ready with a camera in one hand and a treat in the other.
