Resource Blog

Tips When Bringing your Dog(s) Along for Photos

Thinking about including your dog(s) in your upcoming photo session? That’s AMAZING! I absolutely love when clients want to include their pets, and I will always say yes to this request. After all, our animals are such a meaningful part of our lives and families.

There are just a few things to consider — and some best practices — to ensure the experience feels seamless and stress-free for everyone involved. Keep scrolling down to learn more!

Pros:

  • Including your pet allows us to truly document this season of life with them.

  • Animals often bring comfort, connection, and beautifully candid moments — especially for those who may feel a bit nervous in front of the camera.

Cons (there are very few of them):  

  • As much as we adore our pets, they can occasionally become a distraction — both for their humans and within the frame.

  • Even the most well-behaved dog may pop into moments you didn’t intend, or bring an energy that differs from the overall vision (think cozy newborn snuggles paired with a very enthusiastic pup).

Tips for including your pet(s) in your photo session: 

  1. Choose a location that suits their personality. (For example, if your dog loves to swim and you’d prefer they stay dry, a beach may be a challenge.)

  2. Bring their favorite treats for moments when we need them to stay in a specific spot.

  3. Pack the essentials you’d bring to the park — water, a bowl, leash, waste bags, etc. — so they stay comfortable and we remain respectful of the space.

  4. If your dog has lots of energy, a long walk or play session beforehand can help prevent them from thinking the shoot is playtime.

  5. Consider bringing a trusted friend or family member to help — and to step in when it’s time for a few photos without your pup.

I’m always happy to help research whether our chosen location allows dogs. And just like people, pets can show up on session day feeling more excited or more nervous than expected — and that’s okay.

From personal experience: I brought Lola to my own studio headshots (shoutout to Kristen at @the2654project). I imagined she’d cuddle for a few photos and then happily enjoy a treat nearby while I finished solo shots. Instead, the new environment made her nervous, and she stayed glued to my feet the entire time. Lesson learned — I should’ve brought backup help! We adjusted the plan and ended up including her in even more photos than expected, and those images are now some of my most treasured.

Don’t worry — it always works out. Together, we’ll create the moments you’re dreaming of. Being prepared simply helps everything flow a bit more smoothly. I can’t wait to meet your furry companions.

xx, Michelle + Lolita