Spotlight On: The Family Dog

Written By Kelsey Cunningham

Ok ok, if you’re just here for the cute dog photos…scroll down ;) But if you’re here to find out how to prepare for a photo session with your pup - continue reading!

A Few Things to Know

1) I LOVE dogs! I am a dog person, and I absolutely love meeting and photographing your furry friends! I don’t care if your dog jumps up or covers me in dog fur. It won’t faze me, so don’t worry!

2) Dogs can add a LOT to photos. The cuteness degree will go through the roof once your pupper steps into the frame.

3) Not every dog is right for every session. Especially for outdoor sessions, bringing your energetic dog may limit the shots we’re able to get. If it’s all a hassle you just don’t want to deal with, you can always leave your dog at home.

4) Dogs of varying ages, sizes, breeds, and energy levels can be great in photos! These factors will likely influence the type of shots we’re able to get, but most dogs can get in on the action in some way.

5) Not all locations are dog-friendly. For example, Christmas tree farms oftentimes won’t allow pets. Dogs are allowed at most parks, but it’s always helpful to let me know you want to bring your pet with you for photos.

6) Safety comes first. For every dog + newborn shot you see, there is a parent’s hand cropped or edited out of frame, there to protect the newborn in case of sudden movement. I will always ask about your dog’s temperament before taking photos. I won’t even attempt a photo of just a dog and baby if the parents don’t feel it would go well.

Tips & Tricks

1) If you plan to bring your dog(s) to an outdoor session, consider asking a friend of family member to come along and hold the leash for a few dog-free photos. This isn’t necessary, but it gives us a lot more flexibility to get the best shots with the least amount of chaos.

2) Most dogs need patience and treats. Bring both!

3) If your dog will be included in your in-home photo session, consider letting your dog roam around throughout the session. This gives your pup time to calm down and get used to me, which tends to make photographing them easier! Additionally, it allows for more authentic moments with the dog. For example, your dog (or cat) may come up and sniff your newborn’s head. What a precious, natural moment! Moments like these won’t happen if your pet is gated in a different area of the house.

Now what you all came here for…

Dog licks its mouth in excitement. Family with newborn sits on bed behind dog.
A newly engaged couple huddles together with their dog, all in matching outfits. The dog licks the woman.
Family snuggles on a bed with their newborn. The family dog leans toward the mom to give her a lick.
A large dog sits beside his family, sniffing his owner leg. The woman holds a newborn baby swaddled in a blanket.
A family bend down to pet their dog. Spring flowers are behind them.
A small dog peaks into her newborn's crib while loving parents also check on the baby
2 bulldogs stand next to each other, looking adorable
A black lab stands, tongue out in front of a couch where a dad and newborn lay.
A large Rhodesian Ridgeback dog sits on a beautiful white bed.
Kelsey Cunningham
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