Including Dogs in Family Photos

I absolutely love including dogs in family photos! I know for us, our dogs are a huge part of our family and if they weren’t in our family photos it wouldn’t feel complete. They’re not just pets, they’re part of the family story. That’s why I always love incorporating dogs in family photos whenever clients are up for it.

Yes, bringing your dog adds another layer of prep and chaos to your session but my goal is to make it as easy and stress-free as possible. The connection, personality, and genuine moments dogs bring into the session are always worth the extra effort.

Here are my favorite tips and tricks for making it a smooth and fun experience when bringing your pup along.

Let Your Dog Be Part of the Story (Not the Stress)

Whether you bring a pet or not, the best sessions always happen when you relax and just focus on being together. Same goes for dogs – we are not trying to get your dog to pose perfection but instead – let them be themselves. Sniffing, wandering, playing fetch – these moments are all part of the story with a dog so we capture it all!

When I photograph dogs in family photos, I focus on capturing interaction: dog licking your son’s face, everyone laughing as the dog gets the zoomies, quiet cuddly moments.

Bring a Helper (If You Can)

If possible, I always recommend bringing a friend or family member whose main job is to help with the dog. I usually like the helper to take the dog for a little walk to get some energy out while we take a few family photos without the dog. Then we bring in the dog for several photos and games. The helper is there to offer treats, as well as potty and walk breaks.

Use Treats, Toys and Familiar Sounds

Dogs respond best to what they already know. Bring:

• High-value treats
• A favorite toy or squeaker
• A familiar leash or harness

I’ve also been called the dog whisperer when I use sounds and gentle cues to get their attention for a split second, quick enough to get the money shot – with everyone looking and smiling!

Plan for Movement and Breaks

Just like people, dogs don’t love standing still for long periods of time – that’s why we don’t! Most of the photos will be taken of your family interacting and playing with each other and your dog. We might:

• Start with walking shots
• Move into candid interaction
• Then take short posed moments

This keeps the dogs relaxed and avoids burnout (for both pets and humans)!

Choose the Right Location

The best locations for including your dogs in family photos would be open spaces like Discovery Park or familiar places like a cozy in-home or backyard session! Did you know I also have one of the only dog-friendly studios in Seattle? The Little Glass Studio is a gorgeous location to use for all weather types where everyone and everydog is welcome!

If your dog is easily distracted, I’ll often recommend locations with fewer animals or people around so we can keep their attention a bit easier.

Keep Expectations Flexible

The magic of photographing dogs is that you can’t fully control the outcome (just like with kids)! Some of the best images come from unplanned moments. When clients embrace the unpredictability, the photos feels more alive and authentic. I’ll turn your chaos into keepsakes!

Safety First, Always

Above all, your dog’s comfort and safety come first. I always encourage:

• Keeping dogs leashed unless in a safe, enclosed space
• Watching heat, cold and stress levels
• Taking breaks as needed
• Never forcing poses or interactions

A calm dog = better photos and a better experience for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Including pets in a session is one of the most meaningful ways to document a family’s life exactly as it is right now. Dogs bring personality, movement, and emotion that elevate a gallery from beautiful to unforgettable.

If you have a pet that just needs to be part of your family photos, contact me to get the ball rolling! With a little preparation and flexibility, dogs in family photos can become some of your treasured keepsakes for years to come.