Tips for a Family Photo Session with your Dog

Preparing for a Photo Session that includes your Dog | Austin Family Photographer

1. LOCATION

You’ve booked a Family or Senior Portrait Session, and want to include your dog. What should you do next? The first step is to pick the right location.

Let your photographer know if your dog is comfortable around other people and good around other dogs. Also let them know if your dog would be okay in an urban setting or if you prefer a park. Is your dog older and not able to walk as far? Let your photographer know that.

Here’s a blog post with some of my favorite dog-friendly locations around Austin.

This family chose Balcones District Park, a park near their house in North Austin, for their family photo session.

balcones district park family photo session including their dog

2. RECRUIT A HANDLER

Decide if your dog will be in all of the photos. If not, make a plan for where your dog will be when not being photographed. Some options include recruiting a friend or family member to hold the dog when it’s not being photographed. If your dog would be okay with their leash attached to a nearby tree while just the family is being photographed, plan for that.

For this family, they brought along the grandparents – who also got to be in some photos when not in charge of the dog.

grandparents at family photo session

3. PREP YOUR PET

Before your photo session, give your dog a bath or take them to the groomers to make sure they’re looking their best.
Pick out a clean collar and leash that compliments your family’s outfits.
Let the dog have some playtime or go on a walk before your session to burn off some energy.
Get to your location early to let your dog sniff out the location and do a bit of exploring first.

small white dog sitting on its owner's lap during a family photo session

4. WHAT TO BRING

Bring treats and toys to help get and keep your dog’s attention.

If it’s a hot day, also pack some water for your dog.

And don’t forget the poop bags just in case.

If we’ll be going to a spot with water, bring a towel for drying off afterwards.

family photo session with pet dog at balcones district park in austin

5. WHAT TO EXPECT

Depending on your dog’s personality, we will get a mix of posed and candid shots with the family. I’ll also aim to get photos of just the dog by themselves as well.

Some prompts may include walking your dog, giving it lots of love and pets and playing with a toy together.

Be patient and embrace any chaos that may come.

Hope these tips help you feel ready to bring your beloved family pet to your next family photo session!

All your loved ones should be documented in your yearly family photos, especially the furry ones.

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Please contact me if you’d like to book your own Family photo session in Austin, Texas. Explore more photo sessions on my blog.

stephanie friedman headshot

Stephanie Friedman first picked up a camera in high school, went on to study photojournalism at the University of Texas (Hook ‘Em), then worked as a photo researcher in educational publishing for over 20 years.

Besides all that, she’s been photographing Families and Seniors for the last 10 years. You can count on her to be communicative and organized before your session. She’ll help you feel relaxed and confident during your session. And you’ll have a smile on your face after your session once you see your new photos.