How to Include Pets in Your Family Portrait Session

Including your furry family members in your family photos sounds like a dream, right? If you’re in Pittsburgh and considering family photos with pets, you might be wondering, “Will my toddler and Golden Retriever both cooperate for one nice photo?” Trust me, you’re not alone in that thought.

I’ve had sessions where the family dog totally steals the show—like one sweet, elderly dog who posed like a pro the entire time. Two days later, I got a message that she had suddenly gotten sick and crossed the rainbow bridge. I was heartbroken for that family but also so thankful they made the last-minute decision to include her. Now, they have those images to remember her exactly as she was—loved, loyal, and forever part of their story.

It’s moments like that which remind me why I always say: yes, bring the dog. Bring the cat. Bring the chaos. These are the real moments that matter.

Why Bringing Pets to a Family Session Can Be So Worth It

If you’re a Pittsburgh-area mom juggling a second pregnancy, a toddler, and a family dog, you might already be stretched thin on energy. Planning for family photos may feel like another task on an endless list. Adding your pet into the mix can make it feel overwhelming.

But here’s the thing—pets are family too. They’re in the background of your everyday life, snuggled on the couch next to your toddler. They share in the happy (and hectic) moments of your growing family. Including them doesn’t have to add stress to your session. In fact, with just a bit of prep, it can bring out even more joy.

I approach pets the same way I do toddlers in sessions—with plenty of flexibility, a calm mindset, and a pocket full of treats.

Tips for a Smooth Family Photo Session with Pets with a Pittsburgh Family Photographer

1. Choose a Pet-Friendly, Low-Traffic Location
   When we’re planning an outdoor session and you’d like to bring your dog, I’ll help you pick a location that is:
   • Dog-friendly
   • Has plenty of open space
   • Isn’t too crowded with other people or dogs
   This helps keep distractions low and your pup more relaxed. And if we’re indoors—even better. In-home sessions are an easy yes for animals, as long as they’re safe and friendly (and I don’t mind a little fur on my lens if it means getting that perfect moment).
2. Bring a Support Person
   Bringing someone along whose only job is “dog duty” can make a huge difference. While I’m capturing cozy toddler snuggles or a solo shot of you with your bump, your helper can hold the leash. They can take your pup for a quick walk if they get restless. That way, you’re not juggling everything at once. No extra hands? That’s okay too. I’ve had plenty of sessions where I held the leash myself while snapping away—your dog lounges nearby while we finish up any pet-free photos. We make it work.
3. Pack Treats and Patience
   Just like we bring snacks to help toddlers through a longer session, dogs do better with a few treats in your pocket too. They can help them sit still for a couple of shots or reward them for being part of the fun—treats go a long way. Don’t worry if your dog isn’t posing like a model. Some of my favorite images are imperfect—your toddler kissing the dog, your pup flopped on your lap mid-snuggle. That’s the good stuff.

Why It’s Worth It to include your pet in your family photo session

Your dog curled up on the nursery rug. Your child stroking their ears as you read bedtime stories. The quiet, almost unnoticed way your pet is woven into those everyday moments.

These are the stories that matter.

I’ve photographed families where the dog wasn’t 100% into the session—maybe they were older, or just a little camera shy. Still, the images we created turned out to be favorites. A kiss from the dog, a sweet moment with the kids—that’s all we’re really after. Not perfection, but presence.

Adding a pet to the session might feel like a small detail. Yet, years from now, it may be one of the most meaningful choices you made.

Ready to Include Your Pet in Your Family Photos in Pittsburgh?

If you’ve been wondering whether to bring your dog or cat (or yes, even your bird!) into your maternity or family photo session around Pittsburgh, my answer is: let’s do it.

I’ve got you covered—from helping you choose a peaceful, pet-friendly location to snapping those sweet, in-between moments you’ll treasure forever.

If you’re dreaming of a session that embraces your full, beautifully messy, wonderfully loved family—paws included—Click here to start planning your session. Let’s make something meaningful together.

If you are interested in seeing more of my work, you can check out my portfolio here!