#Yes Your Pet Can Join
We get this question all the time, and the answer is always the same: absolutely. Your pet is family. If they live in your home and greet you at the door every day, they deserve to be in the photos too.
The only thing we ask is that you mention your pet when you book. That way we can plan the session flow around their involvement and make sure we have the right amount of time built in.
#Timing: Baby First Pet After
We always start with baby. Those sleepy, curled-up poses happen best in the first stretch of the session when your newborn is most settled. Bringing a pet into the mix too early can shift the energy in the room.
Once we have the solo baby shots and any parent poses wrapped up, that is when we bring your pet in. Keep them in another room until we are ready. It keeps everyone calm and gives us the best chance at beautiful frames.
#Dogs Cats and Everything Else
Dogs tend to be the easiest to work with because most know basic commands like sit and stay. A well-exercised dog who has burned off some energy before the session will usually settle right into place beside the baby.
Cats are a different story, but not a harder one. They are fantastic for candid moments. A cat sniffing the baby's toes or curling up nearby makes for some of the sweetest, most natural images. We just follow their lead instead of posing them.
#Keeping Everyone Safe
Safety is non-negotiable. Your pet is never left alone with the baby during the session, not even for a second. We always ask that a second adult be present to handle the pet while we focus on capturing the moment.
That second person is the real MVP. They hold the leash, offer treats at the right moment, and gently guide the pet into position. It makes a huge difference in how smoothly everything goes.
#Tips for a Smooth Session
If you have a dog, take them for a long walk or a solid play session before we arrive. A tired dog is a cooperative dog. This single step can transform the entire experience.
Have their favorite treats ready and within reach. Treats are our secret weapon for getting a pet to look at the camera, sit still for three seconds, or simply stay in one spot long enough for us to fire off a few frames.
One big advantage of in-home sessions is that your pet is already comfortable. They know the smells, the sounds, the layout. That familiar environment means less anxiety and more natural behavior, which always translates to better photos.
#Managing Expectations
Pet photos are bonus frames. We aim for two to three really good shots with your pet, and if we get more, that is wonderful. But the core of the session is always your newborn and your family.
Animals are unpredictable, and that is part of the charm. Some of our favorite images have come from completely unscripted moments: a dog resting their chin near the baby, a cat walking through the frame at exactly the right time. Two or three beautiful frames with your pet is a win, and we will make sure you get them.