When it comes to family photography with dogs, many Boise parents wonder whether their four-legged family member should join the photo session. After photographing countless families with their beloved pets over the years, I can confidently say the answer is a resounding yes! Dogs add warmth, personality, and authentic moments that make family portraits truly special.
Whether you’re considering a DIY approach in your backyard or booking a professional session, understanding how to successfully include your dog will help you capture beautiful memories that showcase your complete family. Let’s explore why your furry friend deserves a spot in front of the camera and how to make it happen seamlessly.
Why Dogs Belong in Family Photos
They’re Natural Comedians
Dogs have an uncanny ability to provide comic relief exactly when you need it most. Picture this: you’re mid-pose during your family session when your golden retriever decides to shake off after discovering a puddle, or your beagle spots a squirrel and goes into full hunting mode.
These spontaneous moments often become the most treasured photos from your session – the ones that make you laugh every time you see them on your wall.
DIY Tip: If you’re taking photos at home, embrace these silly moments rather than trying to control them. Some of the best family photos happen when everyone (including the dog) is just being themselves.
Professional Advantage: Experienced photographers know how to anticipate and capture these candid moments while still getting the composed shots you want, just like this adorable shot at the end of a 1st birthday cake smash where the family dog licked everyone’s frosting covered fingers!
They’re a Part of the Family
Let’s face it – dogs are family members! We love them, walk them, and sometimes let them sleep on the bed or watch movies with us on the couch. They’re there during different seasons of our lives, providing unconditional love through major milestones. Whether you patiently waited on a breeders list for the perfect puppy or adopted an older dog from the Boise Humane Society, they deserve to be included in documenting life’s big moments.
This is especially meaningful for newborn photography sessions. Your dog was likely your “first baby,” and including them in newborn photos creates a beautiful story of your growing family. These images capture the sweet (and sometimes curious) introduction between your furry child and your human baby – moments that become incredibly precious as both your children grow up together.
Safety Note for Newborn Sessions: Professional photographers are trained in safely incorporating pets into newborn sessions, always prioritizing baby’s safety while capturing these meaningful family dynamics. Never place your newborn directly with your dog unsupervised, even if they’ve always been gentle. Newborns have different scents and sounds that can trigger unexpected reactions in even the most well-behaved pets. If in doubt, a composite shot is always an option to get them safely in the “same” frame!
Dogs Bring Out Genuine Emotions
There’s something magical about the way family members interact with their dogs. Children naturally light up around their furry siblings, and adults often show their softer side when snuggling with their pets. These authentic interactions translate into photographs that feel real and emotionally connected rather than stiff and posed.
When you’re planning family photography with dogs, think about the special bonds each family member has with your pet. Maybe your toddler loves to give belly rubs, or perhaps dad has a special game he plays with the dog. These personal connections create the foundation for meaningful photographs.
They Provide Natural Distractions
Nervous about being in front of the camera? Your dog can be the perfect icebreaker. Focusing on your pet helps family members relax and forget about the photographer, resulting in more natural expressions and body language. This is especially helpful for families with young children who might be camera-shy or restless.
DIY Approach: Start your at-home photo session by playing with your dog. Let everyone interact naturally while you snap photos – you’ll be amazed at how quickly the camera anxiety disappears.
Professional Approach: Experienced photographers know exactly how to use your dog as a natural mood-lifter. We’ll guide you to get down on your dog’s level for snuggles, encourage belly rubs and ear scratches, and capture those genuine smiles that happen when you’re focused on loving your pet rather than posing for the camera.
Professional photographers are skilled at directing these natural interactions while positioning everyone for beautiful lighting and composition.
Practical Tips for Successful Dog Photography Sessions
Location Considerations for Boise Families
Boise offers incredible outdoor locations for family photography with dogs. The Boise Foothills provide stunning backdrops and plenty of space for dogs to roam, while Ann Morrison Park offers beautiful riverside settings. For families preferring indoor sessions, many professional studios (like ours!) welcome well-behaved pets.
Research Before You Go: Not all trails allow off-leash dogs, and some parks prohibit pets altogether. Always check local regulations and trail requirements before heading out for your photo session. Many Boise Foothills trails require dogs to be leashed, while some designated off-leash areas like the Military Reserve offer more freedom for action shots.
Safety First: Always keep your dog’s safety in mind when choosing locations. Avoid areas with heavy traffic, and be mindful of seasonal hazards like foxtails in tall grass or hot pavement in summer.
Essential Supplies to Bring
Successful dog photography sessions require a bit of preparation:
- High-value treats for motivation and rewards
- Favorite toys to capture playful interactions
- Water bowl and fresh water, especially during Idaho’s hot summers
- Towels for muddy paws (Boise weather can be unpredictable!)
- An extra human helper to assist with leash management
Managing Energy Levels
The key to great photos is timing your session when your dog is alert but not overly excited. A moderate walk before the session can help burn off excess energy without exhausting your pet. Avoid feeding a large meal right before photos to prevent discomfort.
When to Go DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
DIY Family Photography with Dogs
Taking your own family photos with dogs can work well for casual, everyday moments. Use your phone’s portrait mode, natural lighting from windows, and your dog’s favorite spots in your home or yard. This approach is perfect for documenting daily life and creating social media content.
Best DIY Scenarios:
- Casual lifestyle photos at home
- Seasonal updates for holiday cards
- Milestone moments like your dog’s birthday
Professional Photography Benefits
While DIY has its place, professional family photography with dogs offers significant advantages. Experienced photographers understand animal behavior, know how to work with unpredictable subjects, and have the technical skills to capture sharp images even when your dog is in motion.
Professional sessions also allow all family members to be in the photos together – no one has to be behind the camera missing out on the memories.
On a personal note- I used to call our sweet girl Mayla a “light sucking entity” because her all black fur was wildly difficult to photograph. I routinely had to turn to advanced Photoshop skills to bring her face out of the shadows. If you too have a light sucking entity its well worth hiring a professional to capture all that black!
Making the Most of Your Session
Embrace the Chaos
The most important advice for family photography with dogs? Embrace the unexpected. Your perfectly planned pose might get interrupted by a case of the zoomies, but that spontaneous moment of pure joy often becomes the favorite photo from the entire session.
Focus on Connection Over Perfection
Rather than forcing your dog into uncomfortable positions, focus on capturing the natural connections within your family. Let your children play with the dog, allow for snuggle time, and document the way your family naturally interacts with your pet.
Creating Lasting Memories
Including your dog in family photos ensures that years from now, you’ll have visual reminders of this special family member who brought so much joy to your household. Dogs have relatively short lifespans compared to humans, making these photographs even more precious as time passes. We lost our dog after 15 years together and are so grateful for the professional family photos we have with her!
Whether you choose to DIY your family photography with dogs or invest in professional portraits, the key is capturing the authentic love and connection that exists between your family and your furry friend. These images will become treasured keepsakes that tell the complete story of your family during this season of life.
Ready to include your dog in your next family photo session? Remember that the best photographs happen when everyone – including your four-legged family member – feels comfortable and loved.
LEAVE A COMMENT
Comments