How to Incorporate Pets into Your Family Portrait Session Seamlessly

Because they’re family too.

For many families, a portrait session wouldn’t feel complete without including the furry (or sometimes feathered!) member of the household. Whether your pet is a gentle golden retriever or an energetic kitten, you want them in the frame, but you also want the experience to feel calm, natural, and effortless.

As a professional family photographer, I’ve helped countless families include pets in their portraits beautifully. Here’s how to make it seamless: from planning to picture-perfect results.

1. Start with the Right Preparation

Just like children, pets pick up on the energy of the day. A calm owner equals a calm pet. Before the session:

• Exercise first. A quick walk or play session helps release extra energy.

• Pack the essentials. Bring favorite treats, a small water bowl, waste bags, and a toy that gets their attention.

• Groom ahead of time. A quick brushing or grooming appointment the day before ensures they look their best without adding last-minute stress.

If your pet tends to get anxious in new places, let me know during your consultation. I’ll plan for a few breaks and work at a pace that keeps everyone comfortable.

2. Choose a Setting That Fits Their Personality

A pet who loves exploring might thrive outdoors, while a quieter cat or small dog may do better in a calm studio environment. Together, we’ll select a setting that fits your family’s vibe and your pet’s comfort level.

For example:

• Studio sessions: Best for small pets or those used to indoor environments.

• Outdoor sessions: Great for dogs who love open space and natural light.

• At-home sessions: Perfect if your pet feels safest in their familiar surroundings.

3. Plan the Order of the Session

We’ll start with portraits that include your pet first. That way, they can relax (or head home) once their part is done. After that, we’ll focus on family groupings and individual portraits without the added distraction.

This approach keeps the energy high when pets are most alert and avoids over-stimulation later in the session.

4. Keep It Playful

The best images come when everyone, including your pet, is having fun. I’ll guide you through gentle poses and natural moments, using toys or sounds to grab your pet’s attention when needed.

Don’t worry if they don’t sit perfectly still. Sometimes, the most heart-melting photos come from candid interactions, your child’s laugh as the dog licks their cheek or the way your cat curls around your shoulders.

5. Trust the Process (and the Photographer)

As much as we plan, pets can be unpredictable. That’s part of their charm! My job is to anticipate those spontaneous moments and capture them beautifully.

From lighting and angles to quick timing, I’ll make sure your portraits look cohesive and elegant, even with an unexpected wag or whisker twitch.

6. A Few Extra Tips for Success

• Coordinate collars or accessories with your family’s wardrobe for a polished look.

• Bring a friend or relative to help manage your pet when they’re not in photos.

• Don’t stress if things don’t go exactly as planned. Relaxed families create the most genuine portraits.

Because Every Family Member Deserves to Be Remembered

Pets bring so much love, joy, and personality to our lives, it only makes sense to include them in the story of your family. With thoughtful planning and expert guidance, your portraits will reflect that special bond naturally and beautifully.

If you’re planning your next family portrait session in Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch and want to include your pet, I’d love to help you make it effortless.

👉 Schedule your pre-session consultation to plan the perfect portraits, for everyone you love.