-Can I bring my dogs to the photo session? - she asks hesitantly, afraid of imposing.

- Absolutely! - I reply

It always brings a big smile to my face when families request their dogs to be in their photo session. They are part of the family, therefore should be in the family pictures.

I love dogs and I love to photograph them. Just as their “humans” they have their own personality and I enjoy capturing that on camera.

It can be a bit challenging, sometimes, to capture the dog’s attention. However, I usually get them to look at me by squeaking a toy, or by my famous “good boy” in a super high pitch voice… that never fails, they look at me, ears pop up, and head tilted trying to figure out what on earth was that sound...I do have to warn the “humans” and apologize in advance for the annoying sound but they endure , knowing that it is all for a good picture.

Some tips when taking family pictures with your dogs:

You look at the camera and smile. Be ready and let the photographer capture the dog’s attention.
Bring dog treats and water. Dogs look at where the bag of treats are.
Arrive a little earlier to the location and let the dog explore before the session
Make sure your dog has been well fed, hydrated, and walked before the session.
Keep your dog in a leash at all times, we want to make sure they never escape trying to get the squirrel.
Put an accessory on your dog, bandanas, or bows are simple, bring a pop of color, and make the pups look cute.

Next time you are hesitant to bring them to the session, do not be. Dogs are always welcome in my sessions and your family photos will be adorable.