As an Edmonton newborn photographer and a passionate dog lover, I understand how much your pets mean to you. For many of us, our pets were our first babies, so including them in your newborn session can make your photos even more meaningful. I absolutely love working with families who want to incorporate their furry friends into these special moments. To ensure the experience is smooth, safe, and enjoyable for everyone involved, here are my top tips for including pets in your newborn session:

1. Only Well-Behaved Pets Allowed in the Studio

Your pet’s behavior plays a big role in how successful your Edmonton newborn photography session will be. If your dog is aggressive, overly excitable, or uncomfortable in new environments, the studio may not be the best place for them. You know your dog best, and safety is always the priority—for your baby, your pet, and everyone in the studio. If your pet is calm and well-mannered, they are more than welcome to join!

2. Bring a Pet Handler

Having a dedicated pet handler present during the session is invaluable. This person can help manage your dog when they’re not actively involved in photos, ensuring your session stays relaxed and focused. Whether it’s a family member or a trusted friend, their support can make the process so much smoother.

3. Come Prepared with Treats and Familiar Items

Treats are a fantastic way to grab your dog’s attention and encourage good behavior. Bringing a favorite toy or blanket can also help them feel more comfortable in the studio. Familiar items can ease nerves and create a positive experience for your pet.

4. Consider Bringing a Kennel

If your dog is kennel-trained, bringing their kennel is a great idea. It provides a safe, familiar space for them to rest while they’re not in the spotlight. This can be especially helpful if your dog becomes anxious or overstimulated in new environments.

5. Plan for Limited Involvement

If you only want your pet in one or two family photos, having someone available to take them home or outside afterward can be a game-changer. This ensures that the rest of the session can continue uninterrupted while still capturing the precious moments with your furry family member.

6. Know Your Dog’s Personality

At the end of the day, some dogs are more photogenic than others. Whether your pup is a natural in front of the camera or a little shy, we’ll work together to make the session as stress-free as possible.

A Personal Funny Story

One of my favorite studio sessions was with Baby Celine and her three furry siblings. These dogs were so quiet and well-behaved, making the session an absolute joy. Funny enough, my own dog was upstairs with my husband during the shoot. My husband stepped out momentarily, and my dog decided to make an unexpected appearance in the studio! Thankfully, she’s a calm and quiet girl, and my clients loved her. Don’t worry, though—she’s kennel-trained and usually stays in her kennel during sessions.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating your pet into your studio newborn session can create beautiful, heartfelt memories. With a little preparation and realistic expectations, we can make sure the experience is enjoyable for everyone involved—humans and pets alike! Below are some highlights from my most successful pet-inclusive sessions. Let’s create something special together!

If you’re looking for a professional Edmonton newborn photographer who understands the bond between you and your pets, I’d love to help. Contact me to book your session and let’s celebrate all the members of your family, furry ones included!

See more newborn sessions featuring dogs! Check me out on Instagram

Kelsie Kelly is an experienced Maternity and Newborn photographer, proudly photographing YEG newborns and mamas for 11 years.

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