Why You Should Include Your Pets in Your Family, Maternity & Newborn Photoshoot: Capturing Unforgettable Family Bonds

What is it they say about working with children and animals...? Oh right - don't do it.

Orrrrr what about you do both?

I LOVE animals. If you want your fur baby in your photo session - I am here for it!

Incorporating Your Pets in Your Photoshoot: Capturing a Special Bond

When planning a photoshoot, whether for a maternity session or an in-home newborn shoot, one of the most heartwarming things you can do is include your pets. Pets are more than just animals in our homes—they are family members who share in the everyday moments and milestones. Their presence adds an undeniable layer of love and joy to your photos, making them even more meaningful and memorable.

Pets in Maternity Sessions: A Growing Family

Pregnancy is a special time, filled with anticipation and excitement for the new addition to your family. But don’t forget the other family members who are just as eager for the little one’s arrival—your pets! Including your dog or other pets in your maternity session is a beautiful way to highlight the bond between them and the parents-to-be. Pets can sense change, and capturing the look of excitement, curiosity, or calmness in their eyes as they sense the growing family creates timeless, authentic moments.

Imagine a photo of you gently cradling your baby bump while your dog sits by your side, ears perked up, sensing the new chapter about to begin. These moments are precious not just for you, but also for your furry friend, who will soon become a sibling to the little one they’ve been sharing your home with.

Pets in Newborn Sessions: An Extension of the Family

When your little one arrives, they’re not just welcomed by you and your partner but by your pets too. The first moments of a newborn’s life are full of new sights, sounds, and experiences, and your pet is right there alongside the family, learning how to interact with their new human sibling. Including pets in newborn sessions can show the gentle connection between your baby and their fur sibling, capturing moments of curiosity, tenderness, and the deep bond that forms so naturally between children and pets.

One of the most moving parts of any newborn shoot is when the pet and baby interact for the first time. A dog carefully sniffing the baby’s tiny hand, or a cat curiously watching the newborn sleep, are all moments of pure magic. These photos preserve the love and innocence of the beginning of a new family dynamic, where pets take on the role of guardians, protectors, and companions for life.

Why Pets Matter in Your Photos

Including your pets in your photoshoot isn’t just about getting a cute picture—it’s about documenting the bond between people and their pets. The unconditional love that pets give, their loyalty, and their genuine companionship make them an integral part of your story. Whether it’s a dog that’s been with you through thick and thin, or a cat that curls up with your newborn for naps, their presence in your photos makes your family portrait complete.

Pets are family. They offer us laughter, comfort, and companionship. Including them in photoshoots allows you to freeze these precious moments in time, reminding you and your family of the beautiful relationships that make your world complete. These photos will not only be a beautiful memory for you but will also be something your children can look back on, seeing the very first moments of connection with their lifelong friends—those loyal companions who were there from the very beginning.

Tips for Including Pets in Your Photoshoot:

Prepare Them in Advance: Pets, especially dogs, can be unpredictable during a photoshoot. Make sure they are comfortable with the space, especially if you're having the shoot at home. You might want to bring them in a few minutes early to get them settled and calm before the session starts.
Keep Them Safe: Always prioritize the safety of both your newborn and your pet. If your pet is excitable or unsure of the new baby, it might be a good idea to have someone on hand to help manage them during the session.
Capture Natural Moments: While posed shots are great, some of the best photos come from candid moments. Let your pets roam around during the shoot and capture their natural interactions with the family. These are often the images that truly tell the story of your home and relationships.
Get Creative: Pets can bring personality to your photoshoot. Use their playful nature to create fun, candid shots. Whether they’re jumping into your lap or snuggling up next to your newborn, these spontaneous moments add an element of fun and warmth to your shoot.
Be Patient: Pets, like kids, don’t always follow instructions. Take your time and be patient. Some of the most heartfelt moments can happen when you least expect it!

Have I Convinced You Yet?

Including your pets in your photoshoot is a beautiful way to preserve the love and joy they bring into your life. Whether you're capturing your pregnancy, welcoming a newborn into your family, or simply commemorating your everyday moments, pets add something truly special to your photos. They are part of the journey, part of your family, and their presence in your photos will create memories that last a lifetime.

At the end of the day, pets are more than just furry companions—they are the silent witnesses to your family's growth, the first to welcome new additions, and the steadfast protectors of your children. And that’s a bond worth capturing!

If you're interested in including your pets in your maternity or newborn photoshoot, I’d love to help you create lasting memories of your growing family. Whether you're looking for a cosy in-home session or a fun outdoor shoot, let's make your vision come to life!

Ready to book your session or have questions?

Feel free to get in touch with me using the details below:

📧 Email: photography.moniquerenee@gmail.com

📞 Phone: 0431321311

Contact me today to book your session or to learn more about how I can help capture these special moments for you and your loved ones.

I'm ready to learn more!