One of the questions I hear from Atlanta families is, “Can our dog be in our newborn photos?”
The answer is always yes.
Whether you have a playful Labrador, a senior dog, a curious cat, or another beloved pet, they’re family. I never want parents to feel like they have to leave them out of such an important milestone.
One day, these photographs won’t just remind you of when your baby was tiny. They’ll remind you of everyone who loved them from the very beginning.
My First Babies Had Four Legs
I was single for most of my adult life.
I moved to the United States when I was 19, traveled constantly for work, and became very comfortable being independent. Growing up, I always wanted a dog but never had one.
So when I finally had a place of my own, I adopted a Boxer. Then I adopted another.
If you knew me back then, you rarely saw me without my two big dogs. They were my babies long before I became a mom.
When I had my first child, there was never a question about whether my dogs would be in our newborn photos. They belonged there just as much as we did.
That portrait still hangs on the wall in our home today.
By the time my twins were born, we’d lost one of our Boxers. I specifically asked our photographer to include the one we had left in our newborn session.
When I received the gallery, I searched through every image.
There wasn’t a single photo of her.
I was devastated.
Not long afterward, we lost her too.
Thankfully, I still have that framed portrait from my oldest child’s newborn session with both of my dogs. My twins often point to it and ask who they are.
Every time, it makes me smile.
Those photographs remind us they’ll always be part of our family’s story.
Your Pets Are Always Welcome
Many families planning newborn photos with pets hesitate to ask if their dog or cat can be included. They worry their dog might be too energetic, wonder if I’m comfortable around animals, or assume pets aren’t welcome during the session.
Please know this: your pets are always welcome.
In fact, I chose in-home lifestyle newborn photography for my own family because I wanted my dogs to be part of those memories.
In-home newborn photos with pets work so well because everyone feels comfortable in their own home—including your pets. Familiar smells, favorite spots to curl up, and everyday routines create moments that simply can’t happen in a studio.
What to Expect During Newborn Photos With Pets
When I arrive, I don’t right away pull out my camera and expect your dog to cooperate. Instead, I give them time to get comfortable.
I always let pets approach me on their own. If they come over, I kneel down, offer my hand, and let them sniff me. Even energetic dogs usually settle down once they realize I’m simply another person visiting their home.
Before we begin, I’ll ask a few questions about your pet:
- What word makes them sit?
- How do you get their attention?
- Is there a favorite toy or sound that makes them look toward the camera?
Those little details help everything go more smoothly.
We Start With Everyone Together
One thing I’ve learned over the years is to photograph the whole family together first—including your pets.
We begin with the whole family together, then let the session unfold naturally. After the family portraits, your dog is free to relax, explore the house, or wander back into the session whenever they choose.
The moments I love most usually aren’t planned. It’s when your dog curls up beside the couch while you feed your baby, peeks into the nursery, or rests at your feet as your newborn sleeps in your arms.
Those unscripted interactions often become the images families cherish most.
Every Family Looks Different
Some families have one dog. Others have three. Some have curious cats, while others have older pets who prefer to watch from across the room.
No matter what your family looks like, every member is welcome.
Years from now, these photographs won’t just remind you of how tiny your baby once was. They’ll remind you who was there to welcome them home—from the very beginning.
Newborn Photos With Pets in Atlanta
If you’re planning newborn photos with pets, I’d love to help you tell the complete story of your growing family.
We’ll create in-home photos that include everyone who makes your house feel like home—whether they have two legs or four.
If you’d like to learn more about my in-home newborn sessions, you can visit my newborn photography page for details and availability.
Continue Reading
- Why In-home Newborn Photography Feels More Authentic
Preserving parenthood with intention, artistry, and honesty. - Studio-Inspired Newborn Photography at Home
Discover how you can enjoy timeless newborn portraits and candid family moments without leaving home. - What to Wear for In-Home Newborn Photos
Outfit ideas and styling tips to help your family look natural and coordinated.
