How to Include Your Dog with New Baby in Your Newborn Photoshoot | Tips from Portland, Oregon’s Dog Loving Newborn Photographer
Including your pup in your in-home newborn lifestyle photoshoot can be a special way to capture your tiny newborn baby with his or her furry sibling! Here are a few tips to help make the experience stress-free and relaxing for everyone involved.
Choose a photographer who is comfortable around pets
When you are searching for the best newborn photographer for your family, ask each potential photographer if they are comfortable around pets or look at their portfolio to see if they include pets in their newborn sessions. A newborn photographer who is comfortable around dogs will be the best at capturing the love and connection of a dog-loving family!
What should you do when your newborn photographer arrives?
When your newborn photographer arrives at your home, ask them to greet your dog. Let your dog get acquainted with your photographer with sniffs and pets so they can move past the initial “new guest” excitement and begin to calm down for the photoshoot. I always spend a few minutes giving the dog attention first thing because it helps the pup feel comfortable with me in their home during the photoshoot.
Remember that the focus of your newborn session is to capture newborn baby moments. Adding adorable moments including the family dog is like icing on the cake! It’s important to not have high expectations of your dog’s participation in the photoshoot in order to keep things low-key and relaxed. Allow them to come in and out of the shoot as needed, and don't get too caught up in trying to get the perfect shot.
Where is the best location for newborn photos with a dog?
One of the best locations for a full family photo with both humans and pets is in the bedroom on the bed. If your dogs are allowed on the bed, it can be a comfortable and cozy spot for everyone to cuddle up and capture some candid, natural moments.
If your pets aren't allowed on the bed, I like to position mom and dad sitting on the side of the bed next to your dog. This way you can have full control over the safety of your newborn baby while giving your dog the opportunity to interact with your baby. Another place I like to take photos with your dog is in the nursery. It’s cute to have everyone sitting and snuggling on the floor in front of the crib at your dog's level.
Use Dog Treats when needed
Some dogs need incentives to join in on family photoshoots. Have some dog treats on hand to help keep your furry friends happy and relaxed during the photoshoot. This can be especially helpful if your pets are a bit nervous or anxious around the camera.
Safety first: You know your dog best
You are the judge of deciding if it’s safe to set baby along on the bed with your dog. You know your dog’s temperament and energy level. If your dog is too active and energetic, only include your dog in photos where you are holding the baby safely in your arms.
Relax, and let your dog be a dog
Newborn lifestyle sessions take place at home to make the experience more relaxed for everyone. Don't put too much pressure on yourself or your pup to get the perfect shot, and remember that the most important thing is to capture the love and connection between your entire family. With a little patience and some dog treats, you can create beautiful, timeless memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime
Thank you so much for following along! I hope these tips help ease your mind as your prep for a newborn lifestyle shoot at home! For more info on booking a Portland, Oregon newborn session, click here! I’d love to work with you and your family (and photograph sweet moments with your dog)!
Just here for more newborn photo inspiration with cute dogs?
Check out these adorable doggy moments from recent newborn sessions in and around Portland, Oregon:
