For many people (including myself), dogs are furry members of the family! It comes as no surprise that they want to include their dog (or cat, or...) in their family photos. Including your pet in your Santa Barbara family photo session does require a little extra preparation, but it is certainly doable and worth it!

Happy black Labrador dog smiling at camera with tongue out while wearing collar and tags.
Family walking on scenic trail with black dog and expecting baby in golden autumn field.
Playful moment on nature trail with black dog and family against rural backdrop.
Family enjoying outdoor picnic with black dog in autumn field.
Family sitting in golden meadow with black dog on sunny day.
Child running through golden field with black dog in background.

Tips for Preparing Your Dog for a Photo Session


Dogs can get excited when meeting new people, so it helps to arrive a few minutes early. This gives your pup time to settle in, sniff around, and take care of business before the session begins. As you probably know, dogs pick up on energy, so if you arrive relaxed, your pup will too.


Bring along some of your dog’s favorite treats to keep their attention when needed. I recommend packing two small baggies: one for you and one for me. This way, I can have a few treats handy in my pocket to help guide your pup’s focus without you needing to juggle everything.


Keep a leash with you, even if your dog is well trained. It is always better to be prepared. Before the session, remove any bulky poop bag holders from the leash, and if you want everything to look extra polished, consider using a simple leash that complements your outfit.


During the session, I will guide your poses so you can hold onto your pup securely without it feeling like you are hanging on for dear life. Just like with kids, let me take the lead in directing your dog’s attention. I will arrange you and your family first, then use cues or treats to get your pup looking in the right direction. The less you worry about what your dog is doing, the more natural and enjoyable the photos will be.

A family stands with their dog in front of rustic gray wooden doors covered in climbing vines on a stone wall.
Group walking joyfully through ocean waves at sunset along sandy beach holding hands together.
Group holds hands walking along beach at sunset while two dogs play in the surf along California coastline.
Dog owners pose with their Bernese Mountain Dogs and other large breeds against an ivy-covered wall outdoors.
A family and their dogs relax together in a sunny field during golden hour.
Family walking with dog on beach at sunset casting long shadows on wet sand during golden hour.

Quick Checklist for Your Pup’s Photo Session


  • Arrive a few minutes early to let your dog settle in and do their business


  • Bring two small baggies of treats (one for you, one for me)


  • Keep a leash handy and remove any bulky poop bag holders


  • Consider a leash that matches your outfit for a polished look


  • Stay relaxed, your dog will mirror your energy


  • Let me guide your pup’s attention so you can focus on enjoying the moment
Group of people enjoying a casual outdoor gathering with dogs along a rustic barn wall setting.
White husky dog smiling and running in a garden courtyard while being photographed during golden hour.
Black and white dogs playing and lounging together on a rocky beach with pebbles and stones.
A black mixed-breed dog with white markings stands alertly on sandy ground with rocks in the background.
A happy Siberian Husky with bright blue eyes sits on rocky terrain with a playful expression.
Two dogs relaxing on smooth round beach stones while enjoying a sunny day outdoors.
Happy couple and their dog enjoying a romantic sunset photoshoot at a scenic beach setting.
A group walks together along a beach at sunset with their dogs, enjoying the coastal scenery.
Friends stroll along the wet sand of a beach at golden hour with their dogs beside them.
People walk their dogs along a scenic beach with coastal homes visible in the background.
Reflection in water shows silhouettes of people walking on a beach at dusk.
People enjoying a sunset walk with their dog along a sandy beach while taking photos on a peaceful evening.
Loving couple with their black dog taking engagement photos on a sandy beach at golden hour.
Romantic beach photos of couples walking and embracing along the shoreline at sunset.
A couple dances playfully on the beach at sunset while others gather in the background.