Engagement sessions are a perfect way to celebrate your love story, and for many couples, that story wouldn’t feel complete without including their pets or kids. Whether it’s a rambunctious pup, a curious bunny, or a little one who’s just as excited as you are, bringing your whole family into your photos can make the session even more special.

But let’s be real: Including pets or kids also comes with its own set of challenges. As a photographer, I’ve worked with dogs, bunnies, and children during engagement sessions, and I’ve learned a few tricks to keep things fun, meaningful, and stress-free.

Should you include pets or kids?

Before we dive into tips, it’s worth asking: Should you include your pets or kids in your engagement session?

If your pets are a big part of your relationship or if you have kids who you want to bring into the fold, the answer might be a resounding yes! For example, engagement photos are a wonderful opportunity to make step-kids feel included as your family grows. On the other hand, if you’re envisioning a session that focuses exclusively on your relationship, that’s perfectly okay too.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, and there’s no right or wrong answer — just what feels authentic to you.

Tips for including pets

If you’re planning to include your furry (or feathered!) friends, here’s how to set yourself up for success:

01. Let them get their energy out

Dogs, in particular, tend to have lots of energy at the start of a session. Arrive early to the location and give them time to play or go for a walk. A little pre-shoot exercise can make all the difference in helping them settle down for photos.

02. Bring a wrangler

Trust me, having someone else to manage your pets is a game-changer. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or pet sitter, having an extra set of hands means you can focus on being in the moment while someone else handles treats, leashes, or any unexpected surprises.

03. Plan for a quick appearance

In my experience, starting the session with your pets and then letting them head home works best. After 15–30 minutes, most pets have reached their limit, and the rest of the session can focus on just the two of you.

04. Bring snacks and familiar items

Treats, favorite toys, or a familiar blanket can help keep your pets calm and engaged. Plus, these items can double as fun props for the photos!

05. Be flexible

Pets are unpredictable, and sometimes the Instagram-worthy pose you had in mind might not work out. That’s okay! The best photos often come from going with the flow and embracing their natural personalities.

Tips for including kids

Including kids in your engagement session can be just as fun and rewarding. Here’s how to make it a great experience for everyone:

01. Keep it short and sweet

Kids’ attention spans are shorter than adults’, so plan for a quick appearance. Incorporating them into the first part of the session and letting them take a break or head home early is often the best approach.

02. Bring snacks and comfort items

Especially for the little ones, having snacks or a favorite toy on hand can work wonders for keeping kids happy and engaged.

03. Encourage familiarity

Whether it’s a favorite park, a beloved outfit, or a playful activity, incorporating familiar elements can help kids feel more comfortable in front of the camera.

04. Respect their comfort levels

Kids can sometimes feel shy or overwhelmed during a photo session. If your child seems uncomfortable or reluctant to participate, let me know — I’m always happy to adjust and find a way to make them feel at ease.

Creative ways to include pets or kids

Want to add a personal touch to your session? Here are some creative ideas:

Props: Incorporate meaningful props like a sign that says “My humans are getting married!” for your dog, or matching floral crowns for you and your child.
Activities: Capture candid moments by playing fetch with your dog or having your child blow bubbles.
Outfits: Coordinate outfits that complement the overall vibe of the session — whether it’s a cute bandana for your dog or a fun second outfit for your child.
Locations: Choose a spot that’s meaningful to your family, like a park where you often walk your dog or a playground your child loves.

Prioritizing safety and comfort

Your comfort — and the comfort of your pets and kids — is always my top priority. If there’s ever a pose or activity that doesn’t feel right, let me know! You know your pets and kids better than I do, and I rely on your instincts to guide what feels safe and enjoyable for them.

With kids, I also make a point of asking them directly if they’re old enough to share how they’re feeling. It’s all about creating an environment where everyone feels relaxed and valued.

Final thoughts

Including your pets or kids in your engagement session can add a personal, heartfelt touch to your photos. With a little preparation and flexibility, we can create beautiful memories that celebrate your whole family.

If you’re ready to plan your engagement session — whether it’s just the two of you, or the whole crew — I’d love to chat about your vision. Let’s create something uniquely yours!

Ready to capture your love story?

I’d love to learn more about your wedding plans and discuss how we can create timeless memories together. Let’s make your big day unforgettable.

Contact me

Including pets or kids in your engagement photos