Pets at family photoshoots | London family photographer

Capturing the perfect family moments and milestones is a timeless treasure, but add beloved pets into the mix, and you've got a recipe for adorable chaos and heart-melting memories! 

As a London-based lifestyle family photographer who adores furry friends, I've had the joy of photographing newborns, expecting mothers, and lively families alongside their lovable dogs and cats. I have a little cat called Mimi and I truly believe that pets should be included in the photos!

Remember, a little bit of planning, a dash of patience, and a whole lot of love for your pets will result in photographs that tell the beautiful story of your family, whiskers and all!

There's something undeniably magical about capturing cherished moments in the cosy comfort of your own home, surrounded by the warmth of your family and, of course, your furry friends. At-home photoshoots offer a unique canvas to paint your family's story, complete with the playful antics and snuggly embraces of your beloved pets.

Maternity Photoshoot with Pets in London

Picture this: a serene moment with an expectant mother gently cradling her baby bump during a maternity photoshoot, surrounded by her furry companions offering their unconditional love (and perhaps a few unexpected photobombs!). Dogs sneaking kisses, cats curiously exploring, and the occasional bark or meow adding to the symphony of adorable chaos—this is the magic of a pet-inclusive photoshoot.

Newborn Photoshoot with Pets in London

Welcoming a new member to the family is a monumental moment, and incorporating your pets into newborn photoshoots creates heartwarming memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's a cuddly cat snuggled next to the crib or a loyal dog watching over the little one, these photos encapsulate the essence of a growing family—furry and otherwise.

From capturing the morning rituals with your furry companions to freezing the spontaneous bursts of joy as they playfully interact with family members, at-home sessions create a tapestry of memories, woven with the threads of everyday life.

At-home sessions blend the comfort of familiar surroundings with the endearing chaos and love that pets bring to the equation. These sessions aren't just about capturing moments; they're about freezing time and preserving the essence of your family's unique bond, set against the backdrop of your home and the playful antics of your furry companions.

Tips for At-Home Pet-Inclusive Sessions

Patience and Play: At-home sessions allow for a more relaxed atmosphere. Embrace the playful chaos that pets often bring, allowing for candid moments that truly reflect your family's dynamic.

Patience is a Virtue: Pets have their own agendas, and that's part of their charm! Embrace their personalities and let them express themselves. Sometimes the candid shots turn out to be the most precious. Sometimes (particularly) cats will only cooperate for roughly 5 seconds. In most cases that’s all I need to take that shot! 

Treats and Toys: A pocket full of treats or their favourite toy can work wonders in capturing their attention. Not to mention, it's a delightful way to coax out those heartwarming expressions!

Outdoor Photoshoot with Pets in London

Bringing your pets into an outdoor photoshoot can add a whole new level of warmth and character to your portraits. Golden hour (sunset) sessions are absolutely beautiful and your pets and children have the time of their life running and playing around! After letting all that energy out, they’re likely to sleep soundly throughout the night - you’re welcome!

Tips for Outdoor Pet-Inclusive Sessions

Location Scouting: When choosing a location in London for your photoshoot, we need to consider your pets. We’ll opt for pet-friendly spots where they can roam safely and comfortably, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for everyone involved.

Accessorise, but Mindfully: Collars, bandanas, or cute bows can add flair, but ensure they're comfortable for your furry pals. Avoid anything that might stress or irritate them during the shoot.

Engage a Helper: Ask a friend or family member to assist with the pets during the shoot. Having an extra set of hands can ease the process, allowing you to focus on creating magical moments.

Meet Mimi

This is Mimi, our cat, that joined our family shortly after my second child was born. You’d think that having two under two and a kitten was a challenge, but it actually wasn’t! We are lucky to have the most chilled cat in the world, who’s very gentle with children (even when those children are still learning about boundaries). It’s heartwarming to witness the bond they’re building and how much my three children learn from having a pet.

As a London-based family photographer passionate about encapsulating these priceless moments, I'm excited to join you in creating a beautiful photographic record that celebrates the love, laughter, and paws of your family's story within the walls of your home sweet home. Remember, amidst the playful chaos and cosy embraces, these photographs will serve as cherished memories, etched with the indelible mark of your family's love - pets included!

Ready to book a session? Fill out this short contact form and I’ll get in touch! Can’t wait to meet you and your purrfect family’s story!