Family photos are more than just snapshots—they’re a way to capture the people and pets who mean the most to you. As a family photographer and pet photographer in St. Louis, I’ve learned that nothing adds joy, energy, and authenticity to a family portrait session quite like your dog.

Would the Martins leave Lassie out of their family photos? Could you imagine Snoopy missing from the Peanuts gang? For many pet parents, our dogs are true family members—just as important to capture as children, siblings, and parents.

In this article, I’ll share why including your dog in your family and pet photography session creates amazing photos, how to prepare, and what to expect during the shoot.

Take a look at our favorite gallery: family pet photography.

Why include your dog in family photos?

Dogs bring a special energy to family portraits that can’t be replicated. Whether it’s a quick kiss, a goofy grin, or the way they curl up at your feet, these unscripted moments tell a richer, more complete family story.

For dog moms, dads, and anyone with beloved pets, the idea of leaving your furry friend out of a portrait feels incomplete. Years from now, your kids may look back at the photos and ask, “What was Ellie doing that made everyone laugh?”

At that point you’ll know you made a great decision.

Including your dog ensures that when you reflect on these images, every important member of your family is right there.

Why St. Louis is perfect for family and pet photography

St. Louis is filled with beautiful, dog-friendly spaces that make the perfect backdrop for your family and pet photos.

From the open meadows and lakes of Forest Park to the colorful gardens at Tower Grove Park, the city offers endless settings for portraits that feel authentic and alive. In St. Louis county, the choices are equally good, with Queeny Park and one of our favorites, Bluebird Park.

Seasonal variety means your images can reflect spring blooms, lush summer greens, vibrant fall leaves, or even the quiet charm of a winter day.

As a local pet photographer, I know the best spots where dogs can explore, kids can have fun, and families can enjoy a relaxed photo shoot that turns into a cherished memory.

Tips for a smooth family and pet photoshoot

Including a dog in your photo session is a little like adding an extra toddler—wonderful, full of personality, and occasionally unpredictable. Here’s how we make it work:

• Know Your Dog’s Personality. Is your dog outgoing or shy? Does it have boundless energy or prefer a quiet snuggle? Knowing this helps set expectations for the photography experience.
• Bring Treats and Toys. Food, squeaky toys, and a favorite ball help keep your pup engaged and rewarded throughout the portrait session.
• Comfort Comes First. Whether your outdoor session is in a St. Louis park or your own backyard, bring water, a blanket, or something familiar to help your dog relax.
• Focus on Connection, Not Perfection. The best pet portraits aren’t perfectly posed. They’re the moments where your dog jumps into the kids’ arms or rests its head on your lap.

Preparing Your Dog for the Session

A little preparation goes a long way. Give your pup a walk before the photography session so it is calmer and groom it in advance so it looks its best.

Let me know if your best friend is nervous around cameras or new environments so I can adapt my approach. We can plan your photo shoot at a favorite dog-friendly St. Louis location or even at home for in-home comfort.

Managing the chaos (and the fun)

Kids and pets together in one family session? Yes, it’s chaotic—but it’s also magic.

Dogs have a way of loosening everyone up, sparking real laughter, and turning good photos into amazing photos. Your child hugging their best friend, a quick lick on the cheek, or a surprise zoomie mid photo shoot. These are the moments that become treasured pet portraits.

If your dog needs a break, we’ll pause and let it recharge before bringing it back into the spotlight. My approach as a professional pet photographer is to embrace the unpredictability. Some of the best photos happen when your dog is running in the grass, jumping in for a lick, or sitting proudly next to its best friend—your child.

Check out some of our best work with dogs: golden retrievers and Weimaraners. Also, see if you love our photos of wild horses as much as we do. If you are really energetic, give a look at our many different birds in flight and wild animals.

Creating Timeless Memories

A family and pet photography session is about more than just taking good photos. It’s about preserving the relationships that define your family right now. Years from now, these images will remind you of the love, joy, and companionship your dog brought to your life. When the session is over, you’ll have more than just digital files—you’ll have heirloom-quality wall art and albums that showcase the bond between your family and your fur baby.

If you’re in St. Louis and ready to create professional photos that capture your whole family—paws included—let’s talk. I’ll help you plan an on-location or at-home photo shoot designed to bring out the personality of every member of your family, both two- and four-legged.

Todd Gurley is a photographer who has come to the professional party late, but has had a big boy camera since he was 14.

Todd’s love of photography always had an outdoor focus. It started with sports, evolved to landscape, and then wildlife and birds.

And now pets!.

Based in St. Louis, Missouri, but an Arkansan at heart, Todd lives with his partner in crime of 50 years Sheila and about 250 pounds of dogs. They have two golden retrievers named Gracie and Ellie and one black lab named Norman. And bringing up the rear is an additional 10 pounds from Sally the rescue cat. She’s in charge if you’re wondering.

Todd has this other business with his son Drew called Redbird Advisors. Oh, and he now has this website which was first discussed 25 years ago.

No wine before its time!

P.S. The photo above was taken on our way to the summit of Mt. Quandary, a 14,271-foot peak in the middle range of the Rockies, south of Breckenridge. Colorado. There are 58 named “14ers” in Colorado, the most of any state.