Every now & then, I will get asked by a client if it's okay to bring their pet (usually their dog).  As a self-proclaimed animal lover, I always say ABSOLUTELY!!  I love animals.  I love the fun they bring, their energy...and I especially love watching their families love on them.  In fact, last week, our family had to say good-bye to our precious Australian Shepherd, Zoey.  She was 16 years old and was a huge part of our family.  My heart is even more sensitive right now towards animals, but I encourage you to include them in your pictures if you want!  Here are 3 main reasons why I think it's a great idea!  

1. THEY ARE A PART OF YOUR FAMILY!

Whether your pet lives for one year or 15 years, they are a member of your family.  For their time with you, there are so many precious memories that are made.  Pictures are supposed to reflect a particular time in your life, right?  Well, since your pet plays such a huge role in your life, it's only fitting that you include them in your family photos. :)

2. THEY HELP YOU TO FEEL COMFORTABLE!

As much as I wish that everyone just loved having their pictures taken, that is just sadly not the case!!  I'll be honest, I would much rather be behind the camera than in front of it! :)  Having said that, bringing your pet allows you to feel more comfortable.  Pets are proven to be therapeutic in so many ways.  Bringing them along to your session helps you to take your mind off of having a camera in your face and allows you to focus more on your sweet fur baby!  Plus, there's just nothing sweeter than capturing sweet lovin' between pets and their family!  

3. THEY GIVE YOU SOMETHING TO DO!!

My sessions are always centered around doing something...whether it's exploring, walking, playing, etc.  I love movement and action so much more than just standing or sitting still.  When you have your pet with you at your session, you automatically have something you can do!  You can play with them, love on them, or walk with them...and so much more.  They're like a really adorable props that moves and makes noise! Haha :)

If you know my philosophy or have followed my work for very long, you know that I embrace imperfection and love moments that are just real, honest and tell a story!  When pets are involved in a session, I just love how perfection goes out the window, and we can just embrace the pet's personality.  We can capture the fun, love & connection that the pet and his/her family shares, and we can have a few good laughs along the way! :)

So...if you're planning on having me take your pictures, and you've wondered if it's okay if you bring your pet, the answer is YES!! :)  If it's been forever since you've had family pictures done, and you know time is passing too quickly, then I'd love for you to schedule a session! :)  You can learn about the London's Bridge Photography experience HERE, the investment HERE, and contact me HERE.  I'd love to capture your precious memories...with or without your fur baby! :)