Bringing Your Dog to Your Newborn Photo Shoot: What You Need to Know
For many families, a dog is more than just a pet—they’re a beloved member of the family. If you’re welcoming a new baby and would love to include your furry friend in your newborn photo shoot, you absolutely can! With a little preparation, we can create beautiful, timeless images that capture the special bond between your baby and their four-legged sibling.
Why Include Your Dog in Your Newborn Photos?
Your dog has likely been by your side throughout your pregnancy, and they will play an important role in your baby’s life as they grow. Including them in your newborn session helps celebrate that connection from the very beginning.
Some of the benefits of bringing your dog to your baby’s photo shoot include:
- Creating special memories of your first family moments together.
- Marking your dog’s role as a protector and companion in your baby’s life.
- Personalised, heartwarming images that showcase your full family dynamic.
How to Prepare for a Smooth Session
1. Consider Your Dog’s Personality
Not all dogs will feel comfortable in a studio setting, so it’s important to think about how your pet will react. If your dog is calm, obedient, and comfortable around new experiences, they will likely settle in quickly. However, if they are very energetic or nervous, a newborn session may not be the right fit.
2. Plan the Perfect Timing
Newborn sessions take place when babies are between 5 and 10 days old, and they are designed to be calm and quiet environments. If you’re bringing your dog, we’ll make sure to schedule their part of the session first so that they can head home afterward with a family member.
3. Bring Essentials for Your Dog
To help your dog feel at ease, bring along:
- Their lead and collar, in case they need gentle guidance.
- Their favourite treats, to encourage good behaviour.
- A comfort item such as a blanket, if they need reassurance.
4. Choose the Right Setup
There are different ways we can incorporate your dog into the session:
- Lying next to the baby on a soft blanket for a peaceful, cosy shot.
- Sitting near you while you hold your baby for a classic family portrait.
- Gazing into the crib or nest for a protective and loving pose.
Your dog’s comfort and safety are the priority, so we’ll work at their pace and ensure a stress-free experience.
What If My Dog Can’t Attend?
If bringing your dog to the studio isn’t possible, we can still incorporate them in other ways! Some families choose to include a favourite toy, collar, or a framed photo of their dog as a special touch in the session.
Book Your Newborn Session with Your Dog
If you’d love to include your dog in your newborn session, just let me know when you book, and we’ll make a plan that works for everyone. Sessions take place in my Crawley Down studio and are relaxed, baby-led, and tailored to create images that you’ll treasure forever.
Get in touch today to book your newborn shoot and celebrate the newest (and furriest!) member of your growing family.
Newborn Photography in East Grinstead
Newborn photo shoots are best when your baby is between 5 and 10 days old—this is when they’re at their sleepiest and curliest, perfect for capturing those beautifully serene images. To ensure you don’t miss out, I recommend booking while you’re still pregnant—we’ll set a provisional date for a week after your due date and adjust if needed once your baby arrives.
Your session takes place in my warm and cosy studio in Crawley Down, designed for your baby’s comfort. The shoot is relaxed, unrushed, and includes three digital images of your choice, all for £95. There’s no sales session—just a private online gallery where you can view and select your favourites at your own pace.
