If your furry sidekick is part of every memory that matters, I’ve got you. This post is for you, friend.

As a Houston family photographer who’s photographed dogs of all shapes, sizes, and personalities, I’ve learned a thing or two about making sessions work with the furry family members in tow.

Here’s the good news: You absolutely CAN include your pets in your family photos and walk away with gorgeous, connected photos that truly reflect your family.

Here are 7 real-life tips for bringing your dog to your next session in Houston, The Woodlands, or nearby without losing your mind.

1. Choose a Pet-Friendly Location. Not every location in the Houston area works well for pets, especially if they’re easily overstimulated. Let’s chat about spots like wide open fields in The Woodlands, private trails in Conroe, or even your own backyard if your pup needs a low-key setting.

2. Bring a Plan for When They Are Not in the Photos Want a mix of shots with and without your dog? Either bring someone along who can hang with your pup off camera or have a plan to safely secure them in the car or tie them up in a shaded spot nearby. This gives us flexibility without stressing you (or your dog) out.

3. Get the Zoomies Out Early. High-energy dogs need a little time to settle before the session. Give your pet some playtime before your session to help them chill out a bit. A worn-out pup is a camera-ready pup.

4. Pack the Essentials: Leash, water, waste bags, treats, a favorite toy, maybe a lint roller (because fur happens), bring it all. I promise it’s better to have too much than to realize you forgot the one thing that keeps your pup focused. And if your dog is a runner and needs to stay leashed for most of the session, opt for a more neutral colored leash and collar instead of bright neons so they blend in better in photos.

5. Keep Expectations Low and Spirits High Y’all. Pets are like toddlers with tails. They’re wiggly. They’re curious. They do whatever they want. But that’s the magic. One great photo? Win. A session full of goofy dog smiles and lick attacks? Even better.

6. Let Me Guide You Through It All This isn’t my first rodeo with kids chaos or canines. I’ll guide you through prompts and poses that help everyone, furry ones included, feel relaxed, connected, and camera-ready.

7. Just Go With the Flow Some of the best photos happen when things don’t go to plan. A leash tug. A rogue tail wag. A perfectly imperfect lick on the cheek. That’s real life, and it’s so stinkin’ worth capturing.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning a family photo session in The Woodlands, Houston, or anywhere nearby and wondering, “Can we bring the dog?” the answer is a resounding YES. Your pup is part of the family, and including them makes your gallery that much more personal and meaningful. Whether they’re full of energy or just along for the snuggles, I’ll help guide the process so your dog feels included and your session stays stress-free.

Let’s create a gallery that reflects your family’s real story filled with love laughter a little fur and all.

Your memories matter. Let’s hold onto them every family member included.