Pets aren’t just animals, they’re family! Including your furry friend in your Charleston family photoshoot is such a fun way to celebrate the bond you share with them. Whether it’s your playful pup, snuggly cat, or even a more unconventional pet, there are plenty of ways to make sure they’re part of your session. Here’s how to plan the perfect pet-inclusive photoshoot without the stress!

1. Choose a Pet-Friendly Location

Charleston is full of incredible spots for photos, but not all of them are pet-friendly. Parks like Hampton Park or Waterfront Park are great options, with plenty of open space for your pet to feel comfortable. For beach lovers, Folly Beach allows dogs (on a leash) during certain hours—so check the rules before heading out. Your pet will feel most at ease in a location they can explore, and you’ll get candid, natural shots of everyone having fun together!

2. Bring Along a Helping Hand

Let’s be real, pets don’t always cooperate when you need them to! Having a friend or family member on hand to help is a game changer. They can hold your pet during the moments you want photos of just the humans and assist with keeping your pet entertained between shots. It’s also helpful if you need a quick break to fix outfits or reposition.

3. Keep Treats and Toys Handy

Want your pet to look right at the camera? Bring their favorite treat or squeaky toy! Not only will this keep their attention, but it can also bring out those adorable head tilts or excited expressions. Treats can also be a great reward for good behavior during the session.

4. Be Flexible and Embrace the Chaos

Pets have a way of bringing unpredictability to any situation, and that’s okay! Some of the best photos come from those unplanned, candid moments—your dog bounding through the grass or your cat curling up in someone’s lap. Go with the flow and let your pet’s personality shine!

ncluding your pet in your Charleston family photoshoot is the perfect way to create memories that reflect your whole family’s unique bond. With a little planning, some treats, and lots of patience, your session will be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of wagging tails.

Ready to book a pet-friendly family session? Let’s make it happen! Reach out by clicking here, and let’s capture your entire family—fur babies included!

KIND WORDS

“Janice is an amazing family photographer. This year, our family went from one grandchild to five! Janice understood our time constraints for photographing four children under 1 yrs of age. She worked around the children’s schedule and was able to get all the children looking at the camera at the same time!! Our family now has the most memorable pictures of our family beach vacation…10 adults, 5 children and 2 dogs!! We look forward to documenting our family every year with Janice!!” -Carol