A spotted brown and white dog sits on a bridge while a couple in formal attire stands behind wearing a blue dress and suit.
A black and white spotted pointer dog sits between two people sharing an intimate moment in formal attire.
A couple kneels on a yellow-lined bridge with their spotted dog wearing a bowtie under warm golden lighting.

Fur real… bring the pups!


Because let’s face it: your dog’s basically your first child, best friend, and honorary wedding party member. So when it comes to your engagement photos, why wouldn’t they be part of the fun? Including your dog adds a playful, heartfelt touch — and let’s be honest, they steal the show (and the treats). As your engagement photographer, I’m here to help you plan a pup-friendly session full of tail wags, love, and genuine moments you’ll want to frame forever.

A person wearing jeans and a sweater squats with their large spotty dog against a colorful purple and orange wall.
Couple poses with their Australian shepherd dog on yellow-lined bridge during golden hour photography session.
Two people sitting against colorful purple and orange wall with their spotted Dalmatian dog.

Pup-ared and Ready: Pick a Dog-Friendly Location

When planning your engagement photos with your pup, the right location makes all the difference. You’ll want a spot that’s not only beautiful but also safe, accessible, and welcoming for dogs.


Top things to consider:

  • Leash laws: Is the area on- or off-leash? Knowing ahead of time helps set expectations and keep your pup safe.
  • Distractions: Choose a location that isn’t too busy or noisy. Overcrowded parks or popular hiking trails can overwhelm your dog and make it tough to get those sweet, relaxed shots.
  • Dog-friendly amenities: Look for places with water access, shade, open space to roam, or even dog-friendly businesses (think breweries, cafes, or charming downtown streets!).
  • Natural beauty: Fields, forests, beaches, and quiet gardens provide great backdrops and room for your dog to move naturally — which leads to better photos.



Quick Tip: Always check ahead with your photographer if you’re unsure about a location. As your engagement photographer, I’m happy to recommend local dog-friendly spots where your pup can shine — without the chaos.


Remember: a happy dog = amazing photos!

Couple playing with their golden retriever on an urban rooftop deck with city buildings in background.
A couple kneels with their fluffy gray and white dog on a rooftop terrace overlooking a cityscape at sunset.
A couple wearing coordinating blue outfits sits outdoors with their black and white border collie dog on stone steps.

Dressed to the K9s

Let’s be honest — a pup in a bowtie is basically a supermodel. But before you go full fashion week, remember: your dog’s comfort is key for a stress-free session. The right accessories can totally elevate your engagement photos and match your overall aesthetic, but they should never distract or make your dog uncomfortable.


Fun, photogenic accessory ideas:

  • A bandana with your wedding date or a sweet saying like “I do too!”
  • A floral crown or greenery collar for a soft, romantic vibe (perfect for smaller dogs or chill big ones)
  • A bowtie or necktie in your wedding colors
  • A custom leash or harness with names or initials


Important Tips:

  • Try everything on ahead of time! Do a short practice run at home a few days before your shoot. Let your pup wear the outfit or accessory for 10–15 minutes to get used to it — and to make sure nothing is itchy, tight, or distracting.
  • Skip anything bulky or noisy. Avoid costumes or props that might block their movement, make sounds, or distract them during the session.
  • Keep it simple. Sometimes, less is more. A single, well-fitting accessory can be just as eye-catching as a full get-up.


Bonus Tip: If you’re not sure what will work best, bring a couple of accessory options to your shoot. Your engagement photographer (hi, that’s me!) can help choose what photographs best based on lighting, location, and your outfits.


Looking cute is great, but when your dog feels great too? A happy pup steals the spotlight every single time.

A cute Pembroke Welsh Corgi wearing a gray bow tie sits attentively on a forest path surrounded by autumn leaves.
A couple stands outdoors in warm sunlight with their three dogs on a frosty morning in the woods.

Keep Calm & Bring Treats

Want the secret to picture-perfect dogs in engagement photos? It’s all about preparation, positivity… and plenty of treats. A calm, happy pup is much more likely to cooperate (and flash those puppy dog eyes on cue). Before your session, make sure your dog has had a good walk, a bathroom break, and some water. This helps burn off excess energy and sets them up for success.


Pack Like a Pro: What to Bring for Your Pup

Here's your go-to doggie day-of checklist:

  • Favorite high-value treats (think chicken, cheese, or peanut butter!)
  • A squeaky toy or ball to get their attention
  • Portable water bowl + water bottle
  • Waste bags (because… you know)
  • Brush or grooming wipes for any last-minute fluff-ups
  • Their leash (and maybe a cute backup one for photos!)
  • Optional outfit or accessories
  • A towel if you’re shooting near water or it’s muddy


Pro Tip: Bring a buddy! Having a trusted friend or family member come along is a total game-changer. They can help handle the dog, get their attention during shots, and take them home or on a walk when it’s time for some human-only photos.


Bonus Tip: If your dog is nervous around new people or places, try a mini outing to your photo location ahead of time to get them familiar with the environment.


Remember: as your engagement photographer I will work with your pup’s pace and personality — but you know your dog best. A little planning goes a long way toward getting those sweet, natural moments that truly capture your love (and their adorable face).

A playful outdoor photo with people kissing a black dog from both sides in a golden autumn field at sunset.
Two people enjoy a bike ride together on a grass path surrounded by tall autumn grasses on a sunny day.

Unleashed Joy

Not every photo needs to be posed — in fact, some of the best shots happen when no one’s looking at the camera. Let your pup be themselves! Whether they’re sniffing around, laying in your lap, rolling in the grass, or sneakily trying to lick your face, those authentic, unscripted moments are often the ones that truly tell your story.

Instead of worrying about getting your dog to “perform,” let them interact with you naturally. Snuggle, play, take a walk — your engagement photographer will capture the love, laughter, and light-hearted chaos in between.


Why it works:

  • Candid moments feel genuine and emotionally rich
  • Your dog’s unique personality shines through
  • These shots create emotional connection — and often become your favorites


Bonus Tip: Build in extra time to your session so your pup can warm up and settle into the environment. You’ll be surprised how much magic happens once everyone is relaxed and just having fun.

Including your dog in your engagement photos isn’t just adorable — it adds a layer of meaning and heart. They're part of your family, your everyday life, and your love story. So let that shine through.


Thought-starter: What are your favorite things to do as a couple with your dog? Do you hike together? Cuddle on the couch? Share ice cream cones on the weekends? Bring a piece of that real-life joy into your shoot — and let your love (and theirs!) take center stage.

A person holds up a flowing beige lace dress in an outdoor field while a black dog watches nearby.
Two people sit with a dog on a dock overlooking a serene lake at sunset with hills visible in the distance.
A couple walks through a grassy path surrounded by tall dried cattails and brush on a sunny autumn day.
Two people sit together with their dog on a dock overlooking a serene lake during sunset.

You, Me, and the Dogs

You, Me, and the Dogs

Let's Make Fetch Happen... (But Like...With Photos)


Your pup is part of the story — let’s celebrate that with a session full of laughter, kisses, and tail wags. As your engagement photographer, I’ll help you plan a dog-friendly shoot that feels so you.


Ready to book your session? Let’s get your whole pack camera-ready!

Couple walking with their small dog along a peaceful nature trail surrounded by lush summer greenery.
A couple sits in a grassy meadow during golden hour with their English bulldog on a blanket.
A couple sits in a sunlit meadow with their Boston Terrier dog during a warm summer evening.
A couple walks their dog along an autumn trail through a golden field beneath a vibrant blue and cloudy sky.