Your dog was your first baby, and now you’ve added a tiny human to the mix. If you’re dreaming of that perfect photo of your newborn curled up next to their furry big brother or sister, you’re not alone. Many of the families I work with say, “We can’t imagine photos without our dog in them,” and I couldn’t agree more.
As a newborn photographer in the Cumming and Alpharetta area, I’m asked all the time how to include dogs safely in newborn photos. I love including all the “babies” in a session, whether they’re brand new or covered in fur. Dogs are often the first child in the family, and documenting the way they fit into this new chapter is such a special part of telling your story.
Of course, the first question parents usually ask is: Is it safe? And the answer is yes! With the right approach, planning, and gentle guidance, you can absolutely have beautiful, safe, heart-melting photos that include your pup. Here’s how I make it happen:
Safety First: Essential Precautions for Newborn-Dog Photo Sessions
In-home newborn sessions across North Atlanta are ideal for keeping dogs relaxed in their familiar environment, and safety is always my top priority. A newborn session with pets looks a little different from a typical session, and that’s a good thing.
- Never forced: I’ll never push a dog into a position that makes them uncomfortable. If your dog is unsure, I may suggest photos where your baby is in a basket or wrapped on the couch next to you while the dog lays nearby.
- Supervised always: Your pup will always be handled by a family member during photos, so no baby is left unattended with a pet.
- Reading the cues: I pay close attention to body language—if your dog looks stressed or overstimulated, we pause, take a break, or shift gears.
- Clean and calm environment: In-home sessions make this so much easier. Your dog feels safe in their own space, and your baby gets the benefit of a familiar, relaxed setting.
The result is photos that look natural because your pup is happy, comfortable, and never pushed beyond their comfort zone.
Want to learn more about how to safely introduce dogs to your new baby? Here is a link to recognized experts on dog + baby safety:
- ASPCA — introducing dogs to babies
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/introducing-your-dog-your-new-baby
Preparing Your Dog for the Photo Session
A little prep goes a long way toward a smoother experience for everyone. Before I even start photographing, I take a moment to meet your dog and let them warm up to me. Here’s what helps most:
- Exercise first: A walk before I arrive can help take the edge off extra energy.
- Bring comfort items: Favorite toys or a blanket can keep your dog calm and focused.
- Assign a handler: Having one adult whose main job is to help with the dog makes everything run smoother. They can step in, grab a leash, or reward good behavior while I focus on the baby.
- Keep it familiar: Because I bring my traveling studio setup into your home, your pup gets to stay in their safe space, which helps them relax.
Posing Ideas That Work (And Ones to Avoid)
When it comes to posing dogs and newborns, less is more.
- Favorite poses: Dogs lying next to parents who are holding the baby, baby in a basket with the dog laying alongside, or parents cuddling while the dog rests close by. These allow everyone to be part of the frame without added stress.
- What I avoid: Forcing dogs to sit right next to or over a newborn. Even the most gentle dogs can be unpredictable, and I never ask them to do something unsafe.
- Creative setups: Using rugs, baskets, or even just the family couch allows me to highlight the bond without crowding anyone.
What makes these images so powerful is that they feel natural: your dog being their sweet self while your baby is safe and content.
Managing the Chaos: Tips for a Smooth Session
Let’s be real: adding a newborn and a dog into one session can sound like chaos. But with patience and flexibility, it almost always turns into magic.
I usually start by photographing your dog alone or with the family first, while they’re curious and alert. Then we can move to baby-only photos or bring them together if the dog seems calm. I build in time for breaks because babies need feeding, dogs need snacks, and parents need to breathe.
The best moments often happen in between the “perfect poses”, when your pup leans in unexpectedly or when your newborn stretches their hand toward their furry sibling. Those unscripted moments are pure gold.
Creating Images That Last a Lifetime
At the end of the day, newborn sessions that include pets aren’t just about getting the perfect Instagram-worthy shot. They’re about telling the whole story of your family: the love, the chaos, and the bond that makes your crew complete.
I’ve learned over the years that pets bring an extra layer of authenticity to newborn sessions. They remind us that family comes in all shapes, sizes, and sometimes with a wagging tail.
If you’re considering including your dog in your newborn photos, know that it’s not only possible but can be one of the sweetest decisions you’ll make. With the right preparation, safety measures, and a little patience, you’ll walk away with images that capture this fleeting season in its truest form.
Ready to Plan Your Session?
If your pup is your first baby, let’s celebrate that in your newborn session. Reach out to learn more about how we can include the whole family (yes, even the four-legged members) in your Atlanta Newborn Session that you’ll treasure forever.
View Newborn Portfolio
Contact Scarlet Oak Photography
November 4, 2025
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