Newborn Photoshoot with a Family Dog in Putney | London Newborn Photographer
Newborn photo session are always so special. I feel so honoured when people invite me to document this most special time for any family, when they welcome a brand new family member into their family.
I recently had the pleasure of photographing a beautiful newborn session in Putney, South West London, where the newest member of the family was introduced to their gentle and affectionate four-legged companion, who was adopted some two years prior. These early weeks pass so quickly (and in a blur), so it was a joy to document the quiet moments, tiny details and genuine connections that make this chapter so memorable.
A Relaxed Newborn Photoshoot at Home in Putney
For many families, home is the perfect location for newborn photography. It is the first place you bring your baby home after you’ve come back from the hospital, or in some cases, the place where your baby was born. It is where you and your baby feel most comfortable and where some of your first memories together are being made.
This session took place in a lovely Putney home filled with natural light and plenty of cosy corners. Rather than using elaborate props or complicated posing, the focus was on capturing authentic family moments. The parents cuddled their baby on the sofa (four legged baby as well), admired tiny fingers and toes, fed the baby when it came time for it and simply enjoyed being together.
Working in a familiar environment helps everyone relax, including older siblings and, of course, family pets.
Including Your Dog in Newborn Photographs
Family pets are just that - a part of the family and therefore an important part of the story. Many dogs (and cats) are wonderfully gentle and curious around their new human sibling. During this Putney newborn photo shoot, the family's dog stayed close by throughout the session, occasionally checking in on the baby and happily posing for a few photographs. In fact, he was star of the show!
There is never any pressure for pets to perform. I work discretely and allow them to be themselves and incorporate them naturally into the photographs whenever the opportunity arises. Occasionally I would encourage them to keep a pose with a treat (or two) but I would always be following their lead.
Capturing Natural Family Connections
My approach to newborn photography is centred around connection and rooted in storytelling. I want to tell a visual story of this precious time in your family’s journey, by observing and capturing moments which happen naturally and tell the story of your baby’s first few weeks. Newborn babies rarely follow a schedule, and that is completely fine. Sessions are relaxed and baby-led, with plenty of time for feeding, changing and cuddles. Some of the most meaningful photographs often happen when everyone relaxes in each other’s company and forget that I am there taking photographs.
A parent gently rocking their baby to sleep
A dog resting protectively nearby
Tiny yawns and stretches
Proud smiles exchanged across the room
Quiet moments of wonder as families settle into life with a newborn
These are the memories that families often treasure most years later.
Why Putney Is Perfect for Family Photography
Putney is one of my favourite areas of South West London for family photography. With its beautiful residential streets, nearby green spaces, the River Thames and abundance of natural light-filled homes, it provides a wonderful backdrop for relaxed newborn sessions.
Many families choose to keep the entire session indoors, while others like to include a short walk outside if the weather is suitable. This creates a lovely variety of images and helps tell the full story of life during those precious early weeks. During this particular shoot, it rained heavily when we started but we managed to go out during a break in clouds and change the scenery for the second half of the shoot.
Timeless Newborn Photography That Includes the Whole Family
When families look back on their photographs, they often tell me how grateful they are that everyone was included. For me, newborn photography is not only about the baby. It is about the love and relationships that surround them from the very beginning. Proud parents. Loving grandparents. The smiles that greet them. The family dog who quickly becomes their loyal companion. These connections are what transform photographs into cherished family heirlooms.
About Me
Hello, my name is Mina. I am a London and Surrey newborn, family and pet photographer.
My photography style is natural, relaxed and centred around genuine family connection. Rather than relying on heavy posing or complicated setups, I create photographs that reflect real family life and the unique personalities of the people (and pets) I photograph.
I photograph newborn sessions across London, Surrey and the South East. Many of my newborn photography clients come from Putney, Wimbledon, Richmond, Twickenham, Teddington, St Margaret’s, Barnes, Fulham and Wandsworth because they love the convenience of a relaxed session in their own home.
To learn more about my newborn photography approach, please visit my newborn photography page.
Newborn Photography Gift Vouchers
Looking for a thoughtful gift for new or expecting parents?
Newborn photography gift vouchers make a wonderful present for baby showers, maternity leave gifts, grandparents-to-be or friends welcoming a new arrival.
A professional newborn photography session provides something that becomes increasingly valuable with time: meaningful memories preserved for future generations.
Gift vouchers are available in a range of values and can be personalised for the recipient. Please get in touch for more information or to arrange purchasing a personalised gift voucher. You can also visit my gift vouchers page to look at available options.
Book Your Newborn Photoshoot
If you are expecting a baby and would love natural newborn photographs that include your family dog, I would be delighted to hear from you.
The ideal time to book is during pregnancy, although last-minute enquiries are always welcome where availability allows.
Whether you live in Putney, Wimbledon, Richmond, Wandsworth, Chiswick, Fulham, Kensington, Chelsea elsewhere in South West London, or in Surrey, I can create a relaxed photography experience that captures this fleeting and extraordinary stage of family life.
Get in touch to discuss your newborn photography session and begin planning photographs that tell your family's story.
What This Putney Newborn Session Was Really Like
This particular baby was just three weeks old, and their mixed breed family dog was a bit anxious around me at first, but then warmed up and remained wonderfully calm throughout the session. The baby was tiny, so so gorgeous, calm and curious about the world around her. We began the session at home where the natural light was beautiful. We took a break then headed off outside for a walk and a few natural outdoor newborn and dog shots around the neighbourhood.
“Thank you so much for all the photos, they’re absolutely perfect. Thanks again for such a wonderful experience and for capturing our little family so beautifully. We know these are photos we’ll treasure for many years to come.”
Planning a Newborn Photoshoot with Your Dog
One of the questions I am asked most often is whether family dogs can be included in a newborn photoshoot. The answer is almost always yes. Dogs are an important part of the family, and including them in your photographs helps tell the complete story of this special chapter in your lives.
When Should You Book?
The best time to book your newborn photography session is during pregnancy, ideally after your 20-week scan. This allows plenty of time to reserve space in my diary around your due date. Since babies rarely arrive exactly when expected, I keep flexibility around booked due dates and schedule the actual session once your baby has arrived.
While many families choose to have their newborn photographs taken within the first two weeks after birth, beautiful and meaningful images can be created at any stage during the first few months.
How Are Dogs Included in the Session?
Every dog is different, and I always work around their personality and comfort level. Some dogs are naturally calm and enjoy lying beside the baby, while others prefer to stay close to their owners and observe from a distance. Both approaches can result in beautiful photographs.
Rather than forcing poses, I incorporate pets naturally into the session. This might include family cuddles on the sofa, gentle interactions between the dog and baby, a walk outdoors, or simply capturing your dog relaxing nearby while you spend time with your newborn.
The aim is always to create photographs that feel genuine and reflect your family's real relationships.
Safety Always Comes First
Your baby's safety and your dog's wellbeing are my highest priorities throughout the session. Newborns and dogs are never left unattended together, and I never ask pets to do anything that makes them uncomfortable or stressed.
Many of the photographs that appear effortless are carefully planned and taken with safety in mind. Sometimes a parent may be positioned just outside the frame, or images may be created in a way that ensures everyone remains comfortable and secure throughout.
A relaxed environment helps both babies and dogs feel at ease, resulting in natural and authentic photographs.
What If My Dog Is Energetic?
Please don't worry if your dog is young, excitable or full of energy. This is incredibly common, and I have photographed many lively dogs over the years.
Often, it helps to take your dog for a walk before the session begins. We can also start by allowing them time to become familiar with me and my camera equipment. There is no expectation that your dog will sit perfectly still or perform on command.
Some of the most memorable images come from spontaneous moments and playful interactions. Patience, flexibility and a sense of humour are often all that is needed.
What Should We Bring?
One of the benefits of an at-home newborn session is that you already have almost everything you need. Your baby's favourite blankets, nursery, cuddly toys and meaningful family items can all help make the photographs more personal.
If your dog has a favourite toy, blanket or treats, it can be helpful to keep these nearby. Treats can be particularly useful for encouraging attention during family portraits.
What Should We Wear?
Soft, neutral colours tend to photograph beautifully and create a timeless look that won't date. Creams, soft greys, muted blues, earthy tones and gentle pastels work particularly well.
Try to avoid large logos, bold patterns and bright neon colours, which can distract from the connection between family members.
Most importantly, choose clothing that feels comfortable and allows you to relax. The focus of the session is not perfect outfits, but the love, connection and excitement that come with welcoming a new baby into the family—including the four-legged members too.
How long does a newborn session last?
Most sessions last between two and three hours, allowing plenty of time for feeding, cuddling and settling your baby.
Can nervous dogs be included in family photographs?
Absolutely. We will work around your dog’s needs. For example, if you dog is nervous when people come into your home, we can meet outside first, then go back home for some cosy homey shots. We can arrange the photo session so that the first half hour we dedicate towards your dog getting used to me and settling in.
Looking to find out more about including dogs in newborn photo sessions?
If you would like to include your pet in a newborn photo session, and need more information about the process, please visit my Advice page which has the details on what to expect, how best to prepare and some practical tips.
To see some of my other work with newborn babies and dogs, please visit my Outdoor Newborn and Pet Photography Wimbledon Common blog post, or Outdoor Newborn Photography Surrey Hills blog post.
To enquire about availability, or to book a newborn session, please get in touch.
