Senior Dog Photography in London: Aston's Clapham Common Photo Session
Some photo sessions stay with you long after the photos have been delivered. This was one of them. A few weeks ago I was contacted by a lovely couple who inquired about a senior dog photography session in London, with their beloved Pomeranian Aston. The couple was interested in having an outdoor lifestyle shoot in Clapham Common, during sunrise or sunset. They wanted natural outdoor photos of the three of them enjoying each other’s company, nothing too staged. His health had been deteriorating and they wished to capture his personality, energy and the special bond they shared while he was still feeling happy and enjoying life. They hoped to create photographs that would always remind them of Aston as he really was.
A natural dog and couple photoshoot at Clapham Common
We met on Clapham Common during a cloudy evening during the first of the heatwaves earlier this summer. Despite the weather, the conditions were perfect for a relaxed outdoor photography session.
I was instantly charmed by Aston. He was small but mighty! Full of character, incredibly sweet and friendly. I have to admit that I had always thought of Pomeranians as rather pampered little toy dogs, but Aston quickly proved me wrong! He was beautifully behaved, incredibly cuddly and very affectionate, while also being quite the poser in front of the camera. That combination made him a joy to photograph.
For a natural dog photography session, I don't want every photograph to look posed. Instead, I like to allow dogs to behave as naturally as possible and photograph the interactions between them and their people. For this session, that meant a mixture of walking photographs, relaxed portraits, cuddles and playful action shots.
“Thank you again for capturing such beautiful memories of us with Aston. They mean so much to us. We can’t wait to share them with our family and friends and to treasure them forever.”
Capturing Aston's personality
We began the shoot with a few sitting and walking photographs before giving Aston the opportunity to show off his athleticism and capture his more energetic side. I always try to include a mix of images during a pet photography session. Alongside beautiful dog portraits, I like to capture movement, personality and those little interactions that tell the story of a relationship. These are often the photographs that become the most meaningful as they capture something completely recognisable about your dog, and your interaction with them.
Golden hour on Clapham Common
Halfway through our session, the clouds began to part and we were treated to gorgeous soft light, the type photographers call “the golden hour”. It was the perfect way to finish our session, with everyone enjoying the evening and each other’s company. The changing light also gave us a lovely variety of photographs, from softer portraits to images of Aston moving through the grass with his owners.
Clapham Common is a wonderful setting for an outdoor family and pet photoshoot because there is plenty of space to move around and create a variety of images, even on busy evenings like this one.
A senior pet photography session to remember
This senior pet photo session was a joy to photograph from beginning to end. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the couple and Aston, and unravelling different sides of his personality. More importantly, I feel so honored that my clients put their trust in me to capture their special bond with Aston, and I am glad that I was able to leave them with a treasured memory of their time together.
Since the session, I discovered that Aston had sadly passed away.
His owners were incredibly grateful that they had chosen to have their photographs taken when they did, while Aston was still himself, happy, affectionate and full of life. That is one of the reasons I believe photographs of senior pets are so important.
When we live with our dogs every day, it can be difficult to notice how quickly things change. We remember the walks, the cuddles, the funny habits and the companionship, but photographs allow us to hold onto those memories. An outdoor senior dog photography session doesn't have to be about saying goodbye. It can simply be about celebrating your dog exactly as they are today.
When should you book a senior dog photography session?
There isn’t a single right time to book one. Dogs are considered senior from about age 7 and above, depending on their size, breed and an individual’s health.
Some people contact me when they start noticing changes in their dog, like more sleep, reluctance to go up and down the stairs, or if they have had a health scare (like in the case of Aston). Others, on the other hand simply want to document this stage of their life.
If your dog is elderly, unwell or approaching the end of their life, I would generally recommend getting in touch sooner rather than later. The session can always be adapted to your dog's needs. We can take things slowly, include plenty of breaks and choose a location where your dog feels comfortable. For some dogs that might be their favourite park; for others, a garden or their own home may be a better choice. The most important thing is that your dog is comfortable and that the location feels like them.
End-of-life pet photography in London
I also offer end-of-life pet photography for families who want to document the relationship they share with a much-loved pet during the final stage of their life.
These sessions are, similar to senior dog photography sessions, gentle, relaxed and centered around your pet. I will meet you in your home, or your favourite park and photograph you and your dog interacting, cuddling and playing, as well as details like their paws, the way they look at you or their much loved places around the house.
If you are considering an end-of-life pet photography session, you don't need to know exactly what you want before getting in touch. I am always happy to have a conversation, answer questions and talk through what might work best for your dog and your family.
For additional information and support, The Tilly Project is an international organisation connecting pet owners with end-of-life pet photographers and providing resources around anticipatory grief and pet loss.
Remembering Aston
I feel incredibly honoured that Aston's owners trusted me to photograph this chapter of their lives together.
Aston was much more than a beautiful little Pomeranian in front of my camera. He was a much-loved member of the family, and these photographs are now a record of the personality, affection and joy that he brought to their lives. Below are a few more photographs from our session. I hope you enjoy going through them all as much as I enjoyed taking them!
![A couple kissing their pomeranian during a senior dog photo session in London]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/514e0e34e4b0d4d5c3e1387c/fb9a68c2-63d5-4abb-820c-daa8883202fb/london-dog-photographer.jpg)
Looking for a London pet photographer?
If you have a senior dog or pet and want to capture the relationship you share with them, please get in touch. You can read more about senior dog photography sessions, how they are structured. what happens during and after the session and much more on my Senior Dog Photography page. I provide natural, relaxed senior dog and family photography in London and Surrey. I would love to hear about your dog and what you would like to remember about this stage of their life.
About your photographer
Hello. My name is Mina, I am a family and pet lifestyle photographer based in Surrey, photographing families and their much-loved pets across Surrey, London and the surrounding areas. My approach to pet photography is rooted in storytelling, focusing on telling your family’s story. My style is unobtrusive, natural with a focus on candid moments. Rather than expecting children, couples or dogs to sit perfectly and pose for the camera, I prefer to give everyone space to interact, play, walk and simply enjoy being together. The result is a collection of photographs that feels personal to you.
Family and Dog Photo Session in Paddington, London W9
A Heartwarming Family & Pet Photo Session in Paddington
Last spring, I received an email from a client who had been gifted a photography voucher for a baby and dog session. Her family wanted to capture some special moments for their daughter’s first birthday, so we began planning for a shoot later that year.
Fast forward to October, and we found ourselves meeting at their charming home in a quiet mews in Paddington, London. It was a crisp yet pleasant day, with overcast skies and just enough sunshine peeking through to keep things cozy.
Team Work For A Successful Family Photoshoot
The family was simply delightful—so playful, warm, and full of love. They really enjoyed spending time together, playing games with their daughter and sharing joyful moments. In my ten years as a family photographer across London and Surrey, I've learned that a successful session is truly a team effort. While I set the scene and guide the direction, it’s the parents' involvement that brings those authentic, candid moments to life. The more engaged they are, the more natural and creative the photos turn out.
At Home and Outdoor Family & Pet Photo Session
We started the session right outside their doorstep, spending around 45 minutes in the mews. The little one, their adorable daughter, had so much fun playing with her parents and their gorgeous black cockapoo—being thrown in the air, cuddles, tickles, and a fair bit of running around with the dog. Of course, there were also a few posed shots, and their dog made sure to steal the show in a few of them. In fact, I got creative and even used the pup to frame a portrait of the little girl. He was a star, and rightfully so!
Children Photography
When photographing families with young children, I often find it helpful to take a short break midway through. A snack, a change of clothes, or just a moment to unwind gives the little ones a bit of a boost for the second half of the session. After a quick breather—and some fun hide-and-seek portraits with their daughter inside—I suggested a change of scenery. We made our way to a nearby private garden for the next round of shots.
Autumnal Family & Pet Photography
As soon as we stepped through the garden gate, the sun finally emerged from behind the clouds, giving us that perfect autumnal glow. The golden light added a touch of magic to the family portraits, as well as some sweet couple shots and more playful images of their daughter.
Family Dog Action & Portrait Photography
To wrap things up, we headed back home for some action shots of the family dog. I had a little fun with this one, positioning him on top of a neighbor’s car (he was quite the model!). It was the perfect ending to a beautiful day of family and pet photography.
Reflections on Family Photography
Every family is unique, but what I love most about these sessions is how they capture the essence of connection—between family members and their pets, between parents and children, and the moments that truly tell a story. Photography is about more than just posing for the camera; it’s about creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Booking a Family Photo Session
If you are considering hiring a professional family photographer you’ve come to the right place! To find out more about family photo sessions, please visit my family photography services page. If you’ve already made up your mind, and you would like to book me in for a family session, or to mark your child’s first birthday, or baptism please contact me on mina@minamilanovic-photography.com or send me an enquiry though the contact form on my website. I look forward to hearing from you!
Photography Gift Voucher
Photography Gift Vouchers make unique and personal gifts for any occasion. Whether it is Mother’s Day, a first birthday, an anniversary, your beloved family pet, a baptism or arrival of a new family member, family & pet photography will capture precious memories which will be cherished in years to come. Contact me for more details, or visit my Store to find out more.
About Me
Hello! My name is Mina, I am a professional family & pet photographer based in Surrey, England. I love meeting new families and helping them capture the joy of their family. If you would like to find out more about me, please visit my “About Me” page. If you would like to know more about my family photo sessions, please visit the “Family Portraits” page. To discuss your upcoming family photo session, or family event like christening, birthday party or anniversary, please get in touch - I look forward to hearing from you!
London Dog Photographer | Dulwich Puppy Photoshoot
Couple & Puppy Photo Session in Peckham Rye Park, London
Work doesn’t get much better than this! Photographing an adorable 6 month old cavapoo puppy, on a warm spring sunny day, in London’s Peckham Rye Park. I was in heaven! As a London dog photographer, sessions like these are exactly why I love what I do - meeting great people, spending time with adorable puppies, visiting beautiful London parks. This couple and their puppy made the session such a pleasure, and Peckham Rye Park provided the perfect natural backdrop for a couple and puppy photo session filled with warmth and connection.
Puppy Photography Gift Vouchers
This lovely couple received a dog photography gift voucher from a family member, which is always such a meaningful and personal present. During our initial correspondance, the owner of the puppy sent me a photo to show me what kind of dog they had. It was instant cuteness overload! I was very excited to do the photoshoot and meet the puppy (and the couple of course!). Gift vouchers for puppy photography are a wonderful way to capture those fleeting early months, when dogs grow and change so quickly.
Peckham Rye Park Puppy and Couple Photo Session
After chatting about possible locations, we settled on Peckham Rye Park, a beautiful and diverse park in East Dulwich in London. It offers an amazing variety of backdrops in one place, from formal gardens, to open spaces, intimate nooks and even a small japanese garden - perfect for pet photography! This makes Peckahm Rye park the perfect place for puppy photography, dog photography, couple and puppy photography and family photography. The variety allows for a relaxed walk-and-shoot approach, keeping the session fun and natural rather than posed or rushed. I worked in this park many times, and it always surprises me with new wonderful places.
London Puppy Photography
The puppy was only 6 months old at the time of the photoshoot and still very much a puppy - playful, curious, and easily distracted (in the best way!). For puppies and young dogs, I usually recommend a 1h dog photo session. Puppies’ attention spans and physical endurance are limited, so shorter sessions tend to work best. I work at a quicker pace, limit the number of setups, and focus on capturing genuine moments rather than forcing too much variety. For a one-hour puppy photo session, clients typically receive a gallery of 25-30 images (rather than 60-100 from a two hour session). In my experience, this approach keeps puppies relaxed and owners happy, resulting in more natural, expressive photographs.
Dog Photography Gift Vouchers
If you are considering purchasing a potography gift voucher please visit my store. I provide puppy and dog photography gift vouchers, family photography gift certificates, and newborn baby gift vouchers. If you have a specific occasion you would like to purchase a voucher for, please contact me to arrange a custom designed gift voucher. I look forward to hearing from you!
Below you can see a few more photographs from this lovely couple & puppy photo session in Dulwich.
Book Your Couple & Puppy Photo Session Today
Booking a photo sesssion with me is easy! All you need to do is email me at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com, let me know what your requirements are and we will take it from there. Alternatively, you can fill out the contact sheet below.
London Dog Photographer | Puppy and Couple Photo Session at Chiswick House and Gardens
Chiswick House and Gardens Photography
The grounds of Chiswick House and Gardens are some of the most picturesque in West London. Chiswick House, one of the most recognisable examples of neo-Palladian architecture overlooks beautiful italian-inspired landscaped gardens. The house was build between 1725 and 1738 by architect William Kent and Richard Boyle, the third Earl of Burlington who rejected the then popular Baroque style in favour of simpler, symetrical style based on classical italian architecture. The house and gardens provided the perfect London backdrop for this couple & puppy photo session.
Puppy Photography in Chiswick
This was a dream photoshoot! A lovely couple, an adorable puppy and a beautiful setting to take photographs in. The youngest member of the team was a ruby six month old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a boy named Goji (yes - like the berry!). From my past experince working with puppies, I learned that puppies tire quickly so photographing them requires a quicker pace. We started off with a few portraits of the puppy before moving on to family portraits and action shots. I moved fairly quickly from shot to shot; the only multiple takes I did were walking shots and action shots. Goji was a true champ - not only did he manage to do absolutely brilliantly throughout the whole session, but he did so with a wag in his tail.
London Dog Photographer
I work all across London and the south East photographing dogs and their owners. I manily work outdoors, where I feel I am in my element and where dogs enjoy playing, running, walking and doing all the things dogs like to do. I have worked with many clients, ranging from families with a dog, to couples with a dog, to single people wanting some photographs of them with their pet, to people only wishing to have photos of their dog. I try to make the photoshoot as fun as possbile for everyone, and I genuinly enjoy creating memories for my clients which they can look back on with fond memories in years to come. For more information on my dog photography sessions and pricing, please visit my dog photography page.
Chiswick House Puppy and Couple Photography
To see a selection of photographs from this puppy and couple photoshoot in Chiswick House and Gardens, please continue to scroll below.
Your London Dog & Family Photographer
Hi! I am Mina, I am a family and pet photographer, living in Surrey but working all across London, Surrey and the South East. I love animals and photographing couples with dogs or families with dogs is my favourite type of photography! I consider it a part of my job to not only take photographs of you and your loved ones, but also to create a space where we can enjoy spending some time together, and where you can have a chance to be pressent, to connect with you partner, your children, your dog or your extended family. Capturing that connection then becomes an extention of a good time spent together. If you like my style of work and you would like to discuss your family portraits, please get in touch - I would love to hear from you!
Couple and Dog Photo Session in Greenwich Park
This was a really special couple and pet photo session as it was a surprise birthday present. We arranged to meet early in the morning in beautiful Greenwich park, to avoid the crowds. It was an overcast day in the middle of autumn, so the autumnal colours were on full display - the perfect setting for couple and dog photoshoot. I was eager to capture the bond between this couple and their dog, and also to showcase the stunning backdrop that is Greenwich park.
Couple and Dog Photoshoot
We started the session by taking a few formal portraits on the steps. I use the first 5-10 min of the session to assess the overall energy of the people and animals I am photographing. If everyone has calm energy, we can take it easy and do quite a few sitting down shots. If the energy is on the opposite side of the spectrum, I would change things around and start the session with action shots. This is particularly useful when a high energy dog, like this cheeky cocker spaniel is one of my subjects. I took a few frames of the couple sitting down, but then quickly moved to action photography.
Dog Photographer Taking Action Shots
Photographing dogs in action can be done in many ways, using slow shutter speed or fast shutter speed, dogs running, swimming or jumping. This little lady was really keen to run so I decided to take a few shots of her running right towards me, tongue out and ears flapping in the wind. I love the resulting shots - they are fun and showcase her high energy and fun-loving spirit.
Family Photography with a Dog
Once the dog had a good run around, it was time to regroup. We spent a bit more time in the park, walking around and finding a few more backdrops, initially in the park itself, then next to the cafe. I have really fond memories of this photoshoot, and Greenwich is quickly becoming my new favourite place to photograph couples and their dogs in.
The Perfect Gift with Pet Photography Gift Vouchers
In recent months, I have been doing more and more couple and pet photography sessions. These sessions are really fun and meaningful as they not only offer a unique way to capture your beloved pet, but also your relationship with it. If you are searching for a unique gift for the pet lover in your life, look no further than pet photography gift vouchers. These tokens of affection not only celebrate the bond between pets and their owners but also provide a lasting keepsake that will be treasured for years to come.
A unique Christmas gift
Pet photography gift vouchers offer a departure from the ordinary. Instead of traditional presents, they provide an experience that is both personal and meaningful. In a world inundated with material gifts, a pet photography session stands out as a thoughtful and unforgettable way to show someone you care. The recepient will not only receive a set of beautiful photographs but an experience they will treasure for a lifetime. A perfect Christmas present!
To purchase a gift voucher, please contact me or visit my store.
To see some more photos from this amazing couple and dog photo session, please visit the gallery below.
London Dog Photographer in Bushy Park
This was a fun session, photographing three Black labs. Well…Two Black labs and a lab-hungarian viszla cross. I photographed one of the labs a few years ago when she was only a puppy so it was really nice to be reunited and photograph this lovely lady enjoying Bushy park with her friends.
Autumnal Dog Photo Session
It was a sunny autumnal day, the sun was out but not too harsh and the dogs were happy, energetic and loving the camera! Autumn is a really nice season to be taking dog photographs. Days are still not too cold, the colours are gorgeous, the sun is lower in the sky so there is less glare and occasionally, if you are really lucky, there is mist and fog which add to the atmosphere. It is one on my favourite times to have dog photoshoots.
Photographing Multiple Dogs
I really enjoyed getting to know this little band and seeing their characters come through - the sensible one, the energetic one and the cheeky one - can you spot them all? Below are some of the photos from the shoot, I hope you love them as much as I do!
Outdoor Dog Photography
If you would like to arrange a multiple dog photo session, please give me a ring or send me an email. I love photographing dogs - the more the merrier!
Senior Dog Photo Session in East London
I recently photographed several senior dogs who were nearing the end of their life. Their owners wanted to document a few precious moments with them in their old age. They also wanted to celebrate their long life as well as the long friendship they had together.
Senior Dog Photography
This is Daisy, a black labrador who’s health was rapidly deteriorating. Her owners wated to have a few photographs of all of them together as a memory of their time. We arranged to meet at Dagenham in East London, and photograph Daisy at the Chase Nature Reserve where she loves going for walks. It was important to capture the couple together with Daisy, but also to photograph Daisy on her own, to capture her character and personality at her old age.
Meaningful Dog Photography
Senior dog photography sessions (or end of life dog photography sessions) are incredibly meaningful. As we strat to think about our pet nearing the end of their life, we revisit the journey we had with them from the moment we met them through all the big milestones and little moments in between. Some pets have been with us and members of our family for a very long time so naturally saying goodbye is hard and painful, and can feel devastating. From my own experience dealing with grief of a death of a pet, having some photos taken before you say your last goodbye is not only a nice memory but also the start of the greaving process.
End of Life Dog Photography
If you are interested in booking a senior dog photography session with me, please get in touch. I have photographed a few senior dogs recently and they were so special that I decided to make them available to more people. I am now offering free local one hour senior dog photo sessions (travel outside of my local area will be charged) which are well suited for one pet with their owner. Should you wish to extend the photo session to 2h and have your partner/family/other dog join in, a top up fee will be charged. Prints and digital files will be available to purchase. For more information, please email me through my website.
Couples photo session with dog in Wimbledon Common
Spring Photo Session with Dog In South London
Pets add a different dimension to a photoshoot, and it is no different with couples photography sessions. Whenever there is a dog involved, people and children tend to relax much quicker in front of the camera than in situations without a dog. So, during this spring couples and dog photography session in Wimbledon, we got straight into some loving and relaxed moments. It was an overcast day, which provided even lighting for all my subjects.
Dog and Couple Photography
I quite like to start the session with a together image of the couple and their four legged friend. This can be with a couple having a cuddle with their dog, or walking along a path. I try to observe the interaction and capture genuine moments which grab my attention and catch my eye. This path by a pond with trees scattered around appeared like a great setting for a walking (or running!) shot so we spent some time exploring different angles. This was my favourite image of the lot - I like how the trees in the foreground and background frame the dog and the couple in the distance.
Dog Portrait Photography
After the initial group shot, I move on and take several different dog portrait photographs. During this shoot, a lovely patch of sand by a pond in Wimbledon common caught my eye, so I decided to photograph the dog here. I love how the dog is contrasted by the sand in this portrait, no distractions but looking strait into her beautiful hazel eyes.
Surrey Dog Photographer
I work all across the South East, and have been to many beautiful locations. Surrey offers great locations for pet and couple photoshoots - it has beautiful towns, nature reserves and wooded areas but also has great countryside in the middle of urban areas - like Wimbledon common. This time of year, common gorse is in full bloom and Wimbledon common has plenty of gorse shrubs - a perfect backdrop! Incorporating nature into photoshoots gives a sense of place but also a sesnse of time as you will always be reminded of the time of year the photoshoot took place.
Photographing Dogs In Action
A dog photoshoot wouldn’t be complete without some fun action shots. Photographing dogs in action is great fun and reveals another layer of dog’s personality. Here - a head on action shot taken from a low angle, with three legs in the ear and ears flapping high, it shows the dogs love of running and makes for a really fun image.
Dog Photography Gift Vouchers
If you are thinking of having a couples photography session with your dog, or a family photo session with your dog, get in touch, I would love to hear from you! Alternatively, you can purchase a gift voucher as an alternative gift idea for your friend or loved one. I look forward to hearing from you!
If you’d like to view more photographs from this spring couples with dog photo session, check out the gallery below.
Dog Photo Shoot in Marble Hill Park
I had a privilage of photographing this elderly cocker spaniel in his favourite location - Marble Hill Park in East Twickenham. It was touch and go whether the photo session will go ahead as he had a health scare in the days leading up to the photoshoot. Luckly, he made it and he made it in style and good spirits! He was so sweet, and so keen to run around and chase his favourite ball. His owner had purchased a gift voucher for her partner, and wanted to surprise him with a set of photographs of his beloved friend.
Senior Dog Photography
Senior dog photo sessions are some of my favourite dog photography sessions. Senior dogs are gentle, calm and wise, but they often surprise with a spring in their step and a bounce in their run. Senior dog photography sessions celebrate dogs which have reached an older age and tell their stories in a set of beautiful photographs.
London and Surrey Senior Dog Photographer
As London and Surrey Senior Dog Photographer, I will work with you and your dog to create a customised session according to your dog’s needs and abilities. I will typically meet you at your home, favourite park or on your favourite walk and spend an hour or two photographing you and your dog. After the photoshoot, you will receive a private gallery with a selection of best photographs from the session. After you have selected your images, I will post digital files, prints or framed prints to your home address.
Get in Touch
If you would like to book a senior dog photography session, or chat about organising one, please get in touch by filling out the contact sheet on my website or drop me a line at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com
Surrey Family and Dog Photography
Family Dogs was a personal project which I ran last year, and which I hope to continue once the lockdown restrictions are eased on the 29th March. The aim of this project was to explore the relationship pets have with their families, and to do the project locally in Surrey.
As a Surrey dog photographer, I really enjoy meeting different dogs and getting to know them in the time I am there to photograph them. This little dachshund was a bit unsure when he first met me. It took him a little while to relax and be comfortable. During this time, I photographed the little girl who was all smiles and enjoyed hearing the click of my shutter button. When the dog relaxed, I was ready to photograph both the girl and the dog, and all the family together. This was the opportunity to capture some genuine and homey moments.
The outside session allowed me to experiment with family photography. I wanted to capture the family in a natural surrounding but also to use natural elements creatively in my photography. A fallen branch, a reflective surface and soft light provided some wonderful opportunities.
I really missed doing family photoshoots in Surrey the last few months and I can’t wait to get going again. You can see similar blog posts if you visit my blog. Please get in touch if you would like to participate in this project. If you would like to find out more about my family photoshoots, please visit my family photography page. If you have a dog and would like to find out more about my dog photo sessions, please visit my dog portraits page.
For information on photography gift vouchers, see my store.
Any questions - drop me a line!
