Family Photo Session with Dog in Kingston
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to overlook the simple joys that bring us together as a family. One delightful way to create lasting memories is through a family photo session, and what better way to make it extra special than by including our four-legged family member? This blog post is about one such family; it was a gorgeous autumnal family photo session with their beloved dog.
Family Photoshoot With a Dog
The day began with a mix of excitement and anticipation. I arrived at the family home to be greeted by a very excited cocker spaniel, and a very excited one year old. As we prepared to go outside to a park the family frequents, I took out my camera and started photographing the family getting ready. This enabled me to capture a few genuine expressions, as no one was focusing on me being there. I love the above photo of the girl looking at her dad while her mum was dressing her up - such intensity in one look!
Outdoor Family Photo Shoot
Selecting the right location for this family photo session was crucial. We opted for a scenic park with lush greenery, providing a natural backdrop that beautifully complemented the family's dynamics. The wide-open spaces allowed the dog to run around freely, while a few more formal areas provided some colour and a nice backdrop.
The Unpredictable Joy of Pets
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the photo session was the unpredictable joy that the dog brought to the experience. She brought an infectious energy into the session, creating candid moments that I hope the family will cherish forever. The genuine smiles and laughter captured in these images are a testament to the joy this little furry bundle brings to the family dynamic.
Indoor Family Photography Session
After we spent about an hour outside, it was snack time so we headed back home. After a bit of a rest and recuperation, it was time to take a few family portraits at home, as well as some children’s portraits of the little girl, in her home.
This was one of my favourite family photography sessions with a dog. It was filled with laughter, love, and the unpredictable charm that pets bring to family life. It was a day of creating cherished memories, both in front of and behind the camera. As I look back at the images, I am reminded that the essence of family lies not in perfection but in the genuine moments we share, and including our furry friend made those moments all the more special. So, the next time you plan a family photo session, consider inviting your dog along for the ride—you may just capture the magic of your unique family dynamic. Please have a browse through the gallery below and contact me if you would like to arrange a family photo session with your pet.
Family Photo Session in Bushy Park
This family photo session started in Bushy Park, and continued in the family home close by in Teddington. It was a really nice summer day (I am so behind on my blog posts!) , it was overcast which provided even lighting for my subjects.
We spent the first 15-20 min of the session chatting and getting to know each other. Working as a family photographer, I learnt that this part of the session is the most important. It breaks the initial ice so clients can relax and enjoy the rest of the session. We were looking for some nice areas for a group shot; Busy park can be a bit tricky in terms of locations as it is so open and flat. I saw an old oak tree which I was keen to include into the family portrait - a symbol of strenght, stability and longevity. After that initial family portrait, it was time for cuddles and play. After a short walk, we came to a stream which was the perfect setting to explore the surroundings and look for interesting wildlife living in the stream and on the banks. Getting children to engage with their parents is the best way of obtaining natural looking images.
I really enjoyed this family photoshoot and love some of the photos; they bring joy and put a smile on my face. I hope you like them too.
Following the outdoor session, we went back home for some snacks and quiet time. I wanted to photograph the little girl with the family dog, which proved trickier than planned, but we managed to get them sitting next to each other in the end.
At the end of each photoshoot, I like to do something slightly different and experiment. It is a time when I have fun and try out different things - sometimes it works, sometimes it doesnt. On this occasion, I spotted a lovely painting which the family bought in Australia, while living there. I learned that it was a piece of Aboriginal art, so I was keen to include it in the photograph. It was a rather unglamorous scene - both parents holding the painging while also making sure the baby doesn’t fall flat on its face. In the end, it was a triumph - no injuries and a lovely meaningful background for children’s portraits. I hope you like it as much as I do.
If you are considering having family portraits done, either with or without your dog, please do contact me for more information and to arrange a session. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing your ideas!
Dog Photo Shoot with Family
Family Dogs
Family Dogs is a personal project which documents the relationship families have with their dogs and vice versa. The project came about from my two photography passions - photographing dogs and photographing families. It is currently in its third month and I am greatly enjoying meeting all the fabilous dogs and their owners.
Working on location
Working as a dog photographer, I photograph dogs all over London and the Soth East. This project, however is focused on Surrey dogs and photoshoots take place mainly in outside locations. This particular photoshoot, with the sweetest little cavapoo you’ll ever meet, took place in the family home.
Family Photography with Dogs
This family has a really special bond with their dog. She is adored by the whole family and loves being cuddled. I wanted to capture the bond children have with her, but also how the whole family interacts with her. Photography sessions with children and dogs can be tricky but this particular dog was like a model - as soon as she heard the camera clicking, she would look straight at me, raise her ears and pose. In my career working as a dog photographer, I haven’t seen anything like it!
Getting Involved
If you have a pet and would like to get involved in this project please fet in touch at info@minamilanovic-photography.com. I would love to hear from you!
Photography Gift Vouchers
I offer gift vouchers for pet photoshoots, family photo sessions, newborn photoshoots and couple photo sessions. If you are looking for a different kind of present for a birhday, an anniversity or christmas, do get in touch or visit my store where you can directly buy photography gift certificates.
London Dog Photographer | Family and Pet Photoshoot
Family and Pet Photoshoot
I recently did a family and pet photoshoot with an eight month old baby and the most gorgeous chocolate lab Lola. Lola is the perfect family dog - calm, trustworthy, loving and so incredibly tolerant. She has become somewhat of a nanny to the family’s youngest addition, and it was lovely to follow the two of them around the house, photographing them playing, interacting and relaxing together. Lola’s expressions made me lough at times, there were definitely a few “Oh, no, not again!” looks.
Professional Family and Pet Photographer
I love photographing children, and I love photographing dogs. Often clients comment on what a combination that is! Although challenging and frustrating at times, I find that if I don’t try to control the situation but let the interaction happen spontaniously, photo opportunities present themselves organically and I just need to be there at the time to capture the magic unfolding. I love the little sequence of the baby and Lola interacting - it is the little looks, touches and smiles that melt my heart.
If you would like to arrange a family photo session, or a pet photo session, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.
London and Surrey Dog Photographer
I work all across London, Surrey, and the South East photographing dogs and their owners. I have photographed dogs in Hampstead Heath, Richmond Park, Bushy Park, Marble Hill Park and beautiful Surrey Hills. The outdoor location provides the perfect setting for dogs to run, jump, splash in water, roll in mud and chill out in the sun. I can also take photos of your pet in your own home, relaxing in his favourite chair or exploring her favourite part of the garden.
Although I mainly work in and around London, Surrey and the South East, I am more than happy to travel to other destinations. However due to extra time and occasionally an overnight stay, this type of work may involve additional fees. Please contact me if you would like to enquire.
Pet Photography Gift Vouchers
If you are looking to give a gift of photography to your loved one, you’ve come to the right place! My pet photography gift vouchers are the perfect birthday, anniversary, mother’s day or Christmas gift. For more information, please visit my Gift Voucher page.