If you’re anything like me, your dog isn’t “just a pet.” They’re part of your everyday life — walking the trails at Carolina North Forest, hanging out on the porch, or joining the kids at Wilson Park. When it’s time for family photos, leaving them out feels incomplete.
Including your pup adds joy, energy, and authenticity to your session. Whether they’re proudly sitting with the group or sneaking in a nose kiss, your dog helps tell the real story of your family.
What Dogs Add to Your Session
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Energy and laughter: Kids light up when their pup is nearby, and you get natural smiles.
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Candid magic: Dogs love to improvise, which makes for unforgettable portraits.
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A complete family portrait: Because your family feels whole when your four-legged friend is there, too.
Favorite Dog-Friendly Locations in Chapel Hill & Carrboro
We’re lucky to have so many great outdoor backdrops nearby that welcome dogs:
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Carolina North Forest (Chapel Hill): Gorgeous wooded trails, especially stunning with fall color, and Bolin Creek winding through.
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Southern Community Park (Chapel Hill): Open fields, trails, and a dedicated dog park for playful moments.
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Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park (Carrboro): A relaxed, open setting perfect for families with kids and pets.
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UNC’s Coker Arboretum (Chapel Hill): Dogs on leash are welcome, and the mix of natural and campus charm makes for timeless portraits.
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Bolin Creek Trail (Carrboro): A favorite for families who want photos in a natural, relaxed setting.
Each of these spots offers space for your dog to move, explore, and be themselves — which is exactly what we want to capture.
Studio Dog Portraits
In addition to outdoor family sessions, I also offer studio portraits of dogs — and they’re some of the most fun sessions I’ve ever done. Studio setups let your dog’s personality shine in a different way: bold, clean backdrops that highlight their quirks and expressions.
These portraits often end up as statement pieces — the kind of photo you frame big and bold, maybe even with a garish frame, and hang proudly in your home. They’re conversation starters, keepsakes, and a way to celebrate your dog in a style that feels both playful and timeless.
I’ve photographed dogs of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments in the studio, and with a little patience (and plenty of treats), we always capture something special. If you’re interested, I’ll be sharing a few examples in this post so you can see how striking these portraits can be.
Tips for a Smooth Session with Your Pup
Don’t worry if your dog isn’t perfectly trained — that’s half the fun! Here are a few things that help:
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Bring treats or a favorite toy to keep them engaged.
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Plan the session around their energy (a short walk beforehand is great).
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Go with the flow — the candid, unscripted moments often become the most cherished photos.
Dogs of Every Age Deserve the Spotlight
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Puppies: Silly, playful energy and endless cuteness.
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Adults: Personality shining through, whether goofy or calm.
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Seniors: Gentle, soulful portraits that honor years of love.
Let’s Capture the Whole Family
Your dog is a huge part of your story — and they belong in your family portraits. Years from now, you’ll be grateful to look back on images that show your family exactly as it was: wagging tails, big smiles, and all.
If you’re planning family photos in Chapel Hill or Carrboro, bring your pup along. Whether it’s an outdoor adventure or a bold studio portrait, I’d love to help you capture portraits full of joy, connection, and personality.
Ready to book your session? Let’s make it happen — paws included. Head over to my contact page.
