Minneapolis Family Photographers Who Allow Pets in Their Studio
If you've been searching for a "Minneapolis photographer that allows dogs in studio" or "can I bring my dog to my maternity session," then I am here for you! It is my goal to preserve memories of your love and connection as a family and that means we include our pets, too because they are family, too.
As a mom of three girls plus two fur babies (and someone who has photographed a lot of Minneapolis families over the past 10+ years), incorporating pets into my newborn, maternity and family sessions comes naturally. So let's talk about what it actually looks like to bring your pet into a professional photography studio here in the Twin Cities and what to expect during your session.
Why More Minneapolis Studios Are Going Pet-Friendly
A few years ago, pet-friendly studios were the exception. Now, they're becoming the expectation — especially for maternity and newborn clients who want their whole household represented in their gallery. Here's what's driving the shift:
Pets are often the "first baby." For a lot of expecting parents, their dog or cat was their practice run at parenthood. Leaving them out of maternity photos can feel like leaving out a family member.
Sibling sessions now include pets, Newborn clients increasingly ask for a shot of the family dog gently sniffing or curled up near the baby.
Clients want authenticity, not staged perfection. A slightly wrinkled blanket and a golden retriever's nose in frame reflects details of real life!
What This Looks Like at My Studio
My studio is tucked inside the Strong Scott Building in Northeast Minneapolis, and yes — I welcome well-behaved pets into all of my newborn, maternity, and family sessions. Pets add a wonderful energy to your pictures and also help clients to relax because they are able to focus on something that brings them comfort and joy. I treat pets the same way I treat toddlers: with patience, treats, and zero pressure to get "the perfect shot". A few things I typically recommend to clients bringing a pet to their session:
Bring your pet after a walk, if possible — a little pre-session energy burn goes a long way.
Pack their favorite treats and a squeaky toy. I'll use these to get attention on camera at just the right moment.
Have a leash and a helper on hand. I often recommend bringing along a friend or family member to assist during your session. Even the calmest dog does better with someone dedicated to handling them between shots and it can be comforting to them in a new space. It is also less stressful on you!
Keep expectations realistic. We might get five perfect frames with your pup, and that's more than enough — I'd rather capture five genuine moments than force fifty staged ones.
Finding the Right Fit in the Twin Cities
Minneapolis has a wonderful, growing community of photographers who understand that family portraits should reflect your actual family. Whether you end up booking with me or another local studio, my best advice is the same: ask specific questions, look at real galleries that include pets, and choose someone who treats your pet as a full participant in the story, not an afterthought squeezed in at the end.
If you would like your pet included into your maternity, newborn, or family photo session, contact me and we will discuss all of the details!
FAQ: Booking a Pet-Friendly Session
Do I need to tell you in advance that I'm bringing a pet? Yes, please! Let me know when you book (or as soon as you decide) so I can plan extra time into your session and make sure the studio is set up for a smooth experience for both your pet and your baby bump.
Is there an extra fee for including my pet? No, pets are considered part of your family and no extra fee is required.
How far in advance should I book? Because newborn and maternity sessions are time-sensitive, I recommend booking as early in your pregnancy as you can — ideally by the time you're in your second trimester, so we have flexibility on timing as your due date approaches.
What if my pet gets anxious or overwhelmed during the session? Totally normal, and no pressure. We'll take things at their pace.
Can I bring more than one pet? Of course — just let me know how many (and what kind) ahead of time.
How do I book my session? Reach out through my website or give the studio a call, and we'll find a date that works, talk through your vision for the session — pets and all — and get you on the calendar.
Did you know that I am a Master Newborn and Maternity Photographer? This means that I have had training in newborn safety and my work has been evaluated and awarded by the National Association of Portrait and Child Photographers (NAPCP). I want you to have full confidence that you will have the best experience!
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