If your dog is basically your child (same), I want you to know that they are so welcome in your family session. In fact, some of my favorite moments have come from letting a pup do their thing—whether that’s stealing the spotlight or just trotting in and out of frame like the goodest background actor ever.

This particular St. Pete beach session was a reminder of how beautiful it can be to include your dog in a setting that’s relaxed, open, and 100% pet-friendly. The light was dreamy, the sand was soft, and the vibe? Easygoing, happy, and full of playful energy.

Why I Love Dog-Friendly Sessions

For a lot of families, pets aren’t just part of the household—they’re part of the story. Including them in your session adds so much personality and realness to your photos. And when we’re shooting in a place that welcomes dogs (like this St. Petersburg beach location), it’s even easier to lean into the fun without worrying about logistics.

We kept things simple—plenty of space to walk, lots of natural movement, and a few treat breaks to keep everyone happy. The result was a session that felt real, unforced, and full of connection.

Tips for Bringing Your Dog to Your Photo Session

To make the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone (including your four-legged family member), here are a few pro tips:

• Bring a leash that looks good in photos (a simple leather or neutral one works best)
• Let them run before the session to get all their excess energy out.
• Pack treats + water—we’ll probably bribe your pup at least once 😉
• Bring a favorite toy or squeaker to grab attention when needed
• Consider a handler or friend to take your pup for a break if we do a few without them
• Let me know ahead of time so I can plan accordingly!

And if your dog has a lot of energy? No worries. I’ve seen it all. We’ll work with their personality—not against it. Whether they’re chill or chaos gremlin, we’ll make it work. Promise.

Choosing the Right Location for Dog-Friendly Sessions

Not every beach or park in Florida is pet-approved, which is why I always recommend chatting with your photographer (hey, that’s me) about the best spots. This St. Pete location is one of my faves for dog-friendly sessions because:

• It’s spacious + offers a ton of amazing photo spots
• Dogs are allowed which is a must when you want to include your fur baby
• There’s enough variety to capture both playful and posed moments
• The lighting is GORGEOUS near sunset

You can kick off your shoes, let the kids run, let the dog dig a little, and just be. That’s where the best photos come from.

Your Dog, Your Story

Whether your pup is a fluffy new addition or has been with you through all the chapters of your life, they deserve a place in your story. These photos are about capturing your real life—not some perfectly curated version of it. If real life includes a wagging tail and sandy paws, I’m here for it. And the best part? Just steps from the dog beach is the people beach, with the clean, white sand Florida is known for

Want to Include Your Dog in Your Family Session?

Let’s make it happen—joyful, real, and fur baby approved.

How to Include Your Dog in a Family Session (St. Petersburg, FL)
Your pup is part of the family, and they belong in your photos too! If you’re looking for a St. Petersburg family photographer who loves four-legged friends, I’d love to hear from you.
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