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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There’s something extra special about an in-home newborn session. It’s cozy, personal, and tells your story in the space where real life happens. But I totally get it—letting someone into your home (especially during those early postpartum days) can feel a little overwhelming. So today, I’m breaking down some of my favorite tips to make your session relaxed, meaningful, and totally doable.

And I just have to share this particular in-home newborn session in Tampa, because it was such an honor. Mom is actually a fellow photographer, which always feels like the highest compliment… and just a tiny bit nerve-wracking 😅. It’s humbling to be trusted by someone who does what I do—so naturally, I wanted to make the experience as seamless and comfortable as possible.

Why Choose an In-Home Newborn Session?

As a Tampa newborn photographer, I can tell you—there’s nothing quite like capturing a new family in their own space. No need to pack diaper bags, juggle car seats, or work around nap schedules. You’re already where you feel most at ease, and that calm energy always shows up in your photos.

Your home also adds a beautiful layer of storytelling. That couch where you cuddle with your baby every morning? The nursery you lovingly set up? They become part of the legacy we’re documenting. An in-home newborn session allows your photos to reflect your life, not just a Pinterest-perfect setup.

Tips to Prep Your Home (Without Going Overboard)

Let me be super clear: your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine. I’m not judging your dishes or your laundry pile. Promise.

But here’s what does help:

• Choose 2–4 spots in the home with good natural light—think big windows, sliding doors, or bright corners.
• Tidy just those areas. Seriously—move the mess to one side of the room if needed. I shoot from multiple angles, so the more space I can work with, the better.
• Turn off overhead lights (they cast weird yellow tones) and open up the blinds for that dreamy, soft light.
• If we’re doing baby-only shots, crank the heat a little. A warm room keeps your little one comfy and sleepy.

How to Prep Yourself + Baby

Don’t worry about everything being “perfect.” Honestly, I live for the in-between moments—nursing, rocking, soothing, diaper changes. It’s your real life, and it’s so worth capturing.

A few tips to make the session feel smoother:

• Feed baby just before I arrive so they’re nice and snuggly.
• For older kiddos, having snacks or a quiet activity nearby can be a lifesaver.
• Wear neutral, comfy clothes—skip logos or bright neon. Stick to tones that feel calm and true to you.
• Let toddlers be toddlers. The best photos come when they’re allowed to be themselves. I’ll guide them gently, but there’s no pressure for them to be quiet or still. I promise—I’d rather photograph a joyful, wild-hearted child than one who’s been told to “say cheese” a hundred times.
• And if your baby cries? That’s okay too. Chaos can still be beautiful.

The Energy of This Session

This particular session felt like magic. Seeing a photographer-mama fully hand over the reins and trust the process was so powerful. Big sister was full of life and totally rocked her role. Their home gave us the dreamiest light, the perfect cozy vibe, and everything felt real and warm from start to finish.

As a lifestyle newborn photographer in Tampa, these are the sessions that remind me why I do what I do.

Ready for Your Own In-Home Newborn Session?

Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, your story deserves to be told. In-home newborn sessions are raw, connected, and full of love—everything we want your photos to reflect.

If you’re in the Tampa Bay area and dreaming of relaxed, real-life newborn photos that feel like you, I’d love to hear from you.

In-home sessions capture your baby’s earliest days in the place that matters most—home. If you’re ready for a relaxed newborn session in Tampa or nearby, reach out and let’s get you on the calendar.
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