Photographing Humans with their pets

Do you Photograph Pets With Owners?

Absolutely! Including owners in pet photography sessions is something I always recommend. About 60% of my sessions feature the owner, usually for a small portion of the session, but the impact of those images is huge. Even if clients are unsure, I encourage them to participate because they can always choose not to purchase the images later, but once the session is over, that opportunity is gone.

Many owners hesitate because they worry about how they look — concerns about hair, weight, or age are common. I totally understand! That’s why I provide guidance on clothing choices and natural posing. My goal is to make everyone feel comfortable and confident, so the resulting photos truly capture the love and connection they have with their pets.

When owners are included, I use a mix of posed and candid/lifestyle shots. Some of my favorite sessions have been when the emotional bond between pet and owner really shines through. For example, I recently photographed a woman with her “heart dog,” a corgi who was ill but still full of joy. You could see the deep love and connection between them.

These photos are incredibly special because they showcase a relationship that is often stronger than relationships with humans. That connection is what makes pet photography so meaningful.

Sometimes pets get overly excited when their owners are present. While this can make a session a little chaotic, it also creates opportunities for spontaneous, joyful candid moments. To keep things flowing, I use sounds to get the dog’s attention, and if there are multiple dogs, I sometimes work with an assistant to manage the energy.

Including owners in pet photography isn’t just about taking a picture; it’s about capturing the bond, personality, and shared moments that define the relationship between a pet and their person. Those images become cherished memories.