Let's be real for a minute: When was the last time your dog judged your outfit choice? Or your cat criticized your hair? Never, right? (Though those feline side-eyes can be pretty judgy.) Our pets love us unconditionally – bed head, mismatched socks, and all. So why on earth would we leave these furry family members out of our family photos?
The Real MVPs of Family Sessions
Picture this: The Anderson family arrived at our Portland studio last week, everyone perfectly coordinated in their blue and cream outfits. Mom had spent hours making sure every hair was in place. Dad had ironed his shirt twice. The kids were bribed with ice cream promises. And then... in bounded Max, their golden retriever, sporting a bandana and approximately half the backyard mud on his paws.
Know what happened next? Everyone RELAXED. The stiff poses melted away. Real smiles emerged. Max's enthusiasm was exactly the ice-breaker this session needed, and those muddy paw prints? We photoshopped them out of the backdrop but kept the ones on Dad's pants because, well, that's real life with a dog, isn't it - especially in Portland?
Why Pets Make Photos Better
After photographing families with their furry (and sometimes scaly) companions, I've noticed a pattern:
1. Pets bring authenticity. Nothing cuts through "photo awkwardness" faster than a cat who decides your shoulder is the perfect perch, or a dog who thinks "sit" means "give kisses."
2. They capture a complete family portrait. For many of us, pets aren't just animals – they're family members with their own personalities, quirks, and special place in our hearts.
3. They create memorable moments. Remember the Martinez family session where their rabbit escaped twice, their toddler chased it around the studio, and everyone was in tears laughing? Those photos aren't just portraits – they're a time capsule of joy.
The Fleeting Nature of Furry Love
Here's the bittersweet truth that every pet parent knows: Our animals' lives are shorter than ours. Their time with us, while immeasurably precious, is limited. Professional photos capture not just how they looked, but the connection, the bond, the love between you.
Sarah brought her 15-year-old lab, Cooper, in for a special session last month. "He's been with me through college, marriage, babies, and divorce," she told me. "I needed these memories preserved." We took our time, let Cooper rest when needed, and created images that captured his gray muzzle, soulful eyes, and the gentle way her children leaned into him. Two weeks later, she called to tell me Cooper had passed peacefully. Those photos? They're priceless now.
The LaLa Pet Promise
At LaLa Photography, we don't just tolerate pets – we welcome them with open arms, plenty of treats, and a lint roller or two! Our promise to you:
We'll take our time. No rushing pets who need to explore the studio first.
We speak pet. From squeaky toys to smoochie sounds, we know how to get the perfect expression.
We're prepared for accidents. (It happens to the best pets!)
We capture the relationship, not just the pet sitting perfectly.
From Chaos to Frame-Worthy: The Magic of Pet Photography
Let me tell you about Thomas and his eight puppies. Yes, EIGHTPUPPIES in a studio session. Impossible, you say? Challenge accepted!
With patience, strategic treat placement, and what can only be described as puppy-whispering magic, we captured all nine puppies with Thomas. Was it chaotic? Absolutely. Did someone get peed on? Maybe, but I was okay with it. Was it worth it? TOTALLY. That portrait now hangs proudly in his home – a testament to both their family bond and our studio's dedication to pet-inclusive photography.
But My Pet Won't Behave!
Hear me out: The "misbehaving" moments often make the best photos.
Your dog's excited zoom-around? Pure joy captured in motion.
Your cat's refusal to look at the camera? Classic feline attitude worth remembering.
Your bird perching on your head instead of your finger? That's a story to tell!
The Memory-Keepers
Photos with pets do more than decorate your walls – they preserve memories that fade too quickly:
The way your toddler and puppy grew up together
How tiny your now-massive cat once was in your arms
The special bond between your teenager and the pet who listens without judgment
The complete family unit, fur members included
Book Your Fur-Family Session
Ready to capture the complete picture of your family? Let's create images that include ALL your loved ones – the two-legged AND the four-legged variety.
P.S. Yes, we've photographed families with dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, guinea pigs, bearded dragons, and one memorable session with a very well-behaved pet snake. Your fur (or scale) family is welcome here!
Ready to include your pets in your family portraits? Book your pet-friendly photo session at LaLa Photography today! Call us at 971-801-0033 to chat about how we can capture your complete family. Treats provided, belly rubs included!
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