That's right! This is a pet-friendly zone and I've captured many memorable moments between humans and their fur babies! Over the years I've built quite the collection and thought it'll be fun to highlight some of those moments here. Maybe this post will inspire you to bring your favourite fluff ball with you on the next photo adventure, or you can just sit back and soak up the cuteness!
#1 Play Date At The Beach
We all know dogs love the beach! It gives them the freedom and space to play and be themselves. If you're not afraid of the mess, I can highly recommend a play date at the beach! Dress up or dress down and don't forget the doggy treats at home!
Aniska & Wenzel
In 2018 Aniska & Wenzel decided to celebrate their engagement by bringing their favourite pup with them on a trip to their favourite beach - Kommetjie! This is something they did regularly, only this time they invited me with to capture and freeze the moment in time.
Karlien & Albe
Back in 2016 Karlien & Albe brought their four furry friends with them to celebrate their engagement session at Bloubergstrand. They came as they were, celebrating their love for each other and their fur babies, being truly their authentic selves at their favourite spot.
Andrea & Christopher
In 2017 Andrea & Christopher took their two pups to Bloubergstrand. With a golden sunset and Andrea's flowery, flowy dress we had the time of our lives. We walked away with many memorable moments, and to this day this shoot is something near and dear to my heart.
#2 Involving Your Pets in Your Wedding
Can you imagine declaring your love in front of your friends and family, looking down the isle and seeing your pooch running towards you with your wedding bands tied around his neck? Can you imagine the pure joy you'll feel in that moment? I can understand that it's not always possible for may people and for many reasons, but I think if you can, involve your pets in your day in any shape or form!
Karlien & Albe
That's right, Karlien & Albe are die-hard dog (and beach) lovers! They got married at the iconic Strandkombuis and brought one of their baby pooches with them to deliver the rings during the ceremony and we managed to snap a few snaps of them all together during the couple shoot as well. Cuteness overload!
Francois & Francis
Francois & Francis had a lovely outdoor ceremony at Casa Labia and trained their Poodle pup to bring the rings when they called - he even did a little handshake! They did have a pet sitter during the ceremony to keep an eye on their baby and made sure to return him home safely after completing his ring bearer duties and being the favourite guest during canapes.
Kim & Natalie
After receiving some life-changing news Kim & Natalie decided upon an elopement at home in Wellington. With their parents and their pups as witnesses, they celebrated the day with those that truly matter.
#3 Other Memorable Moments
There are many reasons to celebrate life, milestones, and moments with your friends, family, and fur babies. Here I've highlighted but a few for you to view. From cosy at home moments, to adventuring to your favourite park, whatever brings you the most joy - it will definitely be worth it!
Victoria
I first met Victoria, Shane and their beloved fluffy Waffles on Victoria's 29th birthday celebration they hosted at their home. Soon thereafter I was contacted to capture the most adorable maternity session, to announce to the world (with Waffles front and centre) that their precious family was growing.
Cary
Cary organised with Boschendal to allow us to capture some classy and cute moments with their two doggos to celebrate their elopement. They dressed the pups up with cute bowties and we had the champagne popping!
Su-Ren
I count myself lucky to have photographed Su-Ren's beautiful family both times I've visited New Zealand. Their four-pawed baby, Muffin, was the first dog I've met who literally smiles when she's happy. They're a tight-knit family unit and I loved photographing them all together.
Alex
I was invited into Matthew & Mare's beautiful home to snap some newborn moments of their gorgeous baby Alex. This cute and cozy home session allowed me to capture some laid-back and intimate moments, where I got to meet their "first born" woof who was still adjusting to meeting the latest family member.
#4 What to keep in mind
As fun as it is to bring your fur baby along on a photo shoot it can also be chaotic.
- Remember to choose a location you're familiar with, ensuring it's pet-friendly and that any or all permissions have been arranged ahead of time.
- Even if you're confident that your photographer is comfortable photographing animals, do give a heads-up beforehand.
- A friend, family member, or professional pet sitter can help keep an eye on the doggos, limiting stress, helping you to have fun, and ensuring you're living your best life and enjoying the moment.
- Don't forget leashes, toys, and treats! Anything that will keep your pups happy, focused, and close by.
- Animals always have a will of their own, so keep in mind it might take a few tries to get that perfectly posed shot.
- You don't have to wait for the next big milestone to include your pets in your photo shoot, you can do it whenever you want just because you want to! Even if it's just to celebrate your fur babies cuteness and to immortalise it forever in a framed photo.
- You know your babies the best! Trust your head and your heart to make choices that'll ensure everyone is comfortable, happy, and having a good time.
- Lastly, you know what will or won't work for you. Pet photo shoots aren't for everybody and that's okay! Do what brings you joy!
Any hot tips, tricks, or opinions you'd like to share with me? Get in touch and share your thoughts with me!
