Your wedding day is all about celebrating with your loved ones—and yes, that includes your furry friends! Pets are family, and having them be part of your wedding day (and photos!) adds so much personality and heart to the celebration. Whether it’s your dog walking down the aisle or just popping in for a few photos, including your pet can make your day feel even more you.
Of course, it does take a little extra planning to make sure everything runs smoothly. That’s where I come in. As a wedding photographer (and fellow animal lover), I’ve learned a few tried-and-true tips to help couples include their pets on their wedding day.
1. Make Sure Your Venue Is Pet-Friendly
Before you start planning your pet’s big debut, make sure your venue is pet-friendly. Some venues welcome pets, while others may have specific restrictions—like only allowing them for portraits or requiring them to stay outdoors. It’s always best to double-check in advance to avoid any surprises on the day.
If your heart is set on including your furry friend, look for outdoor venues, garden spaces, or private estates, which tend to be more flexible. And don’t forget to ask about details like leash policies or designated pet areas to help things go smoothly when it’s photo time!
2. Have a Pet Handler or Designated Helper
Having a designated pet handler can be a total game-changer on your wedding day. Whether it’s a trusted friend, family member, or a professional handler, this person can help keep your furry friend calm, manage leashes, hand out treats, and even get your pet’s attention during portraits. With someone dedicated to your pet, you and your partner can stay relaxed and fully present, letting me capture those authentic, heartwarming moments without any stress or distractions.
3. Choose the Right Time for Pet Photos
Timing is key when including pets in your wedding photos. This is something we will need to factor into your wedding timeline. I always recommend scheduling pet portraits earlier in the day, before the festivities get too hectic, so your furry friend doesn’t get overwhelmed. If you and your partner are having a first look, this would be the perfect time to include your pets.
4. Keep Them Comfortable and Calm
You want to keep your pet comfortable and calm during wedding photos. I suggest packing a kit with their favorite toys or treats to help them feel at ease. Avoid areas that are too loud or chaotic, especially if your pet is sensitive to noise. Happy, relaxed pets make for the sweetest, most natural photos.
5. Coordinate Outfits and Accessories
Adding a touch of style to your pet can make your wedding photos even more memorable. Think bow ties, flower collars, bandanas, or custom leashes that tie into your wedding theme. Just remember—comfort comes first! Avoid anything too tight, heavy, or restrictive so your furry friend can move freely and stay happy throughout the day.
6. Go with the Flow (Because Pets Have Personalities)
Perfect is not what we’re striving for. Pets have their own personalities, and sometimes that means things won’t go exactly as planned—and that’s part of the fun! Some of the best photos come from candid, unscripted moments: a curious sniff, a playful jump, or a sweet nuzzle. Embrace the chaos because those are the memories that make your wedding photos truly special.
Looking for A Photographer Who Loves Pets as Much as You Do?
As a wedding photographer, my job is to capture you, your love, and everyone who surrounds you on your big day—including your furry friends! My motto? Bring them along. I’ll help you plan your timeline to include your pets and capture some truly stunning, memorable moments.
If you’re ready to plan your wedding day that includes your favorite pets, I’d love to help you find the perfect spot and create something that feels uniquely yours. Let’s chat!