pet-friendly mini sessions in seattle
I get asked this question all the time - "can we bring our dog?" - and the answer is always a big, enthusiastic YES. So let's talk about pet-friendly fall minis at Golden Gardens, because these sessions might be some of the most fun I get to shoot all year.
Your pets are part of your family. I fully believe that, and I don't think a family photo session feels complete without the four-legged (or sometimes feathered, I don't judge) member of your crew in the mix. So when fall rolls around and we head to Golden Gardens, your pup is more than welcome to come along for the whole thing.
Here's why these sessions are so much fun.
Golden Gardens is basically a dog's dream location. Sandy beach, driftwood to sniff and climb on, open space to run, water to splash in - your dog is going to have the time of their life out there. And a happy, comfortable pet makes for way better family photos!
That fall light makes everyone look good - pets included. The same warm, golden sunset glow that makes your family photos look amazing works its magic on your pets too. Whether it's a golden retriever whose coat looks like it's actually made of gold in that light, or a scruffy little rescue mutt catching the last bit of sun, that light is flattering across the board.
We don't need your pet to "perform." I know posed pet photos can feel like a lot of pressure - will they sit still, will they look at the camera, will they randomly decide to lie down at the worst possible moment. I'm not chasing perfectly posed shots here. I want the real stuff: your dog leaning into your kid's hug, chasing a stick along the shoreline, flopping down in the sand mid-session because they're having the best day ever. Those real moments end up being everyone's favorites anyway.
There's plenty of room for everyone. Between the beach, the driftwood, and the open grassy areas, Golden Gardens gives us so much space to work with. Kids can run one direction, the dog can explore another, and I can capture it all without anyone feeling crammed into one tiny spot. It makes the whole session feel more like a fun outing than a formal photoshoot.
It's a memory, not just a photo. Pets don't stick around forever, and I think that's exactly why capturing them as part of your family photos matters so much. Years down the road, those images of your pup running along the beach with your kids, tail wagging, tongue out, having the best day - those are going to mean everything.
A few quick tips if you're bringing your pet along:
Bring their favorite treats - they're great for getting attention on the camera (and for good behavior bribes, no shame)
A leash is totally fine to use during most of the session, but consider the color scheme of your outfits. Aiming for the leash and color to blend in helps so it’s not a distraction in the photos.
If your family photos have never felt quite complete without your pet in them, let's fix that this fall. Golden Gardens has plenty of room for the whole crew.
love your photographer,
Anna
