Dogs with Children

Capture the joyful bond between your kids and their dogs! My approach keeps things fun and relaxed, ensuring natural smiles and memories reflecting the connection between children and their furry companions.

A bit of controlled chaos is a good thing when it comes to photographing dogs and children. Murtie, the English bulldog mix, started the commotion by burying his face in the blue throw. I’m not sure if the faux fur felt soft or if he was fluffing it up so he could lie on it. Either way, I wasn’t planning on having him upside down, but I like it.

Book ahead for puppy’s first few days at home.

It’s an exciting day when a puppy joins his new family. I was lucky enough to document Desmond on his second day home. The family’s girls were at a perfect age for a new pup because they were old enough to remember Desmond’s homecoming and help with his training. It was a privilege to watch them bond with the sweet pup. My style is to be a “fly on the wall” to capture natural moments.

As a child, I was fascinated with Dutch doors. They were straight out of picture books, and I had never seen one in my suburban hometown. The first time I saw a Dutch door in real life was on a horse barn near Buena Vista. I still have the crayon drawing I made of that barn!

The Dutch door in this photo is on a 1950s-era horse barn. These kids got to play in it during their photoshoot with their French bulldog, Duke. I hope they had as much fun as I did the first time I got to explore a horse barn. We can rent this space for your photoshoot, too!

Every kid should have a professional photo of themselves with their childhood dog. I only have blurry snapshots of my childhood pets, but it would be nice to have memories of myself playing with my beagles.

Posed or Candid? You can have both!

I’ll always aim to get you a “holiday card” photo, but I’ll also try some candid shots.

Keeping children happy, moving, and smiling during photoshoots

To set us up for success with these toddlers, I chose a location with an easily accessible, kid-friendly nature trail. There was a flat rock that felt safe to sit on while still capturing mountain scenery.

I use action shots to get real smiles. This little girl enjoyed running towards me. It usually yields fun results if kids feel like they’re just playing.

Capturing the whole family

McCoy, the yellow lab, brought the whole extended family together for a photoshoot. What began as a birthday gift from sister to sister soon grew, as she decided to include her sisters, mother, and nieces. Since McCoy is getting older and can’t walk far, we set up a blanket near a trailhead and took the photos there so it would be easy for everyone.

I won’t forget to get Mom and Dad in the frame, too.

I can get your whole family in one shot, as well as candids!

Here are reviews from happy parents whose children I’ve photographed:

“100% recommend working with Karen – it exceeded all expectations, and it was such a delight to work with her from the very first step. Karen took marvelous pictures of not only our 100 lb dog, but also our two toddlers – not an easy feat, and the pictures are incredible. Each step of the process was thoughtful, communicative, and clear. I can’t recommend Karen enough, and am so thankful to her for capturing such sweet memories for my family.”

Erin

“Karen was able to capture such genuine smiles from my son and such amazing pictures of my squirmy dogs! That (I know from experience), is no easy task! I will treasure these pictures and these memories always!”

Daphne

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Give your children a professional photoshoot with their childhood dog. Dog and child photos are a gift they will cherish for years! Head over to my contact page so we can start the process.

About Karen Hoglund Photography