Including your dog in your newborn session is not only possible — it’s encouraged!


When you're welcoming a new baby into your home, there's a good chance you're also already a proud parent to a fur baby. If you're wondering whether your dog (or cat!) can be part of your in-home newborn session — the answer is absolutely, yes!


As a newborn photographer who specializes in lifestyle sessions in the comfort of your home, I truly believe pets are part of the family, and they deserve a spot in these early memories, too. In fact, some of my favorite images from newborn sessions include a loyal pup keeping watch or snuggling close to their new baby sibling.

A goldendoodle dog lounges on a dark couch while a couple relaxes with their baby in the background.
A couple sitting on brick fireplace with their baby while their fluffy goldendoodle dog watches from below.
Couple sitting on couch with newborn baby and goldendoodle dog on hardwood floor in bright living room.
A couple relaxes on a couch with their goldendoodle dog while spending time together at home during Noblesville newborn photoshoot.
A couple sits on brick fireplace in their Noblesville home with their baby and a goldendoodle dog laying at their feet on hardwood floors.
A small brown goldendoodle puppy plays licks baby's feet during Noblesville newborn picture session.

Why Include Your Pet in Newborn Photos?


1. Pets Are Family, Too


Your dog has likely been by your side through all the big milestones — moving into your home, pregnancy, and now parenthood. Including them in your session adds a layer of realness and warmth to your photos. These images become even more meaningful when your child grows up and sees just how loved they were from day one — by the whole family.


2. It Tells the Whole Story


My goal with every in-home session is to document your real life, your real love, and your real family — chaos, cuddles, and all. Including your pet captures your home as it truly is in this beautiful season. It’s part of your family’s story, and that’s what I strive to preserve as your Noblesville newborn photographer.


3. It Adds Connection (and Cuteness!)


There’s something incredibly sweet about a gentle nose sniffing tiny toes or a curious dog peeking over the edge of the crib. Whether your pup is protective, playful, or just plain curious, those interactions often make for some of the most tender and candid moments.

A couple sits together by crib with a baby and their goldendoodle dog in a bright nursery room in Noblesville, Indiana.
Baby in green ribbed sweater yawning widely while being held against blue background.
A baby wearing green clothing lies peacefully on mother's lap during an in-home photo session in Noblesville, Indiana.
A newborn baby in a green knit sweater is cradled gently in someone's hands during an in-home photo session in Noblesville, Indiana.
Mother in a white sweater and jeans sitting in a gray armchair holding her small baby in a heartwarming moment.
A baby in a green onesie lies in a crib with a plush teddy bear on a light gray sheet.
Close-up series showing a sleeping baby in olive green onesie resting against blue bedding.
Close-up view of tiny baby feet wrapped in cozy green knit clothing on white carpet background.
A baby wearing a green outfit lies on a gray carpet while hands reach to tickle them.
A sleeping baby in a green onesie rests peacefully inside a white crib with a teddy bear nearby.
A tender sequence of photos showing intimate moments between parents and a newborn baby on a couch.
A person in a blue shirt sits in a cushioned chair tenderly holding a sleeping newborn baby wrapped in blankets.

Worried About How It Will Go?


Don’t be! I’ve photographed plenty of pets over the years — wiggly, shy, or wildly enthusiastic — and I always take a relaxed, patient approach. There’s no pressure for your dog to sit still and pose. We’ll go with the flow, just like we do with babies. A few quiet snuggles on the bed or a quick photo of everyone together on the couch is often all it takes.


If it helps, you can have a family member on hand to take your pup for a walk or give them a break during part of the session. We’ll plan ahead to make sure your pet is included in a way that feels easy and natural.

A person lies comfortably on a white bed with mustard yellow pillows, wearing denim and using a mobile device.
A couple sits together on a cozy couch sharing intimate moments in a casual home setting.
Mirror reflection in a unique circular frame with hot air balloon decoration pattern against white wall.
Two people lounging on white bed with their Cavapoo dog while looking at a mobile phone together.
A couple relaxes on a white bed with their goldendoodle puppy in a cozy bedroom setting.
A goldendoodle dog curiously meets a newborn baby while parents rest together on a couch.

Let’s Celebrate Your Whole Family


I’m here to document the love in your home — messy, beautiful, joyful, and real. And if that love includes four paws and a wagging tail, they are more than welcome. So go ahead and bring the dog. I promise, you won’t regret it.


Looking for a newborn photographer who welcomes pets and captures the real moments? Let’s capture your family’s story together.

Book your newborn session