Family Photos with Pets

Because your pets aren’t just part of the picture — they’re part of the family.

These photos capture the connection you share with your pet—whether it’s playful, quiet, silly, or simply comfortable. They reflect the relationship the two of you share every day.

You don’t have to be comfortable in front of the camera to love these photos. Many of my clients tell me they hate having their picture taken, but they never regret having portraits with the pets who mean so much to them.

Family photos with your pets are included in every Signature Session, along with individual portraits and action photos. You don’t have to choose between them. See examples in my Dogs in Action gallery, or learn more about my Signature Session.

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Some of my favorite photos of families and pets

Woman sitting in the grass looking at her German Shepherd.

Family photo with two adults, two kids, and two dogs outside in the fall in Loudoun County.

Greyhound kissing her happy owner outside in Loudoun County, VA.

Couple lying outside in the grass with their Belgian Malinois.

Woman hugging dog while sitting on steps outside in Loudoun County.

Man sitting outside on truck bed holding mixed breed puppy.

Man hugging his dog while leaning against a truck outdoors

Woman sitting outside in antique truck with Schnauzer.

Woman sitting outside on stone steps with her dog in Loudoun County, VA.

Australian Shepherd chasing a ball that her owner just threw in Northern VA.

Man holding his Belgian Malinois and hugging her in a field in Loudoun County.

Dog kissing owner on the face outdoors in Loudoun County, VA.

Family having fun during their outdoor portrait session with their dog in Northern Virginia.

Man seated outside with his Belgian Malinois in Northern Virginia.

Boy sitting outside with black dog and looking at the dog laughing at Morven Park, Leesburg, VA.

Black dog and owner playing in the snow in Northern Virginia.

Young girl sitting outside with her face next to her Chocolate Lab in Northern Virginia.

Man holding gorgeous gray cat in his arms outdoors in Loudoun County, VA.

Dog resting his paw on his owner's hand and looking up at her lovingly outside in Northern Virginia.

Woman hugging her older dog outside in Northern Virginia

Not sure about being in the photos?

You’re not alone. One of the most common things I hear is, “I hate having my picture taken.” That’s okay. My job isn’t to make you pose for the camera. It’s to help you relax, enjoy spending time with your pet, and guide you into natural poses that are both flattering and genuine.

Your pet doesn’t care whether you’re wearing makeup, lost ten pounds, or had a good hair day. They simply know you’re their person. Years from now, you’ll be glad you have photos that capture the relationship you shared.

Not sure what to wear? I’ve got you covered there too. You’ll receive my clothing guide before your session, and we’ll go over it together during your consultation.

Want to learn more about what to expect? Visit my Signature Session page.

Still hesitant about being in the photos? Read one family’s story.

“Ellen photographed Snickers and me and I absolutely love looking at that picture. He is my shadow and I adore him. The picture of the two of us depicts that feeling. I will treasure these photographs for my lifetime. It is so heart warming to be able to see love hanging on my wall.” Diane — Snickers’ mom

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The years with our pets go by faster than any of us would like. Let‘s create photos you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Start with a free, no-pressure consultation. We’ll talk about your pet, your relationship, and the photographs you’d love to see in your home.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Based in Hamilton, Virginia. Serving Loudoun County, Northern Virginia, and the DC Metro area.