Tips for photographing newborns and pets

It’s national siblings day!  As a Boston newborn photographer, there is no better way to celebrate than to feature newborns.. with their furry siblings. Below are some “sibling photos” along with tips on how to photograph newborns and dogs/pets together.

Make sure you are comfortable with pets

A lot of families are excited to hear that I do photograph pets during newborn sessions. I have two little dogs and I’m very comfortable and love playing with pets.  But, if you’re afraid of dogs, don’t take the risk!  Fur babies can sense fear; this can make for a tense and risky session.

Newborn safety is paramount

This goes without saying: always make sure the baby is safe and there is no risk of him/her getting injured.  If the family pet has not adjusted well to the baby or is too hyper, you can create a composite image (using two images to create.. see the last tip).

Know the pet’s temperament and training level

Many families want photos of all their babies (furry and human) together.  Before doing so, assess how safe it is. Is the dog well trained? How have they reacted to the baby’s birth? Are they young and active or older and relaxed? How do the parents feel about the dog’s temperament? Use the answers to help gauge how you’re going to approach your session.

Get extra hands to help you out

I am not able to create a newborn and pet photo by myself. I get parents and any visiting relatives to help me out. Usually, one parent has their hand on/next to the baby so they don’t roll away; the other parent controls the pup by using treats or commands.

Let photoshop be your friend

This is the main reason why I love the pet and baby in basket set-up seen in most of the photos below: it’s easy to composite two photos. Start by capturing the family pet next to an empty baby basket. When the pet is out of the room, I photograph the baby in the basket (from the same angle that I photographed the dog). I then merge the two photos together and viola, sibling photos!

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Boston newborn & family photographer, Isabel Sweet

I am a baby and newborn photographer in the Boston area. I am happy to provide boutique photography services to the South End, Back Bay, Fenway, Brookline, Cambridge, South Boston, Belmont, Arlington, Lexington, Needham, Beacon Hill, Newton, and beyond! All sessions take place in the comfort of your own home or favorite location. These sessions took place in Boston, Ma.