How to Include Your Dog in Family Photos at Lost Lake

How to Include Your Dog in Family Photos at Lost Lake (or Anywhere in Fresno)

Dogs are part of the family, so it only makes sense to include them in your next photo session. I love capturing family photos with dogs because they bring out so much joy, play, and personality. During a recent fall session at Lost Lake, I photographed a sweet one-year-old, his parents, and their lovable dog—and the laughter that followed made every image feel alive.

If you’re dreaming of relaxed, heartfelt photos that include your pup, this guide will help you plan the perfect experience—whether at Lost Lake, your favorite Fresno trail, or even right in your backyard. For more pet-friendly outdoor ideas, check out BringFido’s list of dog-friendly parks near Fresno.

Why Family Photos with Dogs Are Worth It

Including your dog in your family session tells the whole story of your life right now. Dogs symbolize unconditional love and togetherness, and they often help everyone feel more relaxed during a session. When your dog bounds into the frame, tongues out and tails wagging, the mood instantly lightens.

At this particular Fresno family photo session at Lost Lake, the family’s dog became the spark that kept everyone laughing. Between playful runs and quick snuggles, those moments turned into some of the most genuine images of the day. That’s the beauty of family photos with dogs. They help your session feel less like posing and more like connection.

If you’ve ever worried that adding your pet might complicate things, don’t. With a little preparation and flexibility, your dog can easily become the heart of your photos.

Choosing a Dog-Friendly Location for Family Photos

Location sets the tone for your session. The best spots for family photos with dogs offer plenty of space to roam and minimal distractions. Think open trails, soft grass, or wide fields where your pup can move freely without overwhelming crowds or noise.

Lost Lake, just north of Fresno, is one of my favorite places for sessions with pets. Its natural scenery—golden meadows, rippling water, and oak trees—creates a peaceful, timeless backdrop. The warm fall light adds a beautiful glow, and the open space makes it ideal for dogs to explore safely.

A few other dog-friendly photo spots in Fresno include:

• Woodward Park – Expansive trails and shade trees make it easy to wander and play.
• Your backyard or local orchard – Sometimes the best photos happen in familiar, comfortable places.
• Millerton Lake – Wide lake views and rocky shorelines offer variety for adventurous families.

Wherever you go, always check leash policies and pack a few essentials: water, waste bags, a favorite toy, and a neutral-colored leash that blends naturally in photos.

Prep Your Pup Before the Session

A calm, happy dog makes for smoother photos. Try to give your pup some playtime or a walk before the session to release extra energy. A quick grooming or brush-up helps them look their best, and bringing their favorite treats or toy keeps them engaged.

Practicing basic commands like sit, stay, or come can make a big difference. During my Lost Lake family session, the parents used simple cues to guide their dog while still allowing plenty of candid moments. That mix of structure and spontaneity helped the session flow beautifully.

As a photographer, I don’t expect dogs to be perfectly still. In fact, their movement and curiosity often lead to the most heartwarming photos—like when this family’s pup wandered toward the toddler mid-giggle, and they both collapsed in laughter.

Outfit Tips for Family Photos with Dogs

When planning family photos with dogs, think of your pup as part of the family’s color palette. Coordinating your outfits helps the overall look feel cohesive and intentional.

Here are a few styling tips:

• Stick to earthy, neutral tones that complement both your dog’s fur and your surroundings.
• Avoid bold patterns or colors that might clash with natural textures.
• Choose a leash or collar in neutral shades like tan, brown, or soft gray for a timeless look.
• Keep outfits comfortable and movement-friendly, especially if you’ll be walking, sitting, or playing outdoors.

If you’re unsure what to wear, my What to Wear for Family Photos guide walks you through how to style your session from start to finish.

Keep the Session Relaxed and Real

The best family photos with dogs capture real interactions—not perfect poses. I always tell families to let go of expectations and lean into play. Toss a ball, walk along the trail, or let your pup chase leaves. The laughter and motion tell your story far better than any staged moment.

During our Lost Lake session, the little boy’s favorite part was running through the grass with his dog. The sunlight filtered through the trees, and the parents joined in. Those photos radiate joy and show exactly what this season of life feels like—beautifully imperfect and full of love.

A relaxed environment also helps children and dogs mirror each other’s energy. When one laughs or wags, the other usually follows. That harmony creates images that feel warm, emotional, and honest.

Bring Help and Plan for Flexibility

If possible, bring an extra person—like a friend or grandparent—to help with your dog between photos. They can hold the leash, offer water breaks, or help redirect attention when needed.

It’s also smart to keep sessions short and adaptable. Dogs (and toddlers!) have limited patience for posing. Schedule your session during cooler times of day, pack water, and don’t be afraid to pause when energy dips.

During this Lost Lake family session, we alternated between family groupings and short breaks for the dog to explore. That flexibility made everyone happier and kept the smiles genuine.

Remember: your photographer’s job is to capture connection, not control chaos. A good session flows naturally around your family’s rhythm.

Make It Meaningful

Bringing your dog to your session isn’t just about cute photos—it’s about preserving your family’s story. Your pet is part of your memories, from morning cuddles to evening walks. Including them in your portraits means years from now, you’ll remember their presence in your home and hearts.

In this family’s photos, the bond between their one-year-old and their dog said everything. They played side by side, explored the trails, and rested together in a golden patch of light. Those moments aren’t posed—they’re proof of love in motion.

That’s what family photos with dogs are really about: telling the story of who you are together, right now.

If you’d like to see how other families have captured their story, browse my Family Session Prep Guide for insight and inspiration.

Closing Thoughts

Including your dog in your family photos is one of the most rewarding choices you can make. It keeps your images honest, heartfelt, and alive with personality. From playful moments to quiet snuggles, your dog brings out emotions no camera can force.

Thank you to the wonderful Thais for letting me document such a sweet day at Lost Lake. It was pure joy to witness your love in action.

If you’re ready to plan your own family photos with (or without) dogs, I’d love to help you capture those genuine moments in a beautiful, natural way. Reach out to book your session and start planning your story. And while you’re here, explore more on the blog for session ideas and family photo inspiration.