Why Pets Belong in Family Photos

For most families, pets aren’t “just animals.” They’re confidants, comedians, comforters, and constant companions. They’re there for the big milestones and the quiet everyday moments. That’s exactly why pets belong in family photos.

Family photos are about connection, love, and real life. And for so many of us, real life includes paws, whiskers, wagging tails, and the occasional slobbery kiss.

Pets Are Part of Your Story

Years from now, when you look back at your family photos, you won’t just remember what everyone wore or how tall the kids were that year. You’ll remember who curled up at your feet, who insisted on sitting on your lap, and who never missed a family gathering.

Including pets in family portraits captures your life as it truly is right now. These photos become time capsules of your home, your routines, and the love you share with your animals.

Kids + Pets = Pure Magic

Some of the most genuine expressions happen when kids are with their pets. There’s a natural ease and joy that shows up in those moments. The laughter, the hugs, the quiet snuggles. Pets help kids relax and be themselves, which always makes for better photos.

When your dog is busy sniffing around or your cat decides to steal the spotlight, everyone relaxes. Smiles become natural. That’s when the best photos happen. But the beauty of including pets isn’t perfection. It’s personality. A little chaos often leads to the most meaningful images. The ones that make you laugh. The ones that feel like home.

One Session, Many Photo Options

A pet-friendly family session doesn’t mean you have to choose just one type of photo. During your session, we can capture a variety of images, including:

• Group photos with pets and people together
• Just the people family portraits
• Individual pet portraits
• Couples photos
• Kids only photos
• Individual portraits of each family member
• Business head shots

This flexible approach allows you to get everything you need in one relaxed session, without feeling rushed. We’ll move at a comfortable pace and create a mix of images that truly reflect your family, your pets, and your season of life.

Your Session, Your Way

At A Style Photography, pet-friendly sessions are always welcome. You can choose what works best for your family:

• A photo session in my photo studio in Troy, Missouri
• Lifestyle photos at your home or backyard
• On-location sessions around St. Charles, Wentzville, Chesterfield, St. Peters, and the Greater St. Louis area

I also have a scenic studio location with a private lake and wildflower fields, making it easy to include both studio and outdoor portraits in one session.

Photos You’ll Treasure Forever

Pets don’t stay with us long enough. Photos become even more meaningful as the years go by. Including them in your family portraits ensures their place in your family story is never forgotten. If your pet is part of your family, they belong in your photos.

📸 Let’s capture your whole family. Paws included.
Whether you prefer studio portraits, outdoor lifestyle photos, or a mix of both, I’d love to create something special for you.

Reach out anytime to plan a pet-friendly family photo session in Troy, Missouri or the Greater St. Louis area.