Newborn Photography with Dogs in Charlotte, NC
Because your first baby deserves to be in the photo, too.
Your pup is part of the family—the one who’s been there through every milestone and is now sniffing the toes of your brand-new addition with curiosity and love. These are the moments that make your heart melt, and yes—you can have newborn photos that include your dog.
I specialize in newborn photography with dogs in Charlotte, NC, creating cozy, relaxed sessions that capture the entire family. Whether your fur baby is energetic, shy, or camera-ready, I’ll help everyone feel at ease and photograph the sweet connection between your pup and your newest little love.
Why Include Your Dog in Your Newborn Session?
Capture the full story of your growing family
Let’s be real—your dog was your first baby. They’ve been there through pregnancy naps, nursery setup, and late-night belly snuggles. Including them in your newborn photos isn’t just adorable, it’s meaningful.
Honor your pet’s role as protector, sibling, and snuggle buddy
Remember this season—the blur of baby giggles and wagging tails
Charlotte Newborn Session with Your Dog
What to Expect
- Prep guidance for your pup (yes, you’ll get tips in advance!)
- Plenty of time + patience built into your session
- Safe posing & natural interaction between baby and dog
- Baby-led flow so we capture the calmest, happiest moments
Safety First, Always
A quick walk or some backyard zoomies beforehand can help your dog feel calmer during the shoot. Bring along a leash, treats, and a favorite toy—those little comforts go a long way in helping your pup feel relaxed and at ease in front of the camera.
How should we prepare our dog for the session?
FAQ About Including Your Dog in Your Newborn Session
What if my dog doesn’t sit still or cooperate?
Totally normal—and totally okay. I’ve worked with every kind of dog energy: shy, wild, goofy, clingy. We’ll work at their pace, adapt as we go, and most importantly, have fun with it. Some of the best photos come from the chaos!
Is it safe to have our dog around the baby during the session?
Yes! Safety is always my top priority. I’ll never ask for a pose that feels uncomfortable or risky. If your dog is a little too excited or unsure, we’ll adjust. We can always get beautiful photos of you holding baby with your pup nearby. Think calm, connected, and totally baby-safe.
Can we include our dog in our newborn photos?
Absolutely! Dogs are part of the family, and I love capturing that heart-melting connection between your pup and your new baby. Whether we’re at home or in the studio, we’ll plan ahead to make it smooth and safe for everyone.
Can you photograph our dog with the baby alone?
If your dog is calm and comfortable, yes! I’ve done many peaceful, safe baby-and-dog portraits. But if there’s even a hint of stress, we’ll keep baby in your arms and still get those cozy, snuggly family shots that include everyone.
Book Your Newborn + Dog Session
book csp
You’ll never regret including your dog in this chapter. Because when your baby grows up and sees these photos? They’ll see how loved they’ve been—right from the start.
fur and all
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Claire Shiflett is a family photographer serving the Carolinas + beyond.