Wedding Photos With Your Dog: Tips From a Los Angeles Wedding Photographer
Capturing the magic of your wedding day isn’t just about the glitz, glam, or perfect golden hour—it’s about anchoring the day in everything you love, including your dog! As a Los Angeles and Southern California wedding photographer, I believe if your dog is part of your family, they belong in the photos too.
Whether you live in Danville but love those palm-trees-meets-sunshine vibes of SoCal — or you’re planning a day in Malibu, Pasadena, or Hollywood — these tips can help your pup shine (without turning the day into chaos).
1. Pick a Trusted “Dog Handler” for the Day
Having someone designated just to care for your pup — ideally someone your dog already knows and trusts — is key. Whether a friend, family member, or trusted pet-sitter, this person can:
Keep the leash, treats, water, bags handy
Watch after your pup during ceremony, cocktail hour and reception
Bring your dog in and out of shots so you don’t have to worry about logistics
This way your pup can be part of the fun without you or your partner stressing. Not sure you have someone that can handle your dog on your wedding day? Many people don’t realize there are wedding services to handle your dog! Check out The Wedding Leash!
2. Plan Dog Photos Early — Build It Into Your Wedding Timeline
If you want photos with your dog, schedule them early in the day. Great windows:
Right after you get ready, before guests arrive
Just after the ceremony / right after you’re officially married
Before the reception starts, or during a “golden hour + dog portraits” session
That way your pup gets their moment — and can then chill out while you enjoy the rest of the night.
3. Bring Treats, Toys & Comfortable Gear
Dogs respond best when they feel relaxed, motivated, and safe. Pro tips:
Bring their favorite treats or a high-value snack
Bring water and a bowl — especially in SoCal heat
Use a comfortable leash and a collar (or harness), ideally matching your wedding colors
Plan for breaks: give your pup time to rest, hydrate, & recharge before or after photos
A few treats + comfort = much better chances at sweet, natural photos. Walters & Walters+2Furever Us+2
4. Choose Dog-Friendly Locations (and Know the Rules)
Many venues (especially in Los Angeles / SoCal) have strict rules about animals. Before picking a location, double-check:
Is the venue pet-friendly (indoors or outdoors)?
Is there a safe, quiet space for the pup to rest if they get overwhelmed?
If not, are there nearby dog-friendly parks / beaches / neighborhoods where we can start or end the shoot?
If the venue doesn’t allow pets, consider a quick “portrait with pup” session elsewhere — like your home, a nearby park, or a quiet street — before moving to the main venue for the rest of the day.
Some dog friendly venues in Southern California include :
The Grass Room
The Dana at Mission Bay
The York Manor
The BRICK
Malibu Solstice Estate
5. Include Your Dog in the Most Meaningful Portraits
Some of my favorite dog-in-wedding photos to shoot:
Candid “getting ready” moments — pup on bed, leash in hand, maybe a sweet nuzzle
Couple portraits with dog — hanging out, walking, snuggling
Ceremony or ring-bearer moments (if your dog is calm and it makes sense)
Bride & groom portraits with pup (alone or with wedding party)
A “just married + dog” exit, or golden-hour stroll with your pup
These photos become part of your family story — not just the wedding story. Lauren Dobish Photography+2Jenna Kathleen Photographer+2
6. Keep Your Dog’s Comfort and Personality First
Every dog is different — some love attention, some prefer to chill. That means:
If your pup gets nervous with crowds, maybe let them hang out during ceremony and bring them in for a short portrait session only
Respect their energy level: take breaks, let them rest between photos, avoid over-scheduling
Don’t pressure them to sit or stare at camera — candid, natural moments often turn out the sweetest
Relax, breathe, and let the love show — your pup will appreciate the vibes. Walters & Walters+1
7. Have a Backup Plan — Just in Case
Sometimes, having your dog at the wedding doesn’t work out: maybe the weather, venue restrictions, or stress is too much for them. That’s okay — you can still include them:
Do a “pre-wedding” or “engagement-style” photoshoot with your pup in a dog-friendly location
Use their picture in your wedding invites or thank you cards
Design custom elements — cake toppers, signage, favors — that represent your pup
That way, even if they don’t physically attend, they’re still honored and part of your day.
Your dog isn’t just a pet — they’re part of your crew. If having them in your wedding photos feels right, do it. With a little planning, some treats, and a calm setup, we’ll get solid, natural shots without stressing anyone out.
And honestly, Los Angeles and Southern California make this easy. Sunshine, open spaces, beaches, parks, city streets — whatever your style is, there’s a spot where your dog fits right in. It’s laid-back, it’s real, and it makes your photos feel like you.
If you want help figuring out timing, locations, or the easiest way to work your dog into the day, I’ve got you. We’ll make it simple and actually fun — for all three of you. Let’s start a conversation.
