If there is one thing you should know about me, it’s that I am a massive dog lover. There is nothing that makes me smile faster during a session than seeing a wagging tail show up at an engagement session or wedding.

As Columbus wedding photographers, we’ve seen it all, from flower-crowned Golden Retrievers to tuxedo-clad huskies. We know that your pup isn’t just a pet – they are family. That’s why we specialize in wedding photography with dogs, ensuring that your four-legged bestie is captured just as intentionally as the rest of your wedding party.

Over the years, I’ve had the joy of working 40+ couples and their furry family members. I’ve learned that while it takes a little extra planning & patience, having your dog as part of your wedding journey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’ve been searching for a photographer who is just as obsessed with your pup as you are, you’re in the right place.

The Warm-Up: Dogs at Engagement Sessions

An engagement session is the perfect “trial run” for wedding photography with dogs. It’s low-pressure, outdoors, and allows them to get used to me & the camera. It’s also a great alternative to having your dog at the wedding, but you want to include photos of them on your big day. Here are my top tips for a stress-free session:

• Burn off the energy: If you have a high-energy pup, try to take them for a long walk or a game of fetch about an hour before we meet. A tired dog is a photogenic dog!
• The “Secret Weapon”: Bring their favorite squeaky toy or small training treats. I’m not above making embarrassing noises or holding a treat over my camera to get that perfect “ears up” look.
• Bring a Helper: I always recommend bringing a friend or family member who can hold the leash when we want to transition into some “human-only” portraits. It keeps the dog calm and lets you focus on each other.

The Big Day: Planning Your Dog-Friendly Wedding

Whether they are the “Ring Bearer” or just the Guest of Honor, having your dog at your wedding adds a layer of joy that is hard to describe, but often ends up being our couples’ favorite photos of the day. As experienced Columbus wedding photographers, here are a few ways we can weave them into your timeline:

• The Furry First Look: If you’re worried about them being overwhelmed by a crowd, a private “first look” with just you and your dog is a beautiful, quiet way to include them in your gallery.
• Ceremony & Cocktail Hour: Many of our couples have their dogs walk down the aisle or join the party for cocktail hour. It’s an instant ice-breaker for your guests & their guaranteed to get plenty of pets!
• Logistics are Everything: To keep the day moving smoothly, consider hiring a professional dog handler or asking a trusted friend who isn’t in the wedding party to be the “Designated Dog Person.” They can handle the walks and water, and take the pup home once the loud music and dancing start. If you’re in Ohio, I highly recommend Furever Events.

Why It’s Worth It

At the end of the day, your wedding is a celebration of your life together—and for most of us, our dogs are a huge part of that life. These are the photos you will look back on in twenty years and cherish the most.

Meet Brutus: My CSO (Chief Snuggle Officer)

I don’t just talk the talk, I walk the walk (literally). My passion for wedding photography with dogs comes from my own best friend, Brutus.

Brutus is a 7-year-old Bernese Mountain Dog and a proud rescue. He officially holds the title of “Chief Snuggle Officer” for the business & takes his job VERY seriously. He is such a good boy and a constant reminder of the special bond we know exists between humans and their dogs. Because he’s a rescue, I have a very special place in my heart for fellow rescue families.

Giving Back to Our Rescue Community

We believe every dog deserves a loving “forever home.” To support the organizations that make these families possible, we have a special gift for our clients: If a rescued animal is part of your session, we will donate 10% of our profit from your session to the animal hospital, rescue organization, or shelter of your choice. It’s our way of saying thank you for giving a pup a second chance, and it makes your wedding memories even more meaningful. Learn more in our giving back page!

Planning a wedding in Ohio? As Columbus wedding photographers and fellow dog enthusiasts, we’d love to document your pack. Click here to get in touch!