Family Photos with Your Dog
Photos with Your Dog
One of my favorite parts of photographing families in Naples, Florida, is the variety of landscapes. This coastal city offers pristine beaches just a short drive away. They are perfect for classic beach portraits. Including a dog can be trickier because many Naples beaches restrict dogs. However, the city has several beautiful parks where pets can join the fun.
The Stowell family faced this challenge. They wanted traditional beach photos but also wanted their dog in the session. I suggested starting at Baker Park and then moving to the coastline. This approach allowed us to capture both settings in one seamless session.
Baker Park: A Lush, Dog-Friendly Setting
Baker Park is a hidden gem in Naples. Its green trails wind through a peaceful oasis, creating natural backdrops for family portraits. The calm atmosphere and dog-friendly policy make it perfect for families who want to include pets.
Heading to the Beach
After exploring Baker Park, we headed to the coastline. The Stowells enjoyed the soft sand and sparkling water as a backdrop for timeless beach portraits. Combining the park and the beach captured both natural beauty and the family’s special bond.
Naples Beach: A Coastal Paradise
Naples Beach is known for its fine white sand beaches and calm Gulf Coast waters. Having your family session at the beach offers a chance to capture the essence of coastal living and create timeless memories. With plenty of beach entrances to choose from you can normally find one that is relatively empty for a more intimate family session setting.
A Friendly Reminder: Tips for a Fun Session with Your Dog
Most public beaches in Naples don’t allow dogs. But don’t worry—you can still get amazing family photos with your furry friend. Here are some simple tips to make your session smooth and fun.
Start at a Dog-Friendly Spot
Begin your session at a dog-friendly park about 70–85 minutes before sunset. Parks further inland have softer sunlight and shady spots. This light creates beautiful photos without making your dog or family too hot.
Bring Dog Essentials
Pack treats to keep your dog happy. Bring a leash, poop bags, and plenty of water. A small towel helps if your pup gets wet or sandy. Planning ahead makes the session stress-free.
Beach Parking Tips
If you plan to go to the beach, make sure you have a valid beach pass. If you don’t, tell your photographer before the session. They can help you find entrances with metered parking.
Pet Safety at the Beach
Since most beaches don’t allow dogs, bring a friend or family member to watch your dog at the park. Or, keep your dog safely in the car with water and air conditioning while you take beach photos.
Following these tips keeps your family and pet safe and happy. You’ll capture beautiful memories that last a lifetime!
If you’re interested in booking a family photo session near Naples, Florida, let’s talk! If you’re local to the area, or if you plan on traveling to visit family or escape to the beach, contact us to schedule a Naples family photo session. I’m always happy to connect with new clients from around the country.
Are you ready to book a relaxed and casual family photo session? Or, do you have more questions about how to get started? Get in touch! We’re always happy to guide you in making the best decision for you and your family.
