Graduation season is emotional. It’s exciting, overwhelming, and full of “how did we get here so fast?” moments. For a lot of seniors, one of the most meaningful constants through all of it has been their pet — especially their dog.

So it makes total sense that one of the most common questions I get as a Baton Rouge senior photographer is:

“Can I bring my dog to my senior pictures?”

Short answer: yes — and I love it.
Long answer: there are a few things you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure your senior photos with your dog are fun, stress-free, and look amazing.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about bringing your dog (or other pet) to your senior photo shoot, with tips specific to LSU senior portraits and Baton Rouge locations.

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Can You Bring Your Dog to Senior Pictures?

Yes — dogs are absolutely welcome at senior photo sessions.

Pets add personality, meaning, and a layer of storytelling that makes your photos feel more you. Whether your dog has been with you since middle school, helped you survive finals week, or is just your emotional support bestie, they deserve a cameo in this chapter of your life.

I’ve photographed lots of senior sessions with dogs, and even the occasional cat (yes, really — and yes, we made it work).

That said, pets do require a little extra planning — which is exactly why this guide exists

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Planning Senior Pictures With Your Dog: What to Know Ahead of Time

1. Choose a Dog-Friendly Photo Location

Not all senior photo locations allow pets, so this is something we plan intentionally.

In the Baton Rouge area, we typically look for:

• Outdoor spaces
• Low-traffic areas
• Locations with room to move (and sniff)

For LSU senior portraits, dogs are usually best included:

• At the start of the session
• In specific campus-adjacent or green spaces
• Away from heavy crowds and traffic

We’ll always choose a location that keeps your dog comfortable and your photos stress-free.

2. Bring a Helper (This Is Huge)

If you’re bringing your dog to senior pictures, bring a friend, parent, or roommate whose main job is helping with the dog.

Why?

• Someone needs to hold the leash between shots
• Dogs usually don’t need to be in every photo
• It allows you to switch outfits or locations easily
• Your dog can take breaks without cutting into your session time

This one thing alone makes the experience smoother for everyone.

3. Leashes, Collars, and Harnesses

Yes, I can edit out leashes — but choosing the right one saves time and keeps photos clean.

Best options for senior photos with dogs:

• Simple leather or nylon leashes
• Neutral colors (black, brown, tan)
• Flat collars instead of bulky harnesses
• LSU Colors if you want your furry family member to be festive

If your dog needs a harness for safety, no problem — just aim for something minimal.

Avoid:

• Neon colors
• Heavy metal tags that distract or jingle

4. Exercise Your Dog Before the Session

A tired dog is a happy dog.

Before your senior photo shoot:

• Take your dog on a walk
• Let them run or play a bit
• Burn off excess energy

This helps them:

• Sit still longer
• Focus on you
• Be less overwhelmed by a new environment

5. Treats, Toys, and Rewards Are Encourage

Bring:

• High-value treats
• A favorite toy or ball
• Something that only comes out for special occasions

I’ll help direct attention and timing, but having familiar rewards makes a huge difference.

I’m Nervous My Dog Won’t Behave

Totally normal — and honestly, unnecessary to worry about.

Here’s the secret:
Perfect behavior isn’t the goal.

Some of the best senior photos with dogs come from:

• Unexpected moments
• Laughter when things go off-script
• Movement instead of stiff posing

I’ll guide the session in a way that allows space for real moments — not perfection.

Can You Bring Other Pets to Senior Pictures?

Yes — with a little extra planning.

I’ve photographed:

• Cats
• Small pets
• Senior sessions with more than one dog

If you’re thinking about bringing a non-dog pet, just let me know ahead of time so we can choose the right location and timeline.

LSU Senior Pictures With Dogs: What to Know

If you’re planning LSU senior portraits with your dog, timing and location matter.

We typically:

• Start with dog photos first
• Transition into solo senior portraits afterward

This keeps your dog comfortable and lets you fully enjoy the rest of your session.

Final Thoughts: Senior Pictures Should Feel Like You

Senior portraits are about closing one chapter and stepping into the next — and for a lot of people, their dog has been there for all of it.

If your pet is part of your everyday life, they belong in your photos.

With the right planning, senior pictures with dogs can be fun, meaningful, and some of the most loved images in your gallery.

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Looking for a Baton Rouge Senior Photographer Who Loves Pets?

I’m a Baton Rouge senior photographer specializing in high school and LSU senior portraits, and I absolutely welcome pets at sessions.

If you’re thinking about bringing your dog (or cat!) to your senior photos and want help planning a session that feels relaxed and personal, I’d love to chat.

👉 Reach out through my contact page or slide into my inbox — we’ll make a plan that works for you and your four-legged best friend.