Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

Your Dog Is Always Welcome: How We Capture the Whole Family

Dog-Friendly Cocoa Beach Photographer

Okay, can we talk about how much better photos get when there's a dog in them?

There's just something magical that happens when a couple brings their pup to a golden hour beach session. The light is warm, everyone's relaxed, and instead of just a pretty photo shoot you end up with a gallery that actually feels like you. 

Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

We Do Both: Posed and Playful

A question I often get during session planning is: "Is it okay if we bring our dog?"

And every single time, my answer is absolutely yes. Please do!

Here's something many people don't know about me... before I started my photography business, I was a dog trainer. So when your dog decides to forget all previously taught commands, or just completely checks out and starts sniffing something in the distance, I'm not stressed. I've been there. I know how to redirect, how to work with their energy, and honestly, how to turn those moments into some of the best frames of the whole session.

Here's how I like to structure things:

First, we get the posed shots. While everyone's still fresh, we'll do the more intentional stuff: sitting together in the sand, walking along the water,
and a photo of just your pup. These are the ones you'll want to print big and hang on your wall.

Then, we just have fun. We break out the ball. We let the dog run. Someone usually ends up soaking wet (sorry in advance). And the photos from this part of the session? They're almost always the ones people end up obsessing over — because they're real. They're you. They're the chaos and the joy and the love that you can't really pose for.

Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

Your Dog Is in Good Hands, Promise

My training background means I'm not just someone who tolerates dogs at sessions. I genuinely love working with them, and I know how to keep even the most anxious or excitable pup feeling comfortable. A relaxed dog makes for happy, natural photos, and that's always the goal.

Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

A Few Tips Before Your Session

• Bring the good treats. Not the everyday ones — the ones they go absolutely crazy for.
• Give them a good run first. Even 15 minutes of play beforehand makes a huge difference.
• Don't worry about them behaving perfectly. That's literally what I'm here for.
• Bring a towel. I cannot stress this enough.

Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography Sunset Session at Cocoa Beach - A Couple with Their PupCopyright Kimberly Tank Art & Photography

Let's Make Some Magic

If you've been on the fence about including your dog in your session, this is your sign. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, just got engaged, or simply want photos that actually reflect your everyday life (dog hair and all), I would love to make that happen.

Brevard can sometimes feel like a tricky place to find dog-friendly beaches and location, but don't worry, I know ones that are!

Contact me for information on scheduling a session with your pup!