How to Include your Dog during your Photoshoot
As a dog-obsessed human, it’s really hard for me to tell couples NOT to bring their dogs, but there are a few times when it’s really just not possible, or the couple’s expectations are not in line with what is safe and doable with a dog in toe. Dogs are not safe on cliffs in Big Sur, especially with all the rabbits running around, I would be so worried our clumsy dog would chase a rabbit right off the cliff edge. Does your dog get jealous when you make out with your partner? ( Mine does) That means when you are kissing during photos they are probably going to start jumping and trying to grab your attention, this isn’t a clean beach experience. But when couples embrace these obstacles and really just focus on the moment over the location and the look magic can happen and you have lifelong memories captured with your best friend.
Choose a beach that is dog friendly, your photographer can help guide you on this but you want beaches like Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur where dogs are welcomed.
Be ok with getting dirty and wet. Have you noticed your dog loves to dig and run in the wet sand? That wet sand combo is going to jump on you.
Focus on playing and interacting, don’t expect your dog to be constantly smiling and looking at me. The cutest moments just happen, be patient.
Have someone there to help watch or hold the dog if you need a break, or be okay leaving your dog in the car ( with the windows down or in a Tesla with dog mode ) in case it just doesn’t work. I’ve had dogs chase the bunnies and couples are unable to control their pup, this is much less frustrating if you can hand your pup off to someone else.
Stay in a dog-friendly hotel, hotels like Alila Ventana in Big Sur and Cypress Inn in Carmel California are great options.
Camila and Greg Eloped this week at Garrapata Beach. When Hwy 1 had a rock slide a week ago we had to quickly pivot away from their original plan of getting married in the redwoods. They found an incredible Airbnb at Ribera Beach where they had their first look and ceremony. From there we adventured down the coast with an impromptu cheesecake on the hood of their rented vintage Thunderbird. They were both so full of joy and love it was infectious.