Babies, Bellies, and Doggies: A Heartwarming Session with the Palmatier Family

Every now and then, a session comes along that speaks directly to your soul. That’s exactly how I felt during my time with the Palmatier family. This session was a beautiful blend of love, excitement, and the sweetest little touches that made it unforgettable.

What made this session extra special? It wasn’t just the glowing mama-to-be or the adorable little ones—it was the family’s furry companions, who are just as much a part of their lives as anyone else. As someone whose own pup feels like another child, I couldn’t have been more thrilled when they asked if their dogs could be part of the shoot. My answer was an enthusiastic yes!

The Perfect Combination

There’s something magical about capturing a family’s love, and the Palmatier family brought it all: babies, bellies, and doggies! Their two pups were absolute naturals in front of the camera. Whether they were sitting sweetly by their mom and dad or playfully interacting with the kiddos, they added so much personality and charm to every shot.

It was heartwarming to see the bond this family shares—not just with each other but with their dogs as well. It’s clear that these pups are more than pets; they’re beloved family members. Watching the way the kids interacted with them was a reminder of how pure and beautiful these connections can be.

A Referral That Was Meant to Be

The Palmatier family came to me through a referral from a co-worker, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. Sometimes, the stars align, and everything just feels right. From the moment we started planning the session, I knew this would be one to remember.

We chose a location that held a little magic of its own. It’s a spot that’s both close and convenient for us, with the added bonus of being peaceful and uncrowded—ideal for ensuring the pups wouldn’t feel overwhelmed. The setting also features some of my all-time favorite lighting. While it photographs beautifully at any time of day, it truly comes alive in the soft glow of the late evening light.

Capturing the Magic

The session itself was a dream. The Palmatier family brought so much warmth and joy, and the love they share was evident in every frame. The kids were full of energy and laughter, the pups were perfectly behaved (and so photogenic!), and mom and dad’s connection radiated through each shot.

What I love most about family sessions like this is how dynamic they are. From capturing the gentle glow of an expectant mother to the lively interactions between siblings and the loyal companionship of the family dogs, every moment tells a story. It’s the kind of session that reminds me why I love what I do.

Why Including Pets Matters

For families like the Palmatiers—and mine—pets are part of the family. They share in our milestones, offer unconditional love, and bring an extra layer of joy to our lives. Including them in a family session isn’t just a sweet addition; it’s a way to honor their role in our lives.

As a photographer, I’m always thrilled when clients want to incorporate their furry friends into their photos. It adds so much personality and authenticity to the images, and it’s a great way to create memories that truly reflect who they are as a family.

Final Thoughts

This session with the Palmatier family is one I’ll treasure forever. It was filled with everything that makes life beautiful: love, laughter, and the kind of connection that makes your heart feel full.

To the Palmatiers: thank you for trusting me to capture these special moments for you. Your family’s warmth, joy, and love were such a gift to photograph.

For anyone considering a family session, don’t be afraid to bring your whole family—including the furry ones! These are the details that make your story uniquely yours, and they deserve to be celebrated.

Check out this sweet session below—I promise you’ll fall in love with this amazing family (and their adorable pups) just like I did!