Including Your Children or Dog in Your Nottingham or Derby Engagement Photoshoot
Real Session Feature: Ria & Luke at Happy Hounds Secure Field, Derby
Planning your engagement session and wondering whether to include your fur baby or your little one? The answer is a huge YES — and Ria and Luke's gorgeous shoot at Happy Hounds Secure Field in Derby is the perfect example of why bringing the whole family can make your photos even more special.
A Family-Focused Engagement Shoot
Ria and Luke are a wonderful couple with a beautiful connection that’s so easy to photograph. But what made their session extra meaningful was the decision to include two very important family members: their adorable daughter and their 10-year-old Boxer dog.
We chose Happy Hounds Secure Field in Derby for the shoot — a private, enclosed space perfect for dogs to safely roam off-lead. It gave their senior pup the freedom to explore, sniff around, and enjoy the day at his own pace. He may be 10 years old, but he still had plenty of energy and loved being part of the fun!
And their daughter? An absolute joy. Natural, giggly, and full of love for Mum and Dad — she added such warmth and authenticity to every photo.
Donkeys, Horses & Magical Moments
One of the unexpected highlights of this Derby engagement session was discovering donkeys and horses just over the fence from the secure field! It added a unique and whimsical touch to the background of some of their portraits — and their daughter was absolutely fascinated. Moments like this are why I always encourage couples to choose locations that feel relaxed and natural to them.
Why Include Your Dog or Child in Your Engagement Session?
Whether you're planning your big day in Nottingham, Derby, or beyond, your engagement shoot is all about you as a couple — but it can also beautifully reflect the family you’ve already built.
Here’s why it works so well:
- More natural interactions: Playing with your child or walking your dog creates genuine, candid moments.
- Comfort and familiarity: Having your little one or pup around makes the shoot feel less formal and more fun.
- Memories that matter: These photos will remind you of this season in your lives, beyond just the wedding planning.
Location: Happy Hounds Secure Field, Derby
If you're considering including your dog in your session, Happy Hounds Secure Field in Derby is a brilliant choice. It's fully enclosed, spacious, and provides a calm environment with minimal distractions — perfect for dogs that need to feel safe off-lead.
Plus, the natural scenery and peaceful atmosphere make for beautiful backdrops without the worry of busy parks or public spaces.
Planning Your Own Engagement Session?
If you’re recently engaged and want your shoot to feel relaxed, authentic, and full of personal touches — let’s chat! Whether it’s your dog, your child, or just the two of you, I’ll help you plan a session that reflects your story.
Covering Nottingham, Derby, and the surrounding areas
Pet- and child-friendly engagement photographer
Natural, candid photography to capture your connection
Contact Me to start planning your perfect shoot!
