A playful Carmel Beach couples session starring one very good mini goldendoodle
Let's be honest: for a lot of couples, the dog is the kid. He gets the best spot on the couch, has more toys than both of you combined, and his birthday is on the family calendar. So why would he be left out of the family photos?
Kelsi and Adam won this session at the Chocolate and Wine Benefit for Monterey Public Library 2025, where I auctioned off a couples portrait session to support the library. It was their first time doing professional couple portraits, and they had one very important question when we were planning: could their dog come?
Of course he could.
Meet Vito, a mini goldendoodle with professional-level fluff and the confidence of a seasoned model. Kelsi and Adam even brought a helper to hold his leash between shots. That's how you know he's a member of the family.
We met at Carmel Beach in September, with cypress trees, soft coastal light, sandy paws and a happy, chaotic energy that only a doodle can bring. We got the sweet, romantic portraits they came for, and then Vito joined in and the session became what it was really about: a family that happens to have four legs on one member.
Your fur baby belongs in the photos, too
Dogs, cats or anyone else with fur, feathers or scales: if they're family, they're welcome. Pets bring out real laughter, real snuggles and the kind of unposed moments couples love most. Bonus: you've just solved this year's holiday card. Forget the blurry phone selfie in front of the tree. Send everyone something you'll be proud to put on the fridge.
Book your couple + pet session and let your favorite kid have a proper photo shoot.
