Family Photo Sessions with Pets: Best Dog-Friendly Spots in Denver
In Denver, pets are family. Whether it’s your golden retriever, rescue mutt, or the energetic doodle your kids can’t stop hugging, bringing your dog to a family photo session makes the experience more real, more joyful, and honestly, more you.
But not every location works well when you’ve got paws on deck. You need space, leash-friendly trails, and a vibe that welcomes a little chaos. Here are my favorite dog-friendly photo locations in Denver that deliver great light, natural backdrops, and a relaxed atmosphere for both humans and hounds.
1. Sloan’s Lake Park
Sloan’s Lake is perfect for families who want open skies, water views, and a classic Denver city-meets-nature look. Dogs are welcome on leash, and there’s plenty of space for wide shots, walking poses, and candid moments. Bonus: It’s especially dreamy at sunset with the Denver skyline in the background.
Best for: Sunset sessions, waterfront vibes, casual family portraits with movement.
2. Cherry Creek State Park (Dog Off-Leash Area)
If you want your dog to truly run free, this is the spot. The off-leash dog area at Cherry Creek is massive—think open meadows, water access, and wooded trails. If your family is up for a little adventure and doesn’t mind getting your shoes dusty, this is the perfect place for relaxed, natural portraits where your dog can just be a dog.
Best for: Active pups, families who love outdoorsy photojournalistic moments, big open landscapes.
3. Wash Park (Washington Park)
Wash Park is a Denver staple for a reason. With wide trails, flower gardens, and grassy fields, it’s ideal for structured family portraits and playful dog shots. There’s enough room to keep your dog close while still capturing natural moments like leash walks, snuggles on a blanket, or a tail-wagging family pile-up.
Best for: Families wanting classic park portraits with polished styling but a relaxed feel.
4. Cheesman Park + Botanic Gardens Perimeter Trails
Dogs aren’t allowed inside the Botanic Gardens, but the gravel trails around Cheesman Park and the Gardens perimeter are fair game. These areas have beautiful old trees, soft filtered light, and architecture that adds subtle structure to your photos. If you’re a Capitol Hill family, it’s also a super convenient option.
Best for: Urban-adjacent families, older dogs who do better with short walks, leash-friendly posing.
5. Berkeley Lake Park + Tennyson Street Add-On
This one’s great for families who want a more eclectic, neighborhood-style vibe. Start at Berkeley Lake Park for nature shots, then walk over to Tennyson Street for some fun, candid photos near local murals or dog-friendly patios. It’s perfect for a lifestyle shoot that blends nature with real life.
Best for: Hip urban families, families with older kids + dogs, documentary-style shoots.
🎯 Pro Tips for Photo Sessions with Dogs:
Bring a neutral leash (tan, black, or gray photographs best)
Pack treats and a favorite toy to grab their attention
Brush them beforehand—it matters
Exercise them first, especially high-energy breeds
Accept a little chaos—some of the best images come from the in-between moments
Pets make photo sessions unpredictable, hilarious, and beautifully authentic. If your dog is part of your daily life, they belong in your family photos.
Let me know if you want to make your session dog-friendly, I’ll help you choose the right location and plan a session that works for every family member, paws included.
