Saying goodbye to a beloved dog is one of the hardest things a pet parent will ever face. As a Charlotte-based pet photographer who specializes in end-of-life and senior sessions, I’m often asked:
“How do I know when it’s the right time to book a session?”
There’s no perfect answer—but there are gentle signs that now may be the right time to document your bond. These sessions aren’t about saying goodbye. They’re about celebrating the life you’ve built together.
Here are five signs it may be time to book an end-of-life dog photography session.
1. Your Dog Is Slowing Down
If your pup used to be full of energy but now tires easily, sleeps more, or can’t go on long walks like they used to, it may be a sign that they’re entering their final chapter.
Photography sessions can be tailored around your dog’s energy level—whether that means relaxing in your backyard, lying on their favorite blanket, or simply capturing quiet snuggles.
2. You’ve Recently Received a Terminal Diagnosis
A terminal illness like cancer, kidney failure, or heart disease can leave you feeling overwhelmed and helpless.
An end-of-life photo session offers a small way to regain control—giving you a chance to preserve moments, stories, and connection in a beautiful, lasting way.
Tip: I always prioritize last-minute sessions and work around your schedule when time is limited.
3. You Don’t Have Many Pictures Together
So many dog parents have hundreds of phone pictures of their dog—but very few with them. If you’ve never had professional photos taken of you and your dog together, now is the time.
These images become treasured memories—not just for you, but for your family, friends, and future generations who will hear the stories.
4. You Want to Celebrate Their Life, Not Just Mourn Their Passing
These sessions aren’t meant to be sad. In fact, many of them are filled with laughter, stories, and love.
Whether your dog still perks up at the sound of treats or rests their head in your lap peacefully, we’ll capture their personality and presence exactly as they are today.
5. You Keep Saying “I’ll Do It Soon…”
Time passes quickly, especially when we’re dealing with uncertainty. If you’ve been saying “I’ll book something soon” for a while now, take this as your sign.
My clients almost always say afterward: “I’m so glad we did this while we still could.”
What to Expect From an End-of-Life Pet Session
I meet you wherever your dog is most comfortable—your home, a quiet park, or your backyard. Sessions are calm, stress-free, and fully tailored to your dog’s pace. I’ll gently guide you, but the focus is always on capturing real moments and honest connection.
After your session, you’ll receive a gallery of fully edited, high-resolution images to keep, print, and cherish for years to come.
Ready to Talk?
If your heart is saying “now’s the time,” I’m here to help make the process easy and meaningful.
You can learn more about my end-of-life sessions here or contact me directly to talk through availability and options.
You don’t have to wait for the goodbye to celebrate a lifetime of love.