As a part of the wedding photographers Reno community, I’ve worked with incredible couples and captured many adventures. One thing that I adore most is when couples bring their pups along to their session! I have a red golden retriever named Merlot and love taking her with me any chance! Our pets become part of the family, and including them in your engagement sessions is a great way to incorporate them into your big day. Throughout the blog, I’ll share my best dog-friendly engagement session locations in Reno; let’s get to it!
Washoe Lake
First on my list, Washoe Lake is one of my favorite spots for adventure, photos, and rad experiences. Washoe Lake offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, campsites, hunting, boat access, and much more. Whether you’re planning a spring or summertime engagement session or even a snowy winter session, Washoe Lake is a great spot to bring your lover and pup for some epic shots. Head to their website for more details on best practices within the park.
Gardnerville
Known for its eclectic shopping scene and views of the Sierras, Gardnerville is an incredible little spot for some epic couples photos. We share a few favorite local spots in the wedding photographers Reno community. However, I am okay with bringing my couples out here for a slower-paced environment, prioritizing historic locations and adventure. Pets are welcome in Gardnerville to explore and enjoy the city’s various parks and views.
Moon Rocks
Next on the list, is an ever-elusive and popular spot, Moon Rocks. Popular in the outdoor adventure community for biking, free-riding, rock climbing, and so much more. Moon Rocks was nicknamed such for the towering granite rocks found throughout the area making it feel like you’re walking around on the moon! It’s free to enter the area, and all are welcome to explore. Also Moon Rocks allows fires during your visit, all the campfire and picnic vibes are incredible here! Bring your doggos along for a hike in the park and an activity-filled engagement session.
Sand Mountain | Wedding Photographers Reno Top Engagement Spot
If you’re looking for a serene and minimalist vibe for your engagement photos, consider heading to Sand Mountain. Surrounded by rolling hills of white sand, opportunities for adventure and photos are endless. Sand Mountain is another trendy spot for off-roading and calls to thrill seekers for a day filled with fun. You’ll have no trouble bringing your dog along for a day filled with fun!
Hope Valley
Most known for its picturesque fall colors, Hope Valley is another beautiful dog-friendly engagement session location in Reno. Although, it is an incredible spot year-round! Many flock to the area for hiking, snow-shoeing, and much more. When couples mention wanting to include their dog in engagement photos, I never want them to feel like they can’t get the same experience. Choosing Hope Valley for your engagement photos will have you feeling on top of the world while taking some epic shots.
The Red Rocks
Who says you must travel far to experience the beautiful red rocks? Not me! Head to Red Rocks Area Summits 30 minutes outside of Reno to witness the deep red rock’s beauty. This spot borders California and Nevada. However, all of the summits are found on Nevada’s side, making this a unique location. As always, practice leave no trace principles and enjoy the view!
Verdi – Dog-Friendly Engagement Photos Locations
Perhaps a less popular location among locals, but Verdi is still one of my favorites. It was one of the last cities in Nevada before hitting the California border but it filled with rich color, robust trees, and unbeatable views of the Sierras. Verdi is a small town that welcomes visitors and their fur babies alike to explore and recharge.
Downtown Reno
Last but not least, let’s head to the city! Downtown Reno is such a fun location to bring the edge with a little bit of Reno fun. Whether we’re just walking downtown and admiring the lights, or stopping at a bar or two, it’s perfect for a fun engagement session on the town. Bring your pup along for a walk around town!
When you are planning your engagement session and opt to bring your fur babies, don’t worry about your experience being any less. It’s all the same and going to be so much more special with your pets along for the ride!
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[…] We will start with your pets before we get into the couple portraits during your Reno engagement session! Especially if we’re including cats in the photos. If you want to include a cat, I suggest starting at your house or a familiar environment for them. This is the easiest way to get them comfortable in front of the camera! This allows for the most natural interaction and a cozy feel during your session. Dogs are a little easier to work with as we can bring them to the location, so long as it’s pet-friendly! […]