Beautiful images of our children—and our four-legged family members—are what I create for Toronto clients year after year. These portraits matter because pets are integral family members, and the bonds children form with their animals are relationships worth documenting professionally. This is lifestyle photography that honors the complete family constellation.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is capturing moments in progress—anticipating what's about to unfold. Here, this girl is just about to sneak a pat on Paddington's head. That anticipation, that fraction of a second before contact, contains beautiful tension and tenderness. It's more dynamic and emotionally resonant than a static posed portrait could ever be.
While this shares its title with the famous 1796 painting "Portrait of a Girl with her Dog" by Jean Jacques Lequeu, it takes on its own contemporary and far less serious twist. The classical title elevates the everyday moment with gentle humor, acknowledging art history while celebrating the timeless connection between children and their beloved pets.
This image works editorially because it captures authentic relationship rather than manufactured pose. The girl's focus on her dog, the approaching gesture of affection, Paddington's patient presence—these elements tell a story. It's documentary photography with artistic composition, honoring both the technical craft and the emotional substance.
The relationship between children and their pets creates some of the most treasured family photographs. These bonds are profound, formative, and heartbreakingly temporary given the shorter lifespans of our four-legged family members. Professional documentation ensures these relationships are preserved beautifully for the years after Paddington and dogs like him are no longer physically present.
Location: Moore Park private home, Toronto.
Keywords: children (8), house (29), indoor (31), kids (43), pets (3). 1/60; f/4.0; ISO 1600; 29.0 mm.