Calling all animal lovers! Enjoy our hand-picked selection of the best pet photos for our Wedding Photography Awards. Pets bring so much comfort and joy to a wedding. They’re a great source of fun and entertainment, and can add such a personal touch.
OVERALL WINNER: The Studio Without Walls | Adrian Neal
The story behind this photo: “Hungry dog at a wedding reception…loved its bow tie!”
Why we chose this photo as our overall winner: What a beautifully captured, funny and memorable photo! We adore the little dog’s cheeky expression as it eyes up the platters, and the way it stands to the side, front legs held up, like it’s one of the human guests. The purple bow tie adds to the comical effect and gives this photo real personality. We love the brightness of this shot too, with the vibrant saturated colours standing out against the black background.
Read on for our list of honourable mentions, whose submissions simply blew us away!
Ajie Jones Photography | Adrian Williams-Jones
The story behind this photo: “The speeches went on too long for Toto.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: This little dog’s sleepy expression is so adorable! We love the way it rests its chin on the table, and looks directly at the camera.
Alexa Poppe Wedding Photography | Alexa Poppe
The story behind this photo: “Liz loves goats! So when she found out that the venue had their very own goats we decided to meet them. The goat was not fussed about us so much and had an obsession with Liz’s beautiful colourful bouquet!”
Why we shortlisted this photo: This photo really made us smile – the goat’s cheekiness, the colourful flowers, the bride’s laughter. Everything about it is uplifting and joyful.
Andy Sidders Photography | Andy Sidders
The story behind this photo: “Maia and Matt petting ‘Porka Radcliffe’ and ‘Uswine Bolt’ after some amazing pig racing at Maia and Matt’s wedding at Stowe House.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: A super fun and unique take on the pets at weddings theme! We love the perspective from the ground up, with the couple crouching at the pig’s level.
Boryczewski Photography Zee | Zdzislaw Boryczewski
The story behind this photo: “Just before the ceremony the groom gave some love to his dog. But the dog’s look!!!”
Why we shortlisted this photo: A lovely heart-warming image, with an unusual composition. The connection between the groom and his little fur baby is beautiful to see.
Flisher Photography Ltd | Luke Flisher
The story behind this photo: “Kirsty is a dog trainer and it was important to the couple to have their dogs be a part of their wedding at the beautiful Stubton Hall.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: This is such a fun and light-hearted image. We love the composition and colours, with the three gorgeous dogs taking centre stage.
Harry Richards Photography | Harry Richards
The story behind this photo: “The bride took her pet horse for a walk.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: A beautiful, timeless image which captures a real feeling of freedom and wildness. The black and white palette adds a sense of refinement and elegance.
James Ireland Photography Ltd | James Ireland
Photo © James Ireland Photography Ltd | See their Bridebook profile
The story behind this photo: “This Dalmatian sat and waited so patiently at the front of the queue for the wedding breakfast.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: This is a fun yet sophisticated image, with a striking composition. We love how the black and white palette picks out the Dalmatian’s spots.
John Hope Photography | John Hope
The story behind this photo: “This couple’s dog latched onto the energy of the couple gesturing everyone to the dancefloor after their first dance. He clearly wasn’t going to be left out!”
Why we shortlisted this photo: We love to see this dog joining in the dancing like one of the human guests. There is a wonderful energy and vibrancy to this photo.
Luke Hardy Photography | Luke Hardy
The story behind this photo: “Rosie was only staying for the church ceremony but she just had to be a part of some of the photos. She’s so happy that mummy and daddy are now married.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: A charming, candid shot of the couple walking with their adorable dog! We love the subdued, wintry tones in contrast with the pops of festive red.
Sam Chipman Photography | Sam Chipman
The story behind this photo: “Lauren and John always wanted their trusty doggo, Gryff, to be a big part of their wedding day. And he definitely played his part and stole the show.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: We agree that Gryff stole the show here! We love the way he’s smiling at the camera, held between the couple, who are themselves smiling at each other.
White Thistle Wedding Photography | Simon Fox
The story behind this photo: “Usually the wedding couple have special requests for family or friends they want me to make sure I get a photo of. However, for Andy and Vicky, their priority was their dog Freyja.”
Why we shortlisted this photo: This is such vibrant and joyful image, full of character and personality! We love the bright colours, the confetti, and the dog’s happy smile.
There you have our favourite photos of pets at weddings this year! Next in this series is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity, with the best of LGBTQ+.
You Might Also Like…
- Best First Look Photos of 2022
- Best First Dance Photos of 2022
- Most Emotional Ceremony Moments of 2022
- Best Cake & Champagne Moments of 2022
- Best Couple Shots of 2022
- Best Group Shots of 2022
- Best Artistic Shots of 2022
- Best Candid Shots of 2022
- Best Kids Wedding Photos of 2022
- Best LGBTQ+ Photos of 2022
- Best Themed Weddings of 2022
