Pets Of The Hills Calendar: Star Mail Article 24.06.2025

“For Emerald photographer Michelle, there’s nothing more rewarding than capturing the bond between people and their pets. Now, for the third year in a row, she’s turning that passion into a way to give back with her “Pets of the Hills calendar”, showcasing much-loved local animals. Every dollar raised going directly to the Gembrook Wildlife Shelter – a cause that’s especially close to Michelle’s heart.”

Since relocating from Ferntree Gully to Emerald a little over three years ago, Michelle has fallen in love with the Hills and the people who call it home – many of whom treat their pets as true family members.

“Being new to the area, I wanted to find a way to give back to this beautiful community while also getting to know the locals,” Michelle said.

“The idea for the calendar was something close to my heart – a way to connect, celebrate our pets, and support a cause that really matters.”

It was a casual conversation at Emerald Stockfeed that first sparked the idea into motion.

The staff there loved the concept and pointed Michelle in the direction of Gembrook Vet, where she learned about the tireless work of Helen, the quiet force behind Gembrook Wildlife Shelter.

“When I first spoke to Helen, her passion for wildlife was clear. She’s incredibly humble about the work she does, but when I visited the shelter, I was blown away. She’s turned her entire property into a haven for injured and orphaned animals. It’s her life’s work – and it’s all self-funded,” Michelle said.

That visit ignited Michelle’s determination to help – not with words, but with action.

Through Pets Of The Hills, local pet owners can donate $65 to have their furry, feathered or fluffy companion professionally photographed for a chance to be featured in the 2026 calendar.

The experience includes a 90-minute session, a printed calendar, a photo viewing session, and a $100 credit for photo purchases – with 5 per cent of sales also donated to the shelter.

“It’s not just a photo shoot. It’s a forever memory of their beloved pet and I love seeing the connection between pets and their people,” Michelle said.

“There’s always laughter – dogs jumping on me, alpacas spitting at me, – but also really touching moments. Last year, I photographed a five-year-old boy and his miniature schnauzer, Barkley. Listening to him talk about their adventures and then seeing his pride when he saw the photographs – it was just beautiful”

The calendar has quickly become a local favourite, with familiar furry faces like Fergus the ginger cat from Nookee Cafe, Marley the Fernlea House Boxer-cross, and Pippa the Whippet from Gembrook all making appearances.

But the heart of the project is always Gembrook Wildlife Shelter.

Helen’s dedication means countless native animals – kangaroos, wombats, possums, even an emu – get a second chance.

She and a small team of volunteers work around the clock, with her volunteers coming during the mornings and Helen waking through the night. Wildlife volunteers in general work around-the-clock attending to call outs.

“I think people forget what happens after a car hits a kangaroo,” Michelle said.

“Helen is there, day in, day out, doing the work most of us never see. I hope this calendar not only raises money but raises awareness, too. Every person who buys a calendar becomes part of that awareness.”

Local support has been nothing short of inspiring.

With the help of Bendigo Bank Emerald and Surrounds – who’ve provided community sponsorship for both the 2025 and 2026 calendars – and several local businesses, the project has raised around $4000 each year.

“Having the support of our local business sponsors means we can cover printing costs, and that ensures every calendar sold puts money straight into Helen’s hands to buy feed and supplies for the animals,” Michelle said.

“It’s been a joy to bring this project to life each year. It fulfils something deep within me – that desire to help, to give back, and to celebrate the special role pets play in our lives,” Michelle said.

To learn more or apply to have your pet featured, visit: www.capturedheartsphotography.com.au/calendar

By Shamsiya Hussainpoor

The post Star Mail: Pets Of The Hills Calendar Article appeared first on Captured Hearts Photography.

Your pet isn’t “extra” — they’re family. At Captured Hearts Photography, we understand how important it is to include your fur baby when welcoming a new child. That’s why we specialise in creating newborn pictures with dog that capture the gentle bond forming between baby and pet in a calm, natural way.

These early moments are fleeting. Including your dog in your newborn session preserves a chapter of your family story that will never come again — and deserves to be remembered beautifully.

A Calm, Pet-Friendly Approach to Newborn Photography

Every session is guided with patience and care. A pet friendly newborn photoshoot allows babies to remain settled and dogs to move naturally, without pressure or forced interaction.

From subtle moments of curiosity to quiet closeness, we gently capture connection — whether it’s soft newborn detail or thoughtful photography of dog moments that reflect your pet’s true personality.

Creating Beautiful Images of Your Baby and Dog Together

A dog and picture with your newborn is more than a photo — it’s the beginning of a lifelong bond. Each dog and baby photoshoot is designed to feel relaxed and safe, with plenty of time for breaks and gentle guidance.

Whether it’s a cute new born and dog picture or a softly composed portrait of your baby resting near their furry companion, every image is created with safety, comfort, and authenticity in mind.

Safety Always Comes First

Parents often ask how to take newborn photos with dog safely. The answer lies in experience, preparation, and calm pacing.

Sessions are structured to ensure:

• Constant supervision
  
• Natural positioning rather than forced poses
  
• Dogs are allowed to approach at their own pace
  
• Babies remain fully supported at all times
  

This approach ensures the best way to pose baby and dog together in photos never compromises comfort or safety.

Expert Guidance for Babies and Pets

Every family dynamic is different. Some dogs are curious, others more reserved — and both are perfectly okay. With years of experience working with babies and pets, Michelle gently adapts each session to suit your family.

From expressive dog photo dog moments to intimate newborn portraits, the goal is always the same: honest images that feel true to your family.

Book Your Newborn and Dog Photography Session

Including your pet in your newborn session creates portraits that are deeply meaningful and emotionally rich. These images become treasured reminders of the love that filled your home from the very beginning.

If you’re dreaming of heartfelt newborn pictures with dog that feel calm, safe, and timeless, Captured Hearts Photography is here to guide you every step of the way.That’s clean now.
No broken language. No credibility leaks.
Ready for the next one when you are.

The post Including Your Fur Baby in Your Newborn Photography Session appeared first on Captured Hearts Photography.

The bond between a baby and a family pet is something truly special. From quiet snuggles to curious glances, these early moments are filled with innocence, trust, and love. At Captured Hearts Photography, these connections are treated with care, patience, and deep respect — creating images that feel as beautiful as the memories themselves.

Combining the sweetness of newborns with cute pictures of doggies creates portraits that are full of warmth, personality, and heart. These sessions celebrate the full family story — tiny humans and loyal companions together.

Creating Timeless Memories with Babies and Pets

Family portraits should feel natural, not forced. A calm environment allows babies to settle and pets to relax, creating space for genuine interaction.

Sessions are designed to capture real moments — soft smiles, gentle curiosity, and the quiet bond forming between baby and pet. The result is a collection of images filled with love, emotion, and authenticity, including adorable dog images that reflect your pet’s true personality.

Beautiful Portraits of Newborns and Beloved Pets

Your pet is part of the family, and their role deserves to be honoured. With extensive experience capturing pics of little dogs alongside newborns, Michelle ensures every family member feels safe, comfortable, and included.

A newborn with dog photoshoot is approached slowly and gently, allowing pets to move naturally and babies to remain settled. Nothing is rushed. Every moment is guided with patience and care.

Can Dogs Be Included in Newborn Photos?

Many parents ask, can you include dogs in newborn photos? The answer is yes — with the right approach.

These sessions are carefully planned to prioritise safety and comfort. Understanding animal behaviour, reading body language, and creating calm transitions are key to making these portraits meaningful and stress-free.

Making Newborn and Pet Sessions Safe and Relaxed

Parents often wonder how to make a newborn and dog photoshoot safe. Safety always comes first.

Some important considerations include:

• Keeping sessions calm and unhurried
  
• Allowing pets to approach naturally
  
• Never forcing interaction
  
• Maintaining constant supervision
  

These thoughtful steps ensure everyone feels secure and supported throughout the session.

Helpful Guidance for Photographing Babies and Pets Together

Knowing the best tips for photographing kids and pets helps create beautiful, natural images. Preparation is gentle and minimal, ensuring no one feels overwhelmed.

Michelle provides guidance on how to prepare pets and babies for a photoshoot together, from timing sessions around feeds and naps to allowing pets time to explore the space calmly.

Why Families Love Baby and Pet Portraits

It’s no surprise people ask, are baby and pet portraits popular? These sessions are cherished because they capture a fleeting chapter that passes all too quickly.

They preserve:

• The beginning of a lifelong bond
  
• The innocence of early family life
  
• The unique role pets play in a child’s story
  

These portraits become deeply meaningful keepsakes as children grow.

A Calm, Caring Experience from Start to Finish

Captured Hearts Photography offers a relaxed, thoughtful experience where families feel supported every step of the way. There are no stiff poses or forced moments — just genuine connection, guided gently.

If you’re dreaming of timeless family portraits that include your baby and your pet, these sessions create heartfelt memories through adorable dog images, tender newborn moments, and the quiet love shared between them.

Because families don’t come in parts — they come together. 

The post Babies and Pets: An Adorable Combination Worth Capturing Forever appeared first on Captured Hearts Photography.

Using Your Own Home as a Space Photoshoot Location for Family Photos

Your home isn’t just where you live — it’s where your family’s story happens. From everyday routines to quiet moments of connection, these familiar surroundings already hold meaning. Choosing your own home as the setting for a family photoshoot allows those moments to be captured naturally, without pressure or performance.

Using your own property as a photoshoot space creates a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable. Children settle more easily, pets stay calm, and genuine emotion comes through — resulting in images that feel warm, honest, and timeless.

Creating the Perfect Photoshoot at Home

A perfect photoshoot doesn’t require a styled house or a picture-perfect setup. What matters most is comfort, light, and connection. When families photograph at home, the experience feels calm and familiar, allowing real interactions to unfold naturally.

Whether you’re planning an indoor family photoshoot at home or using outdoor areas of your property, the goal is the same — to create images that reflect who you are, exactly as you are.

How to Photoshoot Naturally in Your Own Space

Many families wonder how to plan an at-home photoshoot or whether their home is suitable. The good news is that most homes already have everything needed for beautiful photography.

Michelle provides clear home photography tips before your session, including how to photoshoot using natural light, choosing comfortable areas, and keeping styling simple so attention stays on connection rather than surroundings.

Finding the Right Photo Place in Your Home or Backyard

Every home has its own ideal photo place. A softly lit living room, a favourite couch, or a quiet corner near a window can become the perfect photo place for meaningful portraits.

Families often ask, can my backyard be a good location? In most cases, yes. Backyards offer space to move, play, and interact naturally, making them an excellent option for relaxed family photos.

Creating a Perfect Photo Place Without Overthinking

The beauty of a home-based session is that nothing needs to feel forced. A successful space photoshoot focuses on areas where your family already spends time, allowing emotion and interaction to lead the way.

With gentle guidance and thoughtful composition, everyday spaces are transformed into a perfect photo place that still feels authentic and lived-in.

How to Create Beautiful Family Photoshoot Moments at Home

The most meaningful portraits aren’t created in unfamiliar locations — they’re created where life happens. Choosing your own home as your photoshoot location allows your family to relax, connect, and simply be together.

If you’ve ever wondered how to create beautiful family photoshoot images without leaving home, the answer lies in comfort, familiarity, and expert guidance.

Captured Hearts Photography creates professional space photoshoot experiences that turn homes and properties into the perfect photoshoot setting — preserving real moments, real connection, and the heart of family life. 🏡📸

The post Using Your Own Home as a Space Photoshoot Location for Family Photos appeared first on Captured Hearts Photography.

For many families, dogs aren’t just pets — they’re part of the heart of the home. A family with dog portrait celebrates loyalty, companionship, and the everyday joy that dogs bring into our lives.

Including your dog in your session adds warmth, personality, and life to every image. These portraits capture what truly defines family — love, laughter, and connection — in a way that feels genuine and deeply meaningful.

Family with Dog Portraits That Feel Natural and Relaxed

At Captured Hearts Photography, every family with a dog session is designed to feel calm, patient, and unrushed. Dogs are free to be themselves, and families are gently guided so nothing feels forced or uncomfortable.

These sessions create timeless portraits that honour the unspoken bond shared between people and their pets — the kind of images that grow more precious with time.

Creating a Beautiful Dog with Family Portrait That Feels Real

A thoughtfully captured dog with family portrait tells a story of companionship and belonging. Whether photographed outdoors or in a familiar setting, the focus is always on interaction rather than perfection.

Soft light, natural movement, and gentle direction ensure every image feels warm, emotional, and authentic.

Pictures with Dogs That Capture Real Personality

The most meaningful pictures with dogs come from real moments — playful walks, quiet cuddles, and shared laughter. Dogs bring an energy and honesty to photos that can’t be staged.

Each session is guided to highlight personality and connection, ensuring your pictures with dogs feel effortless, joyful, and full of life.

Creating a Natural Photo Family Photo Experience with Pets

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When pets are included, portraits become even more meaningful. Beautiful pictures of dogs and family capture not just who was there, but how it felt to be together in that moment.

These images preserve genuine emotion and reflect the unique role pets play within the family unit.

Family Photography with Dogs That’s Calm and Enjoyable

Professional family photography with dogs should feel relaxed and pet-friendly. Sessions are structured to allow time for breaks, movement, and play — ensuring dogs and children feel comfortable throughout.

Families often ask about the best way to pose family with dog for photos. The answer is simple: natural closeness, gentle interaction, and letting your dog be themselves.

Where and How to Photograph Your Family with Dogs

Choosing where to take pictures with dogs depends on your family’s lifestyle. Whether it’s a favourite park, a quiet trail, or a familiar outdoor space, comfort always comes first.

Michelle provides guidance on the best way to pose family with dog for photos, helping everyone feel at ease while capturing images that are heartfelt and timeless.

Why Families Choose Captured Hearts Photography

Families trust Captured Hearts Photography because:

• Sessions are calm, relaxed, and pet-friendly
  
• Every image captures genuine emotion and connection
  
• Dogs are treated as true family members
  

These portraits celebrate love in all its forms — two-legged and four-legged — creating images filled with warmth, joy, and authenticity.

Because a family photo doesn’t feel complete without every heart in the picture. 

Including your dog in your session adds warmth, personality, and life to every image. These portraits capture what truly defines family — love, laughter, and connection — in a way that feels genuine and deeply meaningful.

Family with Dog Portraits That Feel Natural and Relaxed

At Captured Hearts Photography, every family with a dog session is designed to feel calm, patient, and unrushed. Dogs are free to be themselves, and families are gently guided so nothing feels forced or uncomfortable.

These sessions create timeless portraits that honour the unspoken bond shared between people and their pets — the kind of images that grow more precious with time.

Creating a Beautiful Dog with Family Portrait That Feels Real

A thoughtfully captured dog with family portrait tells a story of companionship and belonging. Whether photographed outdoors or in a familiar setting, the focus is always on interaction rather than perfection.

Soft light, natural movement, and gentle direction ensure every image feels warm, emotional, and authentic.

Pictures with Dogs That Capture Real Personality

The most meaningful pictures with dogs come from real moments — playful walks, quiet cuddles, and shared laughter. Dogs bring an energy and honesty to photos that can’t be staged.

Each session is guided to highlight personality and connection, ensuring your pictures with dogs feel effortless, joyful, and full of life.

Creating a Natural Photo Family Photo Experience with Pets

(optional removal if not targeting mixed keyword clusters — tell me if you want this section trimmed)

When pets are included, portraits become even more meaningful. Beautiful pictures of dogs and family capture not just who was there, but how it felt to be together in that moment.

These images preserve genuine emotion and reflect the unique role pets play within the family unit.

Family Photography with Dogs That’s Calm and Enjoyable

Professional family photography with dogs should feel relaxed and pet-friendly. Sessions are structured to allow time for breaks, movement, and play — ensuring dogs and children feel comfortable throughout.

Families often ask about the best way to pose family with dog for photos. The answer is simple: natural closeness, gentle interaction, and letting your dog be themselves.

Where and How to Photograph Your Family with Dogs

Choosing where to take pictures with dogs depends on your family’s lifestyle. Whether it’s a favourite park, a quiet trail, or a familiar outdoor space, comfort always comes first.

Michelle provides guidance on the best way to pose family with dog for photos, helping everyone feel at ease while capturing images that are heartfelt and timeless.

Why Families Choose Captured Hearts Photography

Families trust Captured Hearts Photography because:

• Sessions are calm, relaxed, and pet-friendly
  
• Every image captures genuine emotion and connection
  
• Dogs are treated as true family members
  

These portraits celebrate love in all its forms — two-legged and four-legged — creating images filled with warmth, joy, and authenticity.

Because a family photo doesn’t feel complete without every heart in the picture.

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