A fall couples photoshoot in Paris with two wonderfully stylish locals and their absolutely gorgeous cocker spaniel? YES, please!
When Guillaume and Erik booked their Paris mini session with us, thanks to a thoughtful gift card, they knew two things. They wanted to take their photos around Place Dauphine and Pont Neuf. And their beloved dog, Sparrow, would absolutely be joining them.
Beyond that? They were happy to leave the planning to us.
And we LOVE that.
Not everyone comes into a photoshoot with a Pinterest board, a carefully planned outfit palette, or a list of poses they want to recreate. In fact, you really don’t need any of those things!
Our job at Katie Donnelly Photography is to help you figure it all out. From choosing the perfect Paris location to guiding you through natural poses, we’re here to make the experience easy, fun, and completely personal.
For Guillaume, Erik, and Sparrow, that meant a beautiful late-autumn morning exploring Place Dauphine, Pont Neuf, and the banks of the Seine River.
The result? A collection of sophisticated, playful, and wonderfully authentic portraits of this little Parisian family of three.
And yes, Sparrow absolutely stole the show.
Before the Paris Couples Photoshoot: Planning Without a Pinterest Board
We always ask our clients a few questions before their session.
Some people send us pages of inspiration. Others have a very specific vision, down to the outfits, locations, and individual photographs they want.
Guillaume and Erik took a much more relaxed approach.
They had a location in mind, but otherwise trusted us to take the lead. And that’s exactly what we’re here for!
As a full-service Paris photography studio, we guide our clients through the entire process. We help with location choices, styling, timing, and all those little details that make a session feel effortless.
Our team of Parisian photographers knows that every couple photoshoot is different. Some clients have a clear vision, while others simply want to enjoy the experience and let us work our magic.
You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to understand photography. And you certainly don’t need to have everything planned before reaching out.
We can take care of that part.
Getting to Know Guillaume, Erik & Sparrow
Before every session, we love learning a little about the people we’ll be photographing.
Here’s what Guillaume and Erik shared with us.
Where would you prefer to have your Paris photoshoot?
“Pont Neuf / Place Dauphine.”
An excellent choice! These are two of our favorite locations for couples photography in Paris.
Who will be joining you for the photoshoot?
“My husband, who’s French-Norwegian, and my magnificent cocker spaniel, Sparrow.”
First of all, we LOVE that Sparrow got such an enthusiastic introduction.
And after meeting her, we couldn’t agree more with the word “magnificent.”
In 20 years, what would you love to see or feel when looking at your artwork?
“Not too sure. Something very nostalgic.”
We actually loved this answer.
Because sometimes, the goal of a photoshoot isn’t to capture a particular milestone or recreate a specific image.
It’s simply to remember what life felt like at that moment.
The way you looked at each other. Your favorite walks together. The little personality quirks of the dog you adore.
Twenty years from now, those ordinary moments can become the most meaningful ones.
And what better reason to have photographs taken?
Why Place Dauphine and Pont Neuf Are Perfect for a Fall Couples Photoshoot in Paris
With their preferred location settled, we could start planning the rest.
Place Dauphine is one of those wonderfully photogenic corners of Paris that offers SO much variety within a short walking distance.
Tucked away on the Île de la Cité, near Pont Neuf, this historic square is surrounded by elegant Parisian buildings, beautiful balconies, and rows of leafy trees.
In autumn, the foliage turns gorgeous shades of yellow and gold.
You also have charming streets, classic green Parisian benches, stone facades, and the Seine River just around the corner.
It’s the perfect combination of nature, architecture, and quintessential Parisian atmosphere.
And while the Eiffel Tower might be the most popular spot for visitors planning a Paris fall couples photoshoot, we love introducing clients to other beautiful corners of the city of love.
For couples dreaming of Eiffel Tower views, locations like Pont de Bir-Hakeim are wonderful options. We also adore Pont Alexandre III for its ornate architecture and romantic atmosphere.
But for Guillaume and Erik, Place Dauphine was the perfect choice.
Even during a short mini session, we can create a collection of photographs that feels incredibly varied. The nearby Seine is just a short walk away, making it easy to incorporate several beautiful backdrops without spending the whole session traveling.
For Guillaume and Erik, we wanted a mix of candid walking portraits, relaxed moments with Sparrow, and a few more polished couples photographs.
We also planned our route around dog-friendly public spaces, where Sparrow could comfortably join them on her leash.
Looking for Pet-Friendly Paris Photoshoot Ideas and Inspiration?
Thinking about including your dog in your own Paris photoshoot? We absolutely encourage it!
Your pet is part of your family, after all. And bringing them along adds so much personality, movement, and spontaneity to your photographs.
We love capturing the little interactions between people and their pets. Whether that’s a walk through the streets of Paris, a cuddle on a park bench, or a perfectly timed portrait of your four-legged companion.
Not sure where to start? We’ve put together a guide with plenty of inspiration and practical tips for including your pets in a Paris photoshoot.
From choosing the right location to preparing for your session, we’ll help you make sure everyone has a wonderful experience. Including the dog!
Preparing for the Paris Autumn Weather
Of course, there’s one thing we can’t control when planning an outdoor fall couples photoshoot in Paris.
The weather!
Late autumn can bring chilly temperatures, rain, and unpredictable skies. So we always keep an eye on the forecast and prepare accordingly.
For Guillaume and Erik, we considered the weather, comfortable walking routes, and locations where Sparrow would be welcome.
If rain had been forecast, we could have adjusted our plans and looked at suitable sheltered spots.
Thankfully, we ended up with a beautiful, dry autumn morning.
The temperature was mild enough for Guillaume and Erik to leave their jackets behind. Even better, the sky was covered in soft grey clouds.
Now, you might think bright sunshine and blue skies are ideal for a photoshoot.
But actually? Overcast days can produce some of the most beautiful, soft, flattering light.
Cloud cover acts like a giant natural diffuser. It softens harsh shadows and creates even light across faces.
For a romantic, slightly editorial Paris fall couples photoshoot, it’s absolutely gorgeous.
When planning an outdoor photo session, the best time isn’t always when the sun is shining brightest. The time of the day, weather conditions, and location all influence the final photographs.
And on this particular morning, the soft light was absolutely perfect.
During the Photoshoot: Making the Magic Happen at Place Dauphine & the Seine
With our route planned and the weather cooperating, it was finally time for the fun part!
Guillaume and Erik arrived looking effortlessly chic.
Both wore long-sleeved button-down shirts in complementary shades of muted blue and blue-green. They paired them with beautifully coordinated trousers and clean white sneakers.
Nothing overly matched. Just a subtle, cohesive look that felt relaxed and sophisticated.
Very Parisian.
Their outfits worked SO well with the golden autumn leaves, pale stone architecture, and green benches around Place Dauphine.
And then there was Sparrow.
An absolutely stunning cocker spaniel with caramel-colored fur, the sweetest face, and impeccable manners.
We were already completely smitten.
Golden Autumn Leaves and Empty Parisian Streets
One of the biggest advantages of scheduling a morning photoshoot in Paris is having some of the city’s most beautiful streets almost entirely to ourselves.
And that’s exactly what happened at Place Dauphine.
The streets were wonderfully quiet. On one side, golden autumn foliage framed the square. On the other, classic Parisian facades and balconies provided a beautiful architectural backdrop.
We started with some relaxed walking photographs of Guillaume and Erik, with Sparrow happily trotting alongside them on her leash.
These are some of our favorite types of portraits.
There’s natural movement, a little interaction, and no pressure to stand perfectly still or look directly into the camera.
Just two people enjoying a walk with their dog.
Ready to capture memories for your family?
We also captured some lovely portraits of Guillaume and Erik holding hands and looking toward the camera. Their coordinated blue shirts looked especially beautiful against the yellow foliage.
The combination of color, texture, and architecture made the entire scene feel polished without looking overly posed.
And that balance is exactly what we aim for.
A Pet-Friendly Paris Couples Fall Photoshoot With Sparrow
Now, let’s talk about our favorite four-legged model.
Sparrow was an absolute DREAM to photograph.
Not only was she beautiful, but she was also incredibly well-trained.
When Guillaume and Erik asked her to sit, she listened beautifully. Which meant we could capture some truly wonderful portraits of her on her own.
And honestly, how could we not?
Her golden caramel fur looked stunning against the classic green Parisian park benches.
We also photographed the three of them sitting together on a bench, with Sparrow happily nestled between her two favorite humans.
There were cuddles, plenty of affection, and those sweet little candid moments that happen when people are simply enjoying being together.
This is one of the reasons we adore including pets in portrait sessions.
A couples photoshoot with your dog becomes something between a romantic portrait session and a family photoshoot.
You still get beautiful photographs of your relationship. But you also get to celebrate the little companion who’s part of your everyday life.
It’s also a great way to make a fall couple photo shoot feel more relaxed. Having your dog along gives you something familiar to interact with, which naturally leads to sweet, spontaneous moments.
For Paris locals like Guillaume and Erik, these photographs are especially meaningful.
They’re not simply documenting a visit to Paris. They’re capturing their life here, together, in a city they call home.
And we think that’s pretty special.
Romantic Couples Portraits at Pont Neuf
Of course, we also wanted to give Guillaume and Erik some beautiful portraits of just the two of them.
Because even when your dog is the star of the session, we haven’t forgotten about the humans!
As we made our way toward Pont Neuf, we captured the couple walking together, holding hands, and enjoying the quiet morning.
Their connection was so natural.
One of our favorite photographs from the session is a black-and-white portrait of Guillaume and Erik looking at each other and laughing.
It’s simple, intimate, and full of personality.
No elaborate posing. No complicated setup.
Just a genuine moment between two people who clearly adore each other.
That’s one of the things we love most about couple photography. The perfect shots aren’t necessarily the most carefully posed ones. Sometimes, they’re the moments when you forget the camera is even there.
We love mixing these candid photographs with more classic portraits. It gives the final gallery a wonderful balance of emotion and elegance.
If you love this relaxed approach to couples photography, you might also enjoy Sheila and Jeff’s romantic Paris photoshoot on Île Saint-Louis.
Editorial-Style Photos Along the Seine River
Our walk continued across Pont Neuf and down toward the banks of the Seine.
And this is where the session took on a slightly more editorial feel.
The grey skies created a beautiful silvery light over the river. Historic Parisian buildings stretched along the opposite bank, adding depth and atmosphere to every photograph.
We captured Guillaume, Erik, and Sparrow walking together across Pont Neuf, with the Seine flowing below.
Then we headed down to the riverbank for some of our favorite images of the morning.
One photograph shows the three of them walking away from the camera along the Seine, with the gorgeous Parisian architecture in the background.
It’s understated, elegant, and wonderfully European.
The kind of photograph that could easily belong in a beautiful travel or lifestyle magazine.
We LOVE incorporating these wider, editorial-style photographs into our sessions.
They capture not only the people, but also the setting. The riverbank offered an incredible view of the historic buildings lining the Seine, adding a beautiful sense of place to the photographs.
Years from now, Guillaume and Erik will be able to look at these images and remember the Paris they shared with Sparrow.
And that’s the beauty of choosing a location with so many different backgrounds.
Within one relatively compact area, we photographed golden trees, quiet streets, elegant buildings, green park benches, a historic bridge, and the Seine River.
Each setting brought something different to the gallery.
You can see even more of these gorgeous moments in Guillaume, Erik and Sparrow’s full Paris photoshoot portfolio.
After the Photoshoot: Turning Paris Memories Into Fine Art
One of our favorite parts of the Katie Donnelly Photography experience happens after the camera is put away.
Because beautiful photographs deserve to be enjoyed beyond a phone screen!
At KDP, we specialize in creating museum-quality wall art and fine art albums that become part of your home and your family’s story.
After your session, you’ll be invited to our Paris photography studio for a same-day viewing and ordering appointment.
Rather than waiting weeks to see your photographs, you’ll get to experience your portraits while the memories of the session are still fresh.
During this appointment, we’ll guide you through your images and help you choose your favorites.
We’ll also show you our beautiful artwork options, from custom wall portraits to heirloom albums designed to be enjoyed for generations.
Imagine a stunning black-and-white portrait of Guillaume and Erik laughing together, displayed in their home.
Or a beautiful album filled with Sparrow’s sweet expressions, their quiet morning walks, and the golden autumn streets of Paris.
These are the kinds of memories that deserve a place in your everyday life.
Our artwork is professionally produced, and we can arrange worldwide shipping. Associated digital files are also included with artwork purchases.
We love helping clients create something tangible that they can see, touch, and revisit for years to come.
If you’re curious about why we’re so passionate about printed photography, read our guide to digital files versus heirloom artwork.
And remember Guillaume and Erik’s answer about what they wanted to feel when looking at their photographs in 20 years?
Nostalgia.
We can’t think of a better reason to turn these moments into lasting artwork.
In our Paris studio, we have two 30 in framed Fine Art Canvas portraits hanging on the wall from Guillaume and Erik’s photoshoot! We just LOVE looking at these stunning pictures every day.
Why You Don’t Need a Perfect Plan for Your Paris Photoshoot
If there’s one thing we hope you take away from Guillaume, Erik, and Sparrow’s session, it’s this:
You don’t need to arrive with all the answers.
You can have a very specific vision for your Paris photoshoot. Or you can simply tell us who you are, who’s coming along, and what feels important to you.
Both approaches are absolutely welcome.
We’ll help with the locations, outfits, lighting, posing, and all the little details that make a difference.
Our goal is to make the entire experience feel relaxed and enjoyable, while creating photographs that genuinely reflect you.
And sometimes, the most beautiful sessions begin with nothing more than a location, a little trust, and a very photogenic dog.
For more inspiration on preparing for your own session, take a look at our Paris photoshoot planning tips.
FAQs: About Paris Couples & Pet Photoshoots
Absolutely! We LOVE photographing couples with their pets.
Dogs are part of the family, and including them can make your photographs even more personal.
We’ll help you choose dog-friendly locations and plan a relaxed route. We recommend bringing a leash, treats, water, and anything that helps your pup feel comfortable.
That’s completely normal!
You don’t need professional modeling experience or a detailed inspiration board.
Our photographers guide you throughout the session with natural poses, gentle direction, and plenty of opportunities for candid moments.
We’ll also help you choose locations and prepare your outfits before the shoot.
YES! Place Dauphine, Pont Neuf, and the nearby banks of the Seine are wonderful options for couples with dogs.
The area offers beautiful architecture, tree-lined streets, benches, and riverside paths where leashed dogs can join you.
It’s especially lovely in the morning when the streets are quieter and the light is soft.
We’re a full-service Paris portrait photography studio.
Our team helps you plan your session, guides you through the photoshoot, and welcomes you back to the studio for a same-day portrait viewing and ordering appointment.
You’ll be able to select your favorite photographs and explore our collection of custom wall art and fine art albums.
You can also find more information about booking, preparation, and artwork on our Paris photography FAQ page.
Ready to Plan Your Own Paris Couples Photoshoot?
Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, documenting your life together, or simply want beautiful photographs with your favorite person (and your favorite dog!), we’d LOVE to meet you.
You don’t need a special occasion. And you definitely don’t need to have your entire photoshoot planned out.
That’s what we’re here for!
At Katie Donnelly Photography, we’ll help you create a relaxed, personal Paris portrait experience from start to finish.
From the first planning emails to the final artwork in your home, our team will be there to guide you.
Let’s create something beautiful together.
Get in touch with Katie Donnelly Photography to plan your Paris photoshoot.
