Why We Don’t Offer Mini Sessions with Live Animals—And Why You Should Think Twice

Why We Don’t Offer Mini Sessions with Live Animals—And Why You Should Think Twice

Every spring, social media floods with adorable images of kids cuddling fluffy bunnies and tiny chicks in Easter-themed mini sessions. While these photos are undeniably cute, there’s a serious conversation to be had about the legal, ethical, and financial risks of using live animals in photography sessions.

At Stag & Bird Photo, we’ve made the decision not to offer sessions with live animals, and here’s why:

1. It’s Often Illegal (Or Requires Expensive Permits & Licenses)

Many states and municipalities have strict regulations about handling and displaying live animals for commercial purposes. Depending on where you live, you may need special permits, USDA licensing, or proof of proper animal care standards—all of which are expensive and time-consuming to obtain.

Photographers who don’t follow these laws—whether knowingly or unknowingly—could face fines, legal trouble, and potential business liability issues. If a client’s child gets scratched, bitten, or sick from handling an animal? That’s a lawsuit waiting to happen.

2. It’s Not Safe for Kids or Animals

As cute as bunnies and chicks are, they’re not toys. These are fragile animals that stress easily, especially when handled by small children who may not know how to be gentle. Rabbits, for instance, have delicate spines that can break if they’re mishandled or dropped—even accidentally.

On the flip side, scared animals may scratch, bite, or carry bacteria like Salmonella, putting children at risk of infection. A single unexpected movement from a child can lead to an injured or traumatized animal, making the session more harmful than heartwarming.

3. Ethical Responsibility: These Are Living Creatures, Not Props

Sadly, many animals used in photography sessions are sourced from hatcheries or pet stores with little regard for their well-being. Once Easter is over, countless bunnies and chicks are abandoned, rehomed, or worse—dumped outdoors, where they can’t survive.

Professional, ethical animal handlers do exist and work hard to ensure their animals are properly cared for in controlled environments. But hiring these experts (legally) comes at a cost—one that must be built into the session price. If a photographer is offering a cheap mini session with live animals, ask yourself:

- Where are these animals coming from?

- Are they being properly cared for?

- What happens to them after the sessions end?

What’s the Alternative?

We love a whimsical springtime session just as much as anyone, and there are plenty of creative ways to achieve that aesthetic without live animals:

- Stuffed bunnies & chicks: Soft, adorable, and totally stress-free.

- Floral or nature-inspired setups: Bright, beautiful, and timeless.

- Digital composites: Many photographers can create *magic* with post-processing, adding in animals digitally.

- Sanctioned petting zoos & farms: If you really want animals involved, work with licensed professionals who specialize in ethical animal experiences.

Final Thoughts: Think Before You Book (Or Offer) These Sessions

If you’re a photographer, we strongly encourage you to research your state’s regulations and obtain the proper permits before considering live animal sessions. The reality is, legal and ethical compliance isn’t cheap—so if you’re doing it the *right* way, the cost of these sessions will reflect that.

If you’re a client, we urge you to think twice before booking a session with live animals. Ask your photographer about their licensing, safety protocols, and what happens to the animals after the sessions end. Or better yet—consider an alternative that doesn’t put animals or children at risk.

At the end of the day, photography should be about capturing joy—not causing harm. Let’s keep the cuteness cruelty-free.