A Golden Afternoon at Sea Point: A Heartfelt Pet Photography Session in Cape Town

Ashley Chapman
Dec 5
3 min read

There are some shoots that feel like pure magic from the very first click of the shutter—and my recent session with Amy, her partner, and their two adorable dogs at Sea Point was exactly that. As a pet photographer in Cape Town, I’ve learned to navigate everything from moody clouds to gale-force winds, because Cape Town weather has a personality all on its own. But every now and then, the city gifts us something extraordinary: golden sunshine, calm air, and a coastline that seems to hold its breath in the soft glow of late afternoon.

This was one of those rare, perfect days. And it couldn’t have arrived at a better time.

A Location That Never Disappoints

We started our adventure along the Sea Point Promenade, a place that has become a favourite not only for locals but for anyone who appreciates Cape Town’s blend of city energy and natural beauty. The promenade gives us everything—lush greenery, modern architecture, and the gentle sound of the ocean in the background. It’s vibrant, it’s iconic, and it’s always full of life.

As Amy and her partner arrived with Louis and Jimmy Chew, the scene instantly came alive. Dogs trotting proudly, tails wagging, tongues hanging joyfully in the warm sunshine—this session already promised to be something special. The absence of Cape Town’s usual winds made the environment peaceful and relaxed, and that calmness translated so beautifully into the images.

Louis: The Gentle Golden Soul

Every pet has a story, a personality, and a presence—and Louis brought such softness to the experience. As the firstborn, he carried himself with a kind of quiet wisdom, almost as if he knew the purpose of the session and was ready to help make it perfect. His golden coat caught the sunlight in the most breath-taking way, shimmering softly with every movement.

When Louis looked up at Amy or leaned gently against her partner’s leg, you could see the bond that only years of love and companionship can create. These moments—the subtle ones—are the reason I adore pet photography in Cape Town. Behind every family is a story worth preserving.

Jimmy Chew: The Star of the Show

Jimmy Chew, on the other hand, arrived with a mission: to shine. And shine he DID! Jimmy had no hesitation stepping straight into the spotlight. Every tilt of his head, every spark in his eyes, every playful bounce made the camera fall in love with him all over again.

He posed effortlessly, almost like he’d been practicing for weeks. Whether he was sitting proudly in Amy’s arms or trotting confidently along the promenade, he exuded personality from every angle. Jimmy is the kind of dog that keeps a smile on everyone’s face—and capturing that spark was an absolute joy.

The Sweet Harmony of a Pet Family

What made this shoot especially heart-warming was watching how the boys interacted with each other. Louis’s calm, steady presence balanced Jimmy’s bubbly, playful energy. Together, they created the perfect dynamic—one that mirrors so many pet families in Cape Town. Pets aren’t just companions; they’re personalities, siblings, and little souls who fill a home with laughter and light.

Throughout the session, Amy and her partner shared moments of genuine connection—laughing when Jimmy tried to “steal the scene,” reaching down to give Louis gentle chin scratches, and exchanging warm smiles as they soaked in the peaceful afternoon. These candid interactions are the heart of what I love to photograph.

Ending the Shoot at Sea Point Beachfront

As the sun drifted lower, we made our way down to the beach front—a location that feels like its own kind of paradise. The rock formations, the soft sand, and the shimmering waves created a dreamy atmosphere that felt calm and intimate.

With the ocean stretching out behind them and that golden glow deepening by the minute, the session reached a stunning finale. Louis and Jimmy sat close to their humans, content and completely in the moment. These final frames captured the warm essence of Cape Town evenings—peaceful, timeless, and full of quiet beauty.

Being a Cape Town pet photographer means stepping into families’ lives for a moment—just long enough to witness the love they share and honour it through images. This session reminded me why I am so passionate about what I do. The perfect weather, the loving couple, the unforgettable personalities of Louis and Jimmy, and the iconic setting of Sea Point all came together to create a gallery filled with warmth, joy, and authenticity.

It wasn’t just a photoshoot. It was a celebration of companionship, happiness, and the simple magic of being together.

If you’re looking to book your own pet photography session in Cape Town—whether along the Sea Point Promenade, your favourite hiking trail, or one of the city’s breath-taking beaches—I’d be honoured to help you capture your story.