Knowing when it’s time to let go of your dog and finding peace after

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Saying goodbye to a beloved dog is one of the hardest things we face as pet owners. They give us unconditional love for years, and when the time comes to make decisions about their comfort and dignity, it can feel overwhelming.

How to know it's time

Dogs are experts at hiding pain. But as they age, there are signs to watch for:

  • They stop enjoying the things they once loved

  • Pain or illness becomes hard to manage

  • They struggle with basic tasks like eating or walking

  • Good days become fewer and farther between

If you’re constantly wondering whether they’re still happy, that may be the sign you’re looking for. Euthanasia isn’t giving up; it’s giving peace when life becomes more struggle than joy.

Why you might feel relieved

After saying goodbye, some people feel a quiet relief. No more medication routines. No more watching them suffer. That relief can feel wrong, but it’s not. You were carrying a heavy emotional load. Feeling lighter is part of the healing. It doesn’t mean you didn’t love them. It means you cared deeply.

Grieve without shame

You gave your dog a good life and a loving goodbye. Let yourself grieve in whatever way feels right. Talk about them, remember them, and be kind to yourself. The love you shared is still there. It always will be.

Woman with senior dog in a field for a rainbow bridge session.
Rainbow Bridge Session with a senior dog and his parents.

Book one last photoshoot: I call this one the rainbow bridge session

Before you say goodbye, consider giving yourself one last gift: a photoshoot with your dog. It’s a way to honor their life, capture the bond you share, and create a beautiful memory to hold onto. Even if your dog is older or sick, those final images often become the most meaningful.

Because I know how difficult it is to make this decision, I offer gentle, in-home or outdoor sessions just for this stage of life.

Happy National Dog Day!

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Every year on August 26, dog lovers across the nation pause to celebrate man’s best friend. National Dog Day isn’t just an excuse to shower your pup with extra treats, it’s a day to recognize the joy, comfort, and companionship dogs bring to our lives but to also to raise awareness about the many dogs in need of a loving home.

When the car ride hits just right.

When the car ride hits just right.

This is how we celebrate National Dog Day.

A Little History

National Dog Day was founded in 2004 by animal advocate Colleen Paige. The date holds special meaning: it’s the day Paige’s family adopted her first dog when she was just 10 years old. Since then, the celebration has grown into a national event, supported by shelters, rescue organizations, and pet lovers everywhere.


Why Dogs Deserve Their Day

Dogs are more than just pets. They are:

  • Loyal companions who never judge you.

  • Unwavering protectors, alerting you to everything from intruders to the suspicious squirrel in the backyard.

  • Mood boosters, offering love and laughter in even the hardest times.

  • Everyday heroes, from service dogs to search-and-rescue teams.


How to Celebrate National Dog Day

Whether you have a dog or just love them from afar, there are countless ways to join the celebration:

  1. Adopt, Don’t Shop: Visit your local shelter and consider adopting a furry friend in need.

  2. Volunteer Your Time: Shelters always need extra hands for walking, cleaning, and socializing with the animals.

  3. Spoil Your Pup: Bake homemade dog treats, take a long nature walk, or buy them a new toy.

  4. Support Dog Charities: Donate money, food, or supplies to rescue organizations.

  5. Spread the Word: Share photos and adoption stories on social media using the hashtag #NationalDogDay.


The Deeper Meaning

While National Dog Day is full of joy, it also shines a light on the sobering reality that millions of dogs enter shelters each year. This holiday is a gentle reminder to advocate for animal welfare, promote spaying and neutering, don’t support brands that still test on animals, and don’t buy your puppy from a backyard breeder.

 

Let’s celebrate the simple things

Dogs remind us daily of the simple pleasures: chasing a ball, napping in the sun, greeting someone at the door like they’ve been gone for years. On National Dog Day, let’s return the favor: give them love, kindness, and the care they deserve.

Book a session for you and your dog today to capture the deep bond you have built with your heart dog.

 

Big Announcement and want your pup to be included?

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Can you keep a secret?? ABSOLUTELY.

You have an announcement you want photographed AND YOU WANT YOUR DOG INCLUDED? I can help with that.

Over the years I have had the honor to be one of the very first people to find out about families growing!!! There is nothing quite like standing behind the camera knowing I am capturing a moment that has not been shared with the world yet.

Why your dog should be included

Your pup is already part of the family so it makes sense they would be part of this next chapter. Whether it is a "Big Brother" bandana, a framed ultrasound at their paws, or just their natural goofy grin, dogs bring a layer of warmth, joy, and authenticity you cannot stage.

How I help you keep it top secret

When you trust me with your pregnancy announcement you are trusting me with a big piece of your story. That is not something I take lightly.

Here is how we keep things hush-hush until the big reveal:

  • Private Planning – No spoilers in emails, texts, or calendars. Your session title stays neutral.

  • Discreet Shooting – Props are hidden until it is time for the magic moment.

  • Safe Editing – Your gallery is private

The joy of being in on the secret

It is such a special privilege to see your excitement before anyone else, to watch the way your dog reacts to the setup, and to know I am capturing the exact image you will use to share your joy with friends and family. Every time the announcement finally goes public I am grinning from ear to ear, cheering for you from behind the scenes.

So, got a secret, a pup, and a life changing announcement to share?

Let’s make it happen. Your story deserves to be told exactly how you imagine it and I will keep it safe until the moment is right.

And if you are interested in seeing more of the photos from the galleries featured in this blog post, you can find the first one right here and the one with the most hilarious doodles right here

Why you and your dog should sign up for a mini session

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Let’s talk about mini sessions. These sessions are short, sweet, and full of real-life moments that matter most.

These aren’t the kind of sessions where everyone needs to be perfectly groomed, dressed up, or filtered into a version of themselves that doesn’t exist on a Tuesday afternoon. These are for you and your dog exactly as you are.

Atlanta Dog Photographer capturing client with dog staring off into the sunset.
Black and white image of German Shepherd with owner in big field.

  • Bad haircut? Not a problem.

  • Just came from the vet with a bald spot? Honestly, that’s part of the story.

  • Dog rolled in wet grass on the way to the shoot? Good. That’s just how it is.

What I love most is capturing your bond, not your “look.” Your dog doesn’t care if your hair is messy or if their tail is a little wild today. What matters is you’re together, and that’s the heart of every photo.

These mini sessions are about freezing that feeling in time:

  • The way they lean into you.

  • The goofy grin after a zoom.

  • The everyday gear that years from now will bring you back to this exact season of life.

Photos don’t need to be perfect to be powerful. They just need to be true.

So if you’ve been thinking:

“We’re not ready…” or “Let’s wait until they’re groomed…”

Don’t wait. Life’s already happening. Your dog is already showing up just as they are. And I promise, that’s more than enough.

Let’s make some real, honest, joy-filled memories.

Sign up for your mini session today.

Front Porch Sessions: Capturing love right where you are

Not every dog is a “hop in the car and let’s go” kind of pup. Some are senior sweethearts with creaky joints. Others are reactive and feel safest in their own space. And you know what? That’s totally okay.

Atlanta Dog Photographer capturing moments with family and their dogs on their front porch.
Atlanta Dog Photographer capturing moments with family and their dogs on their front porch.

That’s why I offer Front Porch Sessions. These sessions are relaxed and heart-centered happening right where you and your dog feel most at ease: your front porch, your backyard, your own little, happy bubble.

No car rides. No unfamiliar parks or new smells to navigate. No added stress for your pup or for anyone else involved.

Instead, we’ll meet where the light hits just right in the morning or afternoon. Think slow, gentle moments with your dog resting their head on your lap while you sip your morning coffee. The steam rising from your mug, the sound of birds in the background, and your pup soaking in the sun at your feet. It’s the quiet, simple start to the day we all enjoy the most.

These sessions are ideal for:

  • Reactive dogs who feel overwhelmed in busy places

  • Senior pups who don’t move like they used to

  • Any dog-parent duo who finds joy in the slow, everyday moments

We’re not chasing perfect poses. We’re capturing real connection.

Because sometimes, the most beautiful photos come from the places we feel most ourselves.

Atlanta Dog Photographer capturing moments with family and their dogs on their front porch.

Interested in booking a Front Porch Session? Let’s make it happen. Whether it’s a lazy coffee morning or golden-hour snuggles, all we need is your dog, your porch, and your love. I’ll take care of the rest.

Let’s celebrate your dog’s story right where you are.

Book your session today and let your neighbors know, too. We’ll make it a whole little neighborhood affair ;).

Your best friend is already waiting for you

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Atlanta's dog shelters are overflowing and that leads to a heartbreaking reality for countless dogs desperate for a loving home. This isn't just a statistic; it's a crisis impacting innocent lives daily.

My purpose is simple:

to photograph shelter dogs, helping them get a second chance at life.

A single, compelling photograph can transform a dog from "just another shelter dog" into a cherished family member. My lens aims to capture their unique spirit, making them shine in crowded kennels and stand out in adoption listings.

 
 

This mission thrives on collaboration. I partner with incredible local organizations like Paulding County Animal Shelter, LifeLine Animal Project, Cobb County Animal Shelter, and The Ozzie Albies Foundation. They're on the front lines, providing care and tirelessly seeking homes.

I work alongside the dedicated volunteers who pour their hearts into these shelters daily. Their compassion truly inspires me.

The pictures you see here were all taken with the incredible help of Clover Rescue Enrichment Partners who brought their flower crowns, tutus and all kinds of other, hopefully scroll-stopping accessories that will hopefully help to catch some attention, and most importantly the attention of someone who is looking to adopt an amazing dog from yet another overcrowded shelter.

Shining a light on this problem is crucial. We need to raise awareness about the urgency of the Atlanta shelter crisis. It's about promoting responsible pet ownership, advocating for spay/neuter programs, and, most importantly, urging everyone to adopt, not shop. Every adoption saves a life and creates space for another dog in need.

Whether you foster, adopt, donate, volunteer, or simply share these stories, every act of kindness helps.

Together, we can give more Atlanta dogs the second chance and loving homes they so desperately deserve.

 

The Office litter is looking for their forever homes

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If you have ever thought about adding a puppy to your family, now is the time. If you have not, I would appreciate it if you shared these precious pups who are currently all placed with foster homes. The Ozzie Albies Foundation is doing a phenomenal job finding the perfect families for rescue and shelter dogs.

They had this to say about these sweet puppies and the amazing support network of people chipping in:

This weekend was a huge one for The Office Litter.

Mouse and her 6 puppies, at just 8 weeks old and already almost bigger than her, made their way from Cobbtown, GA to the Mirror Image K9 Center where they officially joined our Best Chance Program.

It certainly takes a village and the most compassionate, dedicated one at that.

Donna who rescued Mouse and her babies and selflessly fostered all SEVEN of them for over 8 weeks, your heart and strength are unmatched.

Kate who coordinated every piece of this transport with so much love and care, you always make the impossible possible. She also makes sure every adopter is set up with absolutely everything they might need for their little foster puppy, from food, to toys, to leashes, crates and beds.

The amazing transport angels Cindy & Ben, Nancy & Mike, thank you for giving your time and hearts to get this crew to the center.

And Mirror Image K9 whose owners and trainers truly pour their soul into building and supporting this program and making sure every dog truly gets their best chance, thank you for dreaming bigger for them.

The litter was welcomed by a whole team of helpers at the Mirror Image K9 Center who helped with everything from coordinating photos, microchipping to cleaning puppies and crates. It seriously takes a whole bunch of capable helpers to make rescue intake days a success.

And thank you of course, to our amazing, incredible, and selfless fosters, thank you for stepping up and making this entire rescue mission possible. You are the heartbeat of every second chance.

This is what rescue looks like.

This is what love in action feels like.

And we are so, so grateful.

And if you want to adopt, this is the form to fill out.

Do You Photograph Cats? Yes... But It Depends

In ancient times cats were worshipped as gods; they have not forgotten this.

May I introduce to you: Lulu with her summer cut.

Every now and then I get this question: "Do you photograph cats too?" The short answer is yes, but with a little hesitation.

Cats, as anyone who has spent time with them knows, can be a bit more unpredictable than dogs. While dogs are usually eager to please, cats prefer to follow their own rules. If your kitty spends most of the day hiding under the bed and avoiding people, a photoshoot might not be the best idea.

On the other hand, if your cat is anything like Lulu, confident, curious, and always ready to be the center of attention, then the answer is a definite HELL YEAH! Cats with big personalities who enjoy being in the spotlight make fantastic photo subjects, and I love working with them.

So yes, I do photograph cats, especially the ones who love to show off.

Want to see this with music? Click here!

Ashley & Toby’s Graduation Session: A celebration of loyalty

When Ashley graduated, she knew exactly who she wanted by her side for the big moment. Not classmates. Not extended family. Just her loyal best friend: Toby.

Toby has been Ashley’s ride or die for years. Through late-night study sessions, tough days, and quiet victories, he was always there. So when it came time to capture her graduation, it only made sense that Toby was part of it.

To make the day extra special, Ashley booked a local Sniffspot so Toby could run free and enjoy himself. The moments were candid, honest, and full of love.

This session wasn't just about a diploma. It was about celebrating the unshakable bond between a girl and her dog, and the journey they took together.

Congratulations, Ashley and Toby. You made it, together. Here are a few more pictures.

Woody, Dennis, and a baby on the way

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The first time I photographed Woody and Dennis, Dennis had just been adopted from the Ozzie Albies Foundation. He was a little timid but curious and surprisingly comfortable in front of the camera. Since then, I’ve been lucky enough to photograph these two doodle boys and their amazing humans every single year. And with each year, Dennis and Woody just become more and more funny.

This session was something truly special.

I was invited to help announce the sweetest news: a new baby is on the way. And of course, Woody and Dennis were included. These boys have been part of so many moments already, and it only made sense for them to help share such a joyful one.

Capturing these memories with familiar furry faces and a growing family made it all feel full circle. I’m so honored they continue to trust me with their most meaningful milestones.

You can also follow these two funny guys and their mom on Instagram: @ohemgeeitswoodyandd

One last beautiful moment: Why some sessions just stay with me

Lately, the sessions I’ve photographed have carried a little more weight. Not in gear or logistics, but in emotion.

Several of the people who’ve reached out to me recently did so after getting some tough news from the vet. Diagnoses of cancer, signs of aging that feel impossible to ignore, or the quiet reality that their dog is starting to slow down in a way that feels final.

These sessions stick with me.

Not because they’re sad, although they are, but because they are also full of something even deeper. Love.

When we meet, there is often a quiet understanding that this might be the last session they have with their dog. I make sure we take our time for the dog to settle in and get comfortable with me before we start the session. There are no expectations, there is no pressure. Just space for cloudy eyes, wobbly legs, and tired bodies who somehow still find the strength for one more adventure, one more Golden Hour moment, one more belly rub, one more moment with their person. What stays with me most is the devotion. We fully commit to your dog’s tempo, which might be oh so super slow, and that is absolutely fine.

Dogs who are clearly tired, who might not chase a ball anymore, still sit beside their human and give them everything they have. The soft lean, the nose nuzzle, the look that says, "I'm still here. I love you." These sessions remind me why I do this.

Not for perfect photos, not for social media, but for the quiet in-between moments.

The way a hand cradles a greying muzzle, the way a dog rests their head in their person’s lap like they’ve done a thousand times before, the way time seems to slow down, just a little, as if the universe is giving them both a small gift.

If you’ve been thinking about booking a session and wondering if it’s too late, let me gently say this.

If your dog is still here, there is still time. Time to celebrate them, time to honor what they have given you, time to create something you’ll hold onto forever.

I’m here when you’re ready.

With patience, empathy, and so much love for the dog who has been your everything.

The quiet treasure of a dog

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black and white image of dog parent with dog going for a walk in a park.

There are few treasures in life as quietly profound as the love of a dog.

They don’t ask for much. Just your presence, your patience, and a moment of your time. In return, they offer everything: loyalty without conditions, joy without explanation, and comfort without words. A dog doesn’t need to speak for you to understand them. They’re fluent in looks, tail wags, head tilts, and warm sighs at your feet.

When you’re with a dog, life slows down. Because that’s how they move through the world. They stop to sniff, to explore, to notice the wind in the grass and the sunlight dancing on a puddle. They remind us that it's okay, even necessary, to pause. To be curious. To be. They don’t rush. They don’t multitask. They live in the moment and invite us to do the same.

There’s a kind of magic in the way a dog greets you when you come home. Their tail is wagging, their eyes are bright, and they bring you a toy like a peace offering or a celebration. It’s impossible not to smile. And that small moment, just a tail wag or a nuzzle, can shift the entire weight of your day. A simple belly rub becomes a two-way act of healing. Their joy becomes yours.

But every dog lover knows a heartbreak is waiting to happen. One day, the wagging tail is no longer waiting by the door. The leash hangs still. The absence is enormous. The silence is deafening. And while we never exchanged words, their voice in our life is suddenly gone.

Yet even in that grief, dogs leave behind something remarkable. A deeper capacity for love. And a heart that knows, despite the pain, it’s worth doing again.

Because somewhere, in a shelter across town or across the country, there is a dog waiting. A dog who is already perfect in their own imperfect way. A dog who wants to walk slowly through life with you, one step at a time. Who will bring you their toy like it’s the greatest gift they have. Who will wait for you, every day, just to come home.

They are not just animals. They are companions. Teachers. Healers. Mirrors. And if we are lucky, they are with us just long enough to show us what it really means to be present and to love fully without needing words.

Dogs are not just our pets. They are our greatest treasure.

And somewhere, your next treasure may be waiting for you.

The stories I strive to tell with every session

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After puppy shoots, I often get a message from the client apologizing for the chaos. Guess what? That is the kind of chaos I absolutely love. It’s part of the puppy stage and it is absolutely not possible to have a perfectly well behaved puppy in front of the camera for about 40 minutes. Who really likes perfect anyway?

There is something really beautiful about watching a dog grow. From the moment they arrive in our lives as tiny, often clumsy, bundles of fur to the quiet dignity of their senior years, each stage is a unique chapter in a beautiful, heartfelt story. It's a journey filled with boundless energy, unwavering loyalty, and unconditional love. And for me, it's a story I'm dedicated to telling, one photograph at a time.

Think back to those early days. The sleepy puppy cuddles that felt like the purest form of bliss. The tiny yawns, the soft fur, the way they'd fall asleep in your arms. I’m also not ashamed to say that I love nothing more than puppy breath and the soft, often naked belly of a puppy. Then, almost overnight, that little furball transforms into a whirlwind of playful zooms. The boundless energy, the awkward leaps, the discovery of their own voice through happy, high-pitched barks and playful growls. This is the stage of curiosity, antics, and the joy of watching them explore the world with wide-eyed wonder.

As they mature, dogs settle into adulthood, their personalities start to fully bloom, and they are slowly becoming the steadfast companions we rely on. They understand our routines, anticipate our moods, and offer a comforting presence without a single word. While the puppy zooms might become less frequent, their capacity for joy and play remains. They're still up for an adventure, a long walk, or a fast game of fetch, but often with a newfound grace and understanding. This is where their true character shines, a unique blend of their puppy past and their experienced present.

And then, perhaps the most poignant stage: the tender beauty of their senior years. The gray hairs start to appear, dusting their muzzle. Their gait might slow, their naps become longer, and the signs of a life well-lived become beautifully evident. There's a particular warmth in their gaze, a deep contentment that comes from years of companionship. Every gentle nudge, every slow tail wag, every quiet moment of rest by your side becomes even more precious. It's a testament to the incredible bond you've built, a quiet acknowledgment of shared memories and enduring love.

My Purpose: Telling Their Story

Every one of these stages is a gift, a unique set of memories to cherish. My purpose is to capture these moments, to freeze time and preserve the essence of your dog's journey. From the playful energy of youth to the serene wisdom of old age, I aim to create images that reflect the love, joy, and unique spirit of your furry family member.

What's your favorite memory from one of your dog's life stages? I'd love to hear it in the comments below!

Partnering with Good Dog Veterinary Care

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I recently had the pleasure of partnering with Good Dog Veterinary Services for another special photo session. We captured their amazing vets in action, checking teeth, paws, eyes, and everything in between.

It was amazing to see how gentle and caring the team is with every dog. From routine checkups to those sweet in-between moments, you can truly see the trust between the vets and their patients.

And yes, there were thankfully plenty of dogs involved (because we all know, if there weren’t, I wouldn’t be doing it :D). I was lucky to photograph some adorable pups during their visits and highlight the incredible care they received.

You will see loads of the hundreds of pictures we took on the Good Dog Instagram feed and if your dog needs a vet who treats them like family, Good Dog Veterinary Services is the place to go. I highly recommend them!!

These moments deserve more than just a screen

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Why You Should Print Your Dog’s Photos (and Not Just Post Them)

I get it, we live in a digital world. Most of us are used to scrolling through photos on our phones, sharing them on Instagram, and saving them to the cloud. And while those digital memories are great to have, there’s something really powerful about seeing your dog’s face, personality, and quirks printed and framed in your home.

Here’s why printing your photos matters, and why I always encourage it after your session.

These Moments Deserve More Than a Screen

Your dog isn’t just “part of the family.” In many ways, they are your family. They’ve been with you through moves, breakups, late-night tears, and early morning joy. The way they look at you, the way they lean into you, the little things that make them them, those moments are too important to be buried in a photo folder or stuck in a phone you’ll eventually upgrade.

Printing your photos gives those memories the space and presence they deserve.

Prints Make It Real

There’s something grounding about holding a physical photo in your hands or seeing it on your wall every day. It’s not just a reminder of your dog, it’s a reminder of your bond, your story, and that exact moment in time.

Whether it’s a framed portrait, an album you flip through, or a few prints scattered around your home, printed photos create a lasting connection that digital files just can’t replicate.

Technology Changes. Prints Don’t.

Think about how many times you’ve changed phones, computers, or even photo apps. Digital files can get lost, corrupted, or forgotten. But a printed photo? That stays. Decades from now, when you or someone you love is flipping through that album, they won’t need a password or an update. They’ll just see the face of the dog that meant the world to you.

It’s Part of the Experience

When you book a session, it’s not just about “getting photos.” It’s about celebrating the relationship you have with your dog. The session itself is meaningful but the images deserve to live somewhere beyond your phone.

That’s why I offer high-quality, thoughtfully chosen print options, so you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Let’s Make It Tangible

Your dog’s story is worth more than a digital file. It’s worth telling, displaying, and remembering in the most tangible way possible. So yes, share those photos online. But then print them. Frame them. Flip through them years from now and feel everything all over again.

Ready to create something that lasts? Let’s talk about prints after your session. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Bruna, a modern day hero (of mine)

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I don’t know when exactly I started following Bruna on Instagram but her account is one I follow religiously and it has also shown that sharing her stories and reels is helping the precious souls she highlights. Bruna is a volunteer at Cobb County Animal Shelter and introduces each dog she cares for. She talks about their background, what they are like and who would be a great owner for them. I wanted to know more about her and what made her decide to become a volunteer at the shelter.
Please read and share with all your dog lovers who might be interested in giving back by volunteering at their local shelter. Also, please follow Bruna on Instagram and share her posts so the pups can get another chance to find their person.

Follow Bruna here

How long have you been volunteering? 

I started volunteering on July of 2023, so it has been almost 2 years now.

What led you to volunteer at the shelter? 

I grew up in Brazil. There are A LOT of strays there. When I was a kid, I was always trying to play with them, feed, and sometimes even try to sneak them into my home (oops lol). My parents would always give me that look, and try to explain to me that I can’t just bring all the dogs home sometimes they would let me keep one or two, and for the ones I couldn’t keep I would try to find them new homes!! So I have always had dogs growing up. For the longest time, I thought I wanted to be a veterinarian, because that was the only job I could think of that involved animals. But when I got older, I realized I didn’t want to do surgeries, vaccines, medical things…I wanted to help in a different way.                                                                 

My first contact with adoption was on the Cobb shelter. It was a really tough day. There were SO many dogs in need. One dog caught my eye, he was sitting in a corner, with his head down, and just looking really sad. That’s Gustavo (he is a pointer mix). We had to take him home with us. The moment he walked through the door, he was a complete different dog, he was so happy, energetic, and excited. He was only 1 year old, and it looked like he immediately knew he was safe with us, he made sure to make himself right at home lol. Then, about two years ago, I finally decided to start volunteering there at that same shelter. At first, I signed up but kept hesitating. I was scared it would be too sad, because I knew some animals might not make it. I knew it could break my heart. But then I thought, “This is going to happen whether I want it or not. I can either show up, be there with them, give them love and make a difference in their lives, or I can just stay home and pretend I don’t know about it” So I went — and honestly, it was the best decision I ever made!

What is the best part and what is the hardest part? 

The best part is believing that I am giving them quality time while they wait for their forever home. It’s also great getting to know each dog’s personality, make them feel loved, seeing a really scared dog open up to you and of course, seeing them walk through those doors with their new families. 

The hardest part is definitely losing dogs. Knowing that an incredible, healthy, young, and happy dog was euthanized because of space. 

How can people best support you and the shelter dogs?

The best way to support is definitely by raising awareness about the situation. Going to the shelter, seeing with your own eyes what is happening. Share posts, educate people. And if you can, volunteer! The animals rely on us to go on their daily walks, we are the only interaction they have with people, we are the best part of their day. But if you can’t volunteer, you can share the videos I post of them, so they can be seen and reach as many people as we can and hopefully save their lives! I believe there is a person out there for every single dog! Some people will see a dog on a video, and for any reason immediately identify with him. Sometimes even out of state, they drive for hours to adopt a dog that they have never even seen in person, just on a video.

Is there anything else you want to get off your chest and are comfortable sharing?

I believe that as long as human beings can’t love one another, they won’t be able to fully love animals or nature …

Engagement shoot including the coolest dog

Rambo is THIRTEEN… I couldn’t believe it because seeing him and how fit and good looking he is. He also did not act like a senior dog. He showed us when he was done by just walking himself out of the session with leash in mouth :D.

Stacey and Craig are newly engaged and asked to have a session with Rambo since he can’t be at their wedding.

Goodbye isn’t the end: the importance of Rainbow Bridge Sessions

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Over the last few years, I have met incredible dogs who have been with their guardians for years and years. Some of these sessions weren’t necessarily Rainbow Bridge Sessions, but solely sessions to celebrate and capture the bond dog and human had built over the years.

One day our dogs run beside us on trail and just a little while later we notice the graying muzzle, the slower steps, the longer naps in their favorite sunny spot. These changes can feel bittersweet, a constant reminder that time is moving forward. But they are also a testament to the life and love you’ve shared.

Rainbow Bridge Sessions are not about saying goodbye. They are about honoring a journey, celebrating a bond, capturing the essence of a dog who has walked through life with you through joy, heartbreak, and everything in between.

Why These Sessions Matter

Photographing a senior or terminally ill dog is one of the most emotional and meaningful experiences I get to be part of. These sessions are not rushed or overly posed. They are gentle, intentional, and centered on comfort.

They matter because they help freeze time, even if only for a moment.

For many dog parents, it is a way to process grief before it fully arrives. It is a chance to remember their dog not just as they are now, but as they have always been: loyal, loving, and irreplaceable.

Senior dog looking lovingly up at his dog parent.
Senior dog in the arms of their mom.

What to Expect during a Rainbow Bridge Session

These sessions are designed with empathy and flexibility. Here is what they often include:

  • A calm and quiet environment. We go at your dog’s pace, allowing them to rest, move, or cuddle as they need.

  • Candid, heartfelt moments. Whether it is a paw in your lap, a gentle gaze, or a lick on your cheek, those little moments speak volumes.

  • You in the frame. You have shared a lifetime together. I always encourage dog parents to be part of the session. This is your story, too.

  • No pressure. No expectations. Some dogs nap the entire time. Some want to play. However they show up, that is exactly who we will capture.


A Legacy of Love

These photos are more than keepsakes. They are a way to continue the story, to remember the joy, the personality, the connection.

Clients often tell me they return to these portraits not just during grief, but during quiet moments of reflection. They become a source of comfort. A visual reminder that love like this never truly leaves.

If You Are Considering a Rainbow Bridge Session…

You do not have to wait until the very end. If your dog is slowing down or if you have received difficult news, we can schedule a session that fits your needs. I will work with you to make it as peaceful and meaningful as possible.

And most importantly, please know this is a space filled with compassion, patience, and understanding. There will be time for tears. There will be time for laughter. And there will always be time for love.

Because goodbye is not the end. It is the beginning of remembering.

Senior Great Dane standing in a green field.