Why I’m choosing not to offer holiday setups

Every year around the holidays, I see all the cozy setups popping up with the twinkle lights, plaid blankets, Christmas trees, and families sitting on couches with their dogs. And while those setups are beautiful and festive, they don’t feel like me. When I meet you and your dog, we are moving. We are walking down grassy trails either into the woods or into open fields. My favorite sessions include the sentence ‘go frolic with your dog’ and I want you to just walk or run into the field, enjoying time with your heart dog.

I’ve realized that I’m not drawn to photographing people and their dogs in front of the same styled backdrop. Because the truth is your connection with your dog is one of a kind. It deserves more than a scene that’s been recreated hundreds of times before.

When I photograph you and your heart dog, I want to tell your story, not the story of a holiday card. I want to capture the real, honest moments that happen between you two. The quiet ones, the tiny ones, the ones that often go unnoticed but mean everything. Maybe it’s the way your dog’s paw rests on your hand, or the soft, knowing look in their eyes when they find you across the field. Maybe it’s that moment of laughter as they bound through tall grass, or the peace that settles in when they just sit close to you.

Those are the kinds of moments that are not staged or posed, they’re real and they tell the story of a bond that’s been built over years of love, trust, and time spent together.

So this year, instead of creating holiday setups, I’ll be focusing on capturing what truly matters and that is the authentic connection you share with your dog. Whether that’s out in nature, wandering your favorite trail, or at home where your hearts feel most at ease, I want your photos to reflect your story, just as it is.

Because one day, when you look back at these images, I don’t want you to remember props between Christmas trees while stiffly posed, I want you to remember the bond with your special heart dog.

Why testimonials & reviews mean the world to a small business (and a little Thank You at the end ;))

Running a small business is about more than just offering a service. It is about building trust, connection, and community. As a dog photographer, I pour my heart into capturing your pup’s personality, joy, and quirks so you will have keepsakes you will treasure forever. Beyond the photos themselves, there is something that helps my business thrive more than you might realize: your testimonials and Google reviews.

Why Reviews Matter So Much

When people are searching for a photographer, especially for something as personal as their most loyal companions, they rely heavily on the experiences of others. Google reviews help new clients see what it is really like to work with me, from booking and communication to the session itself and the final photos.

Here is why your words make such a big difference:

• Trust builder: Honest feedback helps potential clients feel confident in choosing me.

• Community support: Reviews show that you are not just investing in a service, you are supporting a small, local business.

• Better visibility: The more reviews a business has, the more likely it is to appear in search results. This means more pet parents can find me!

A Heartfelt Thank You

To everyone who has already taken the time to leave a review, thank you. Every kind word means so much and helps me continue doing what I love. Your support allows me to keep creating beautiful and timeless moments for families like yours.

A Little Extra Incentive

If we have worked together before and you leave a Google review by October 22, you will be entered into a raffle for a Chewy gift card. This is just a small way for me to give back to you and your pup.

I will be announcing the winner in my newsletter on October 23.

If you have not already, I would love for you to share your experience. It only takes a few minutes, but the impact lasts a lifetime.

Thank you for helping me grow!!!

A little magic with a girl and her puppy

There’s something timeless about the bond between a child and her puppy. And the best photos don’t come from posing. Simply letting these two be, watching them run, play and cuddle, sharing glances that say more than words ever could, turned into a quite magical 20-minute sessions.

“We had such a great experience with Elena! My 5 year old loved her, and felt very comfortable around her. Not to mention our 15 week puppy loved her. She got some amazing photos with two subjects who were always on the move. Our family will cherish these photos forever. Highly recommend Maas Creative!”

Mini Sessions are happening this Saturday

There are less than a handful of spots left for Saturday’s mini sessions (October only has one spot left). Yes, we will be able to create a little magic in 10 minutes with you and your pup.

Why fostering a dog matters more than you think

When a dog first arrives in foster care, they often come with a mix of uncertainty and hope. They may be shy, scared, or unsure of their new surroundings. But with patience, love, and a safe place to land, something incredible happens: they begin to blossom.

For the past 8 weeks, we have been fostering the sweetest little puppy. Itty bitty, funny Pam is part of ‘The Office’ litter (along with Dwight, Jim, Kelly, Meredith and Angela) and she is the last one who is still looking for a home. Her mom was dumped while being pregnant and it has taken a village to get all 7 dogs into their safe homes. Three puppies were adopted quickly and 2 of the puppies were foster fails. My sweet Pam has a meet and greet in a few weeks with a family who is interested in adopting her. I will certainly be exhausted from staying strong for this long and not breaking down and foster fail this little girl.

After every foster puppy leaves, I grieve for a few weeks. Having had tiny Pam for this long, having taught her a good amount, having had her become part of our family and our every day routine, her just leaving will be hard. But I know that this little girl is set up for success and I’m so hoping she will stay close to where I will still be able to get updates while she grows up. I often get the question why I do this since it’s quite heartbreaking when they finally leave to go to their new families. So let me leave this here with you and I so hope that this might make you consider fostering a dog at some point.

Why Fostering Matters

Every dog has a story. Some are surrendered by families who couldn’t keep them, others are pulled from overcrowded shelters, and some have never known a gentle hand at all.

Without fosters, many of these dogs wouldn’t get their second chance. A foster home provides:

• Safety and stability in a world that’s felt unpredictable.

• Socialization and routine so they can learn how to trust again.

• Love and healing that prepares them for their forever family.

Fostering doesn’t just save lives, it changes them.

No puppy was harmed in the taking of this picture.

The Joy (and the Bittersweet Goodbye)

People often say, “I could never foster; I’d get too attached.” And it’s true, you absolutely do get attached. That’s part of of it all and each foster dog will take a little piece of your heart with them. But YOU set them up for success so they can live an amazing life in a family that will love them forever (hopefully).

But here’s the thing: every wagging tail, every playful bounce, every quiet moment when a once-fearful dog finally curls up beside you: those are the reminders that you’re making a difference.

And when adoption day comes, yes, there are tears. But they’re the kind of tears that hold both sadness and joy. You’re sad to say goodbye, but you’re overjoyed that they’ve found the family they were waiting for. Pam has not even left yet but knowing we have a scheduled meet and greet already makes me tear up…

Stories That Stay With You

I’ve seen dogs who arrived trembling, hiding in corners, eventually strut around the house with tails held high. I’ve witnessed dogs who had never known toys suddenly discover the joy of squeaky balls. I’ve watched them learn to trust, to love, to be loved.

Those moments stay with you. They remind you that even small acts of kindness can change the entire trajectory of a life.

What Fostering Teaches Us

Fostering isn’t just about helping dogs. It teaches us, too:

• To be patient with progress.

• To celebrate the little victories.

• To let go, trusting that the love you gave will carry them forward.

Most of all, fostering shows us the incredible resilience of dogs, their ability to forgive, to adapt, and to love again.

A Simple Way to Make a Big Difference

Not everyone can adopt. Not everyone can volunteer at a shelter every day. But fostering is a way to make an enormous impact, one dog at a time.

Opening your home to a foster dog is opening your heart to transformation for them, and for you.

Also, fostering does not cost you anything. Organizations, such as the Ozzie Albies Foundation usually take on the financial responsibilities such as vet visits, food, toys, supplies, etc.

If you’ve ever thought about fostering, consider this your sign. The dogs waiting in shelters don’t care if your home is big or small, or if your schedule isn’t perfect. They just need love, patience, and a safe place to land.

Bring your dog to work day: A photo session offer!

Tired of the same old Friday pizza party? Why not celebrate your amazing team and their furry best friends with something truly special?

I’m offering exclusive on-site photo sessions for your employees and their beloved dogs! Imagine professional, heartwarming portraits that capture the unique bond between your team members and their four-legged companions. It's a fantastic way to boost morale, create lasting memories, and celebrate the joy that office dogs bring to your workplace. This would also be a great gift to your team for the holidays ;)

What's included:

• Professional Photo Sessions: Individual mini-sessions for each employee and their dog(s).

• High-Quality Digital Images: Each employee will receive a selection of beautifully edited digital photos.

• Convenient On-Site Setup: I will bring my studio to you, making it easy and stress-free for your team.

Replace the pizza boxes with priceless memories for the team that works hard for you each day.

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

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.

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!

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.

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?

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.

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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

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.

• 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!!

Spotlight on amazing shelter dogs

Every week, I walk into the shelter with my camera in hand, ready to meet a new group of dogs. Some are shy, others practically explode with excitement the moment their kennel door opens. All of them, no matter their past, light up when given just a few minutes of attention, a patch of sunlight, and the chance to shine in front of a lens.

Supporting shelter dogs with photography has become a weekly ritual for me, something that’s not only changed my creative perspective but has also been unbelievably and incredibly fulfilling.

This past week I not only went to my local dog shelter but also partnered with Lifeline Animal Project to help bring attention to the incredible dogs waiting for homes, many of whom have been waiting far too long.

They All Have a Story

Some of the dogs I meet were picked up as strays, still wearing collars while also being microchipped. All hopeful signs that someone might come for them when being called. But nobody ever does.

Others arrive at the shelter in heartbreaking circumstances: surrendered by owners who believe it’s the best they can do, caught in the chaos of housing insecurity, health issues, or life simply falling apart. Then there are the long-timers, dogs who have lived at the shelter for years. Two, three, even four years. For some, the shelter is the only home they’ve ever really known.

I’ve met dozens of dogs in just the past few weeks, and every single one has left a mark on me. I want to take them all home. But we all know that is not how this works. I do love to give them a few moments in the spotlight and here and there some cuddles and kisses. I do tell all of them I will do my best to find them their perfect home.

More Than a Headshot

When a dog steps in front of the camera, something changes. They’re no longer “just another shelter dog.” They’re individuals. Stars. Models. Goofballs. Gentle souls.

I love capturing their head tilts, their toothy grins, their soulful eyes, their oversized ears and even more oversized paws, still growing into their puppyhood. Some show off adorable underbites, others offer nose boops and tail wags like they’ve been waiting for this their whole life.

These portraits aren’t just pictures. They’re a chance. A chance for someone scrolling through adoption profiles to pause, look again, and hopefully fall in love.

Photography as Advocacy

I believe deeply that photography can change the way we see shelter dogs. Instead of sad, sterile kennel shots, I aim to show the joy, the life, the personality of every dog I meet. They aren’t broken. They aren’t less-than. They’re just waiting for someone to see them.

If you’ve ever considered adopting, fostering, or even volunteering, PLEASE DO. These dogs have so much to give. And if you can’t take one home, share their photos. Tell their stories. Help someone else find their new best friend.

Because they are beautiful. They are worthy. And they deserve more than a kennel.