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.