Perfect images vs. real connection

If all you’re looking for is the perfect picture, the flawless pose, the technically stunning image that could live anywhere and belong to anyone, then honestly, AI can probably give you that. And that’s okay.

But if what you want is something deeper, something real, something rooted in connection, then that’s where I come in.

Before a session ever begins, I want to know you. I want to hear about where your dog came from. I want to hear the story, the first meeting, the challenges, the growth, and the trust you have been building together over time. I want to understand the relationship, not just photograph the subject.

Yes, I know I’m competing with AI and we all know people are increasingly obsessed with perfection. I will never be able to give you what AI can do nor do I strive to do so.

AI can create an image that looks perfect. What it cannot do is feel the pause when your dog leans into you, recognize the way your hand instinctively rests on their shoulder, or notice the quiet moment when they check in with you without being asked. It cannot see the history behind the bond.

I do not strive for perfection, I strive for presence.

I want to capture the small, intimate moments, the ones that do not shout for attention but mean everything. The moments you might not even realize are happening until you see them frozen in time. This can be a quick glance, or just the familiar closeness that exists because of years of shared experiences. What I love most about this work is the connection. Being trusted enough to witness even a tiny glimpse of the relationship you share with your best friend is something I do not take lightly. Every dog, every human, and every bond is different, and that is exactly why it matters.

My sessions are not about forcing poses or manufacturing something that is not already there. They are about allowing space for authenticity, about slowing down, and about letting your dog be who they are with the person they love most.

If you want an image that looks perfect, polished, and untouchable, AI can do that faster and cheaper. But if you want images that feel like you, that hold emotion, history, and connection, I would love to hear from you. Because what we create together will not just be a photograph.

It will be a moment that already mattered, remembered forever.

Why I photograph more than just the happy moments

As a photographer who specializes in dogs and their people, much of my work focuses on connection. The everyday moments, the closeness, and the trust between dogs and the humans who love them. Those images are easy to share and easy to engage with. But they are not the whole picture of why I do this work.

I feel a strong responsibility to give back to the shelter and rescue world through photography.

Over time, the content I share has changed. I am sure there are people who have stopped following my work because of it. My account is no longer only beautiful photos of happy dogs surrounded by people who love them dearly. It also includes shelter dogs who are sad, depressed, and completely shut down in their kennels. That shift has been intentional, even when it is uncomfortable.

This is not about telling sad stories for the sake of emotion. Shelters are complex places. They hold resilience and hope, but they also hold the consequences of human failure. Dogs who were abandoned, overlooked, or misunderstood did not choose to be there. As someone whose career is built around celebrating the bond between dogs and people, ignoring those dogs does not feel honest.

Photography is the skill I have, and it is how I can contribute.

When I photograph shelter and rescue dogs, I am not trying to define them by their lowest moments. I am trying to show them clearly and respectfully as they are right now. Some are fearful, some are shut down, some are still hopeful, but all of them are individuals who deserve to be seen. A photograph can change how a dog is perceived and, in some cases, change their outcome by helping them get noticed, shared, or adopted.

At the same time, I continue to photograph the relationships that come after rescue. Many of the dogs I work with today were once shelter or rescue dogs themselves. Documenting those bonds is not separate from my shelter work. I would consider it being connected to it. Those images show what is possible when a dog is given time, care, and commitment.

Supporting shelters through photography is part of how I align my work with my values. Every image of a dog settled into life with their person exists because someone chose to do better.

I do not photograph shelters to make people feel sad or guilty. I do it because I believe I have a responsibility to use my skills where they are needed most. My work is about dogs and their people, including the dogs who are still waiting and the ones who have already made it home.

Telling the full story means showing all of it, not just the parts that are easy to look at.

Bear + Dewey

When I first met Jamie, she was fostering Bear, who at the time was with the Ozzie Albies Foundation looking for his forever home. I could tell that she already loved the dog and I offered her to take a picture of her just for the fun of it. Sure enough, she made the decision shortly after to adopt Bear. Fast forward to the fall of 2025 when a beautiful, but quite shy pup found himself at the Cobb County Animal Shelter. Through this village that is needed in the dog rescue world, he was pulled from the shelter and put into a short-term foster home to quarantine and decompress. Jamie, again, stepped up to foster once his quarantine was over and she, again, fell in love. Guess what.. I took a picture of the two of them and shortly after she made the decision to adopt him. This session was such a treat to finally get all four of them in front of the camera in a beautiful setting, finding out that Dewey has fully settled in, has been entertaining them with his shenanigans and has even grown fond of their cat. My wish for 2026 is that every shelter dog will find a home and family like Dewey has.

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Why I no longer share Rainbow Bridge Sessions on social media

As a dog photographer, I spend a lot of time in photography communities and social media groups. One question I see often is, “How do I get more people to like my posts?”

When I really sit with that question, I feel grateful that my work has never been about numbers or visibility. While I appreciate engagement and true connection with the people who book me, it has never been the reason I photograph dogs, especially during life’s most tender moments.

My work exists for the people who have been lucky enough to love a dog who changed the way they see the world. A dog who helped them slow down, a dog who taught them to find joy in the small, everyday moments, a dog who brought comfort, laughter, and unconditional love through every season of life.

Dog photography, especially senior dog photography and end-of-life pet photography, is about preserving feeling. The love, the adventures, the quiet routines, and the silly habits that still bring a smile long after goodbye. These photographs become reminders of a bond that never truly disappears.

Because of this, I have made an important decision: Rainbow Bridge Sessions will no longer be shared on social media.

A Gentle Shift in How I Share Rainbow Bridge Sessions

Rainbow Bridge Sessions take place during deeply emotional and vulnerable times. These sessions are created with patience, compassion, and respect, and they are meant to belong to the families who are navigating the loss of a beloved dog.

While permission may have been given in the past, I want to sincerely apologize if your Rainbow Bridge pet photography session was ever shared publicly. It was never my intention to reopen wounds or cause pain. With time and reflection, I’ve realized that even well-intended sharing can feel different once grief has settled in.

I also never want to grow my social media following through images that are so deeply personal and meaningful to someone experiencing pet loss. These photographs are not content, they hold memories along with so much love and at the same time they are goodbyes.

What This Means Moving Forward

Going forward, all Rainbow Bridge and end-of-life dog photography sessions will remain private. They will continue to be offered with the same care, gentleness, and intention but the images will live where they belong: with the people who loved their dog wholeheartedly.

Thank you to every family who has trusted me with something so personal. It is an honor to document these moments, and one I will always hold with deep respect.

2025 Recap and thoughts for the new year

This year I allowed myself to try different things regarding photo sessions. The fall mini sessions were quite successful but personally, it felt very rushed to have 10-minute sessions back to back.

Very often, when people book the Pittie session which is about 40 minutes long, it takes EVERYONE, the dogs included, about 10 minutes to just settle in and loosen up in front of the camera. I don’t think 10 minutes is fair to the dogs who have no idea what is expected of them. They don’t know what it means to have a camera in their face and some are even scared of the camera and its sounds.

Thinking more about this and wanting to offer shorter sessions, my plan in 2026 is to offer 20-minute sessions once every other month (maybe more frequently depending on demand), clustered on one day. These days will go out in the newsletter each month and people can sign up for them if they want a shorter session, if their dog just can’t make it through a 40-minute session, or if a longer session just doesn’t fit into the budget.

Also, in the new year, I would love to work with more businesses who are all about dogs. May it be the pet boutique or the veterinary office that is looking to refresh their website images or step up their social media game. If you are or know of a great business that is all about dogs that would benefit from this, let me know.

With all of this being said, the one thing that will not change is my involvement in volunteering my time to shelters and offering my photography to them as well as foster dogs around me.

Thank You!

This year has been a complete WOW.

For so long I kept imagining what it would be like to go out on my own as a dog photographer. I kept stopping myself because the worries were loud. What if I can’t find clients? What if I have to constantly run discounted sessions just to stay afloat? Some people around me doubted the idea too and suggested I should offer family photography instead of focusing only on dogs. Those thoughts stuck with me longer than I care to admit.

I’m grateful I finally trusted my gut and went all in.

I never expected the response I received. So many of you, most of you complete strangers from the internet who I meet in the woods with your dogs, have shown me unbelievable support. You’ve booked sessions, sometimes year after year. You’ve recommended me. You’ve brought your dogs back to play in front of my lens again even when you didn’t need more photos. That level of trust still floors me.

This step into a new chapter didn’t just give me time to dedicate to my own business. It opened doors to new friendships and connections through networking groups and shelter volunteer work. It expanded my world and fulfilled me in a way I didn’t see coming.

Thank you for every booking, every review, every comment, every share. You helped me build something I once doubted I could pull off. You made this dream come true.

I appreciate you more than you know.

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.

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.

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.

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

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!!