You’d never guess that I used to be terrified of dogs. Not just nervous. I’m talking full-on panic at the sight of one 50 feet away. It all started when I was a kid and a dog chased and nipped me. That one moment left such a mark that for years I couldn’t even walk down a street if there was a dog in sight.
Fast forward to today, and my life? It’s all dogs, all the time. Photographing, training, cuddling 💖
So how did I get where I am now?
A gentle giant named Benjamin. He was my friend’s Irish Wolfhound, and despite his massive size, he was the softest soul. Little by little, Benjamin showed me that not every dog was something to fear. He cracked open the door for me to step through, first with cautious curiosity, and eventually with love.
Eventually, I got the courage to bring a dog into my own life. Naturally, I chose a Golden Retriever, one of the friendliest, most easygoing breeds, right? Well, my Golden clearly hadn’t read that memo. He turned out to be fearful, reactive, and was trying to bite me when he was just a few months old (and no, not puppy biting).
After many, many tears, I knew I could not give up on my Casey. I wanted to understand him, help him, and figure out how to build trust. Thankfully, I discovered CanineUniversity (where I still teach 25 years later). Those classes opened up a whole new world to me. What started as a desperate attempt to help my dog became the beginning of a new passion. To help the misunderstood, the fearful, the “scary” dogs. I went on to become a dog trainer, specializing in reactive and aggressive dogs — because I knew what it felt like to live with one and love one deeply.
And since I just happened to have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in photography, what was more logical than to focus my work on my favorite creatures – DOGS. Sorry humans, you’re a distant second, maybe third 😜. And my journey with Casey made me uniquely suited to photographing all kinds of dogs.
I understand that not every dog is calm, social, or easy to handle in new situations. That’s okay, I’ve been there. I know how to read body language, give them space, and create a safe, relaxed environment so their true spirit can shine. For my clients, that means peace of mind: whether your pup is shy, bouncy, or a little spicy, I’ll capture them beautifully, just as they are.
So yes, you’d never guess that the girl who once crossed the street in fear of a dog is now surrounded by them – behind the lens, on the couch, and in her heart. And now? I can’t imagine life without dogs. The cuddles, the love, the joy, the laughter – they bring it all.
So what would we “never guess that” about you?
xoxo