If you’ve ever thought, “My dog could never handle a photo session,” you’re not alone. As the proud and sometimes frazzled mom of a ‘special’ dog, I get it. The barking. The lunging. The side-eyes and suspicion when a camera appears. I’ve lived it and I promise, this is a judgment-free zone.

My very first dog was a reactive Golden Retriever (yep, a Golden…try explaining to people why your Golden doesn’t want to make new friends). And then there was Ziva, my sensitive Border Collie, who preferred a quiet bubble of space and made sure everyone knew it.

They taught me patience, humor, and how to truly understand a dog who sees the world a little differently.

So when I say no dog is too “difficult” for me to photograph—I mean it from the bottom of my dog-loving heart.

That’s exactly why I’ve created a photo experience just for dogs like ours: the shy ones, the fearful ones, the reactive ones—the “special” ones who need a little extra space, patience, and understanding.

So if you’ve ever hesitated because your dog isn’t “perfect”—know this: they’re perfect to me.

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This is Why I Specialize in ‘Special’ Dogs

With over 25 years of positive dog training under my belt, I know how to listen to what your dog is telling me. I’ll choose a location that helps them feel safe, use gentle body language and distance to respect their boundaries, and give them all the time they need to relax and show their true, beautiful selves.

You don’t have to apologize for your dog’s behavior. Not to me. I’ve lived that life. I know how tiring it can feel when you’re worried about how your dog will “handle things.”

But I also know how incredible it feels to have photos that finally capture the real soul of your dog—the moments that only you usually get to see.

I’ll capture those quiet moments—the soft glances, the sweet cuddles, the cautious curiosity—that you know and love about them. Those moments are gold. And I’d be honored to capture them for you.

This isn’t a rushed, stressful, “sit, stay, smile” kind of session. It’s a gentle, thoughtful experience built entirely around your dog and what they need.

• I pick the location carefully—a quiet park, open space, or tucked-away spot where your dog can breathe and feel safe.
• I use longer lenses so I don’t have to get too close.
• I move slowly, carefully, and respectfully—watching for the little signs your dog gives that they’re uncomfortable.
• I give breaks, space, patience…and treats. Lots of treats.

Because your wonderful, misunderstood, quirky, nervous, barky, needs-a-bit-of-space dog? They deserve to be seen. To be celebrated. To be the star of beautiful artwork on your walls—just as much as any other dog. Maybe even more.

Ready to celebrate your perfect dog?
Let’s chat about creating a session that makes your dog feel safe, seen, and loved—because they are. 💛