Capturing the Love and Legacy of Your Senior Dog

As pet lovers, we are blessed to share our lives with furry companions who bring boundless joy, love, and loyalty. While every stage of our dog’s life is precious, there’s a unique magic that radiates from a senior dog—the gentle grays around their muzzle, the wisdom in their eyes and the deep bond that time has forged. Beautiful Daisy here was 18 years old during her session. Her mom was 21, which means she had literally shared almost her entire life with Daisy. What a gift 💖.

A Senior Jack Russell Terrier photographed at Lake Quanapowitt, Wakefield, MA by dog photographer Donna Kelliher

Moments Fleeting, Love Eternal

Our senior dogs are truly priceless. With age comes a special kind of beauty and charm. Their personalities are fully developed and their quirks and habits are endearing reminders of the years spent together. And everything from leisurely strolls to heartwarming cuddles on the couch is a precious treasure.

As much as we wish our beloved companions could stay by our side forever, the reality is that their time with us is so heartbreakingly limited. Having just lost my beloved Border Collie, Twister, I know all too well the heartache when our constant companions leave us. Twister’s “fancy” agility champion name was ADCH Bronze, LAA Bronze Talisman’s Force of Nature. But above any ribbons and titles he was my best friend, my constant companion, my shadow. He was literally never more than an arms-length away from me.

He has been gone for 3 months now and I miss him every day. I miss his sweet presence, beautiful smile and his joy in everything he did. The house is painfully empty without him. But thankfully I have the countless photographs I took to capture our days together. These images make me smile and remind me of the wonderful bond we shared. And the artwork I have in my home of my sweet Twister has become a source of comfort and a celebration of a life well-lived.

Remember to Capture the Everyday Moments

That’s why I want all of you to take LOTS of photographs of your dogs🐶. Cherish and capture all their wonderful quirks and the love that shines in their eyes when they look at you! And then don’t just leave them to languish on your phone or in the depths of your computer. Print them out, make a photo book, create something tangible that you can see and enjoy every day. Because in the end, these photographs become more than just images—they become timeless testaments to a love that transcends time itself 💕.

Now maybe you’re struggling to capture the types of images you want. Or you want images of you and your dog together to celebrate your bond. Even as a professional pet photographer, my dogs have always been my toughest subjects😊. That’s why I want to offer the services of professional pet photographers to help you preserve these moments.

Through the lens of a professional dog photographer, the unique personality of your senior dog is captured in every glance, every wag of the tail and every soulful expression. These images will tell the story of a life filled with love, companionship, and shared experiences. These photographs become more than just images—they become timeless testaments to a love that will never end.

Senior Pointer mix amid the spring apple blossoms at Smolak Farms during a dog photography session with Donna Kelliher Photography

I Would Be Honored to Create Portraits of Your Senior Dog

I always feel incredibly honored when someone contacts me to photograph their senior pet. It’s a privilege to photograph dogs at this stage of their life. That’s why these sessions are very special to me. Senior dogs are given priority scheduling and I make any accomodations needed to assure the dog’s comfort and respect any physical limitations they may have.

The best piece of advice I can offer, if you’re considering a professional portrait session, is to schedule NOW. None of us can know what tomorrow or next week or next month may bring. . My Twister was only 10.5 when he passed and while I knew it was coming, it was still much too soon. And it breaks my heart when I meet people and they tell me about the dogs they’ve loved in the past and how much they wish they had more or better photographs to remember them by.

As the years pass with our special senior dogs, their companionship becomes more and more meaningful. As they age, their presence becomes priceless. Capturing these moments is essential. The images of these days hold memories, experiences, and the love that defines their lives. In a photo, their story is saved, reminding us that their time is short but their influence is lasting – a tribute to the bond we’ll always share.


Would you like to read about keeping your Senior Dog happy and healthy, click here for a blog on that very subject.

I’d love to hear about your special senior dogs. Please share their stories and photographs on my Facebook or Instagram page 💖

Puppy Pandemonium: Top 5 Tips for New Paw-rents!

Welcome to the wild, wiggly, and wonderfully chaotic world of puppy parenthood. You’ve decided to dive headfirst into the land of wagging tails, floppy ears, and slobbery kisses. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In addition to being a pet photographer, I have 20+ years training puppies to be beloved family members. Here are my top five no-nonsense tips to help you survive and thrive during those first few puppy-filled months.

Yes, that adorable puppy ⬇⬇ is mine. This is just a portion of what a young puppy left out of a crate can accomplish in a short period of time…. In my defense, I did put him in his crate, I just apparently forgot to latch the door 😭. Thankfully he didn’t get into anything dangerous, there was just a LOT of cleanup. Which brings me to tip #1 below.

Puppy Destruction

1. Crate Training: Your Pup’s Cozy Den

Let’s talk about crate training—a game-changer for both you and your pup. Picture it as your pup’s personal den—a safe space where they can retreat, rest, and recharge. While some might think it’s like sending them to puppy jail, it’s actually a tool for structure and comfort.

Why It Matters

It’s their safe haven. Dogs are den animals, so a crate becomes their natural den. It’s a spot where they can escape from the hustle and bustle when life gets busy.

It makes potty training 1000x easier. Puppies avoid soiling their living area, so a properly sized crate can help puppies learn to “hold it”. This helps minimize accidents. And when you take them out to do their business after leaving the crate, and they’ll quickly catch on.

It gives you peace of mind when they’re home alone (remember what that kid got into in the movie….) When you’re away, a crate ensures your pup’s safety. No unexpected surprises for you when you return, and no accidental destruction or potential injuries for them.

Crate-trained pups make traveling and any vet stays less stressful. They have a familiar space on the road and won’t have their first crate experience be when they’re sick or injured at the vet.

Remember, crate training isn’t about locking your pup away—it’s about providing a secure space for them to call their own. Done right, it’s a valuable tool for their safety, your sanity, and their overall happiness. And it will make all the following challenges easier 😊

2. Embrace the Chewmageddon: Channel It, Don’t Fight It

Let’s cut to the chase: puppies chew. A lot. Your furniture, your shoes, that important paper you thought was out of reach—it’s all fair game. No object is safe from their tiny, razor-sharp teeth. Instead of pulling out your hair (or what’s left of it), the key here is management. Keeping your puppy safely confined when you can’t watch them (see Crate Training 101 above) and invest in LOTS of puppy-safe chew toys. These little lifesavers will keep your pup’s dental health in check while saving your valuables from becoming their next midnight snack.

3. Potty Training: Where Accidents Happen… Everywhere

Ah, the magical world of potty training. Just as babies take time (YEARS in their case) to potty train, so do puppies (not years, thankfully). Yes, accidents will happen, LOTS of them. No, your pup isn’t trying to make your life miserable. Puppies physically can’t “hold it” for very long. Their bladders are small and their muscles aren’t fully developed yet.

Be vigilant, schedule regular potty breaks, and celebrate when they finally do their business outside. When you catch them mid-accident, don’t freak out. Just scoop them up, take them outside and reward them handsomely for going in the right place. Then make sure you clean up any accidents with an enzyme cleaner from the pet store so your puppy doesn’t get confused and go back to that spot as an alternative potty 🧻.

A litter of Newfoundland puppies ready for their new homes. Photographed by Donna Kelliher Photography in Topsfield, Massachusetts

4. Socialization: Your Pup’s Passport to the World

What is socialization? Simply put, it’s introducing them to the world around them. The people, places and experiences in this big world of ours that they may not have experienced before. Sounds, like sirens or vacuum cleaners. Objects, like umbrellas or strollers. Encounters, like bicycles or people wearing hats. Show them it’s all part of life.

Early positive exposure to various sights, sounds, and situations helps your pup become more confident and less likely to develop fears or aggression later on. But it has to be done right! Which means at their pace! Your puppy needs to be happy and excited by these new experiences or you can actually make your puppy more fearful. So go slow. Take it at your pup’s pace. Always make it positive, using treats and praise to make these experiences happy ones. If they’re overwhelmed, back off and try again later. Remember, socialization is about building positive associations, not pushing them into discomfort.

Embrace this adventure of showing your pup the world, and you’ll reap the rewards of a confident, well-behaved, and utterly charming four-legged friend.

Two puppies on the beach grass in Plum Island, MA by dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography

5. Training: Treats, Tricks, and Tons of Patience

Enrolling your puppy in a positive reinforcement-based puppy class can be a vital source of support on your journey with your puppy. We’ll help you teach your pup the basics—including the essential “leave it” (for your puppy who’s into everything all the time). As well as identify and help you solve any struggles your puppy may be having.

In my classes we use clicker training to teach all the basic cues along with a puppy play time to help with their socialization and play skills. Just remember to do your research and sit in on a class before you enroll to ensure they’re using science-based positive training techniques and not any methods that are harsh or heavy-handed.

You can search for positive trainers in your area here.


There you have it, new pup parents! Remember, every puppy is a unique ball of energy and fluff, so go easy on yourself. With a healthy dose of patience, a sprinkle of humor, and the ability to find joy in the midst of chewed-up shoes, you’ll be a pup parent extraordinaire in no time. So buckle up, enjoy the ride, and get ready for a lifetime of unconditional love and unlimited belly rubs. Woof, you’ve got this! 🐾


Would you like to read more about PUPPIES?!? Of course, you would check out this blog where Charlotte NC dog photographer Kim Hollis of BARKography talks about her love of photographing puppies. https://barkography.com/blog/i-love-photographing-puppies

Treasure These Fleeting Summer Days with Dog Portraits 😎🌻🐶

The memories we capture will keep you warm all winter.

Imagine the scene – it’s a beautiful cool morning, with blue skies and white puffy clouds. A field of summer wildflowers and a stunning husky. All the elements for the perfect summer portrait session. But first Zoey decided we all needed a good laugh and went into huntress mode and hopped and pounced (unsuccessfully) on unseen critters all over the field. She was so happy! I absolutely 💖 huskies, they have such a wicked sense of humor. Thankfully, once Zoey had cleared the area of any menacing chipmunks she was ready to rock her portrait session!

a husky amid summer wildflowers at Minuteman Park during a summer portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography

Zoey’s Mom knew that now is the ideal moment to capture beautiful summer portraits of your best pup! The crazy rain has stopped (for the moment) and left us with absolutely lush green everywhere. Add in blooming wildflowers (the black eyed susans are stunning right now) and we have a fantastic backdrop for creating stunning images. Imagine seeing a image like this of your dog on your wall every day. How could that not bring a smile to your face 😊

For those water-crazy dogs and those HOT summer days, I have the perfect location. This will be a FUN session with lots of splashing, swimming and retrieving fun. And I’m not afraid to get a little wet to capture your pup creating big waves. You will love these dynamic, action portraits (and love looking at them during the cold, dark months of winter). This was one seriously HAPPY dog during her session last week 🌊🐶💦

dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography, standing in the river photographing swimming dogs in North Reading, MA
Dog splashing in Ipswich River, Massachusetts during pet portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography, the Greater Boston Pet Photographer

Summer portraits are all about these fun, outdoor adventures. Your pup can run freely, splash around in ponds and streams, and be their true, happy self. All safely on a long leash, if the law and your dog’s personality require . And with my Photoshop magic no one will ever know they weren’t running wild and free. These photos will be like little memory capsules of all the fun times you’ve shared under the sun.

Mixed-breed dog running at Heard Farm, Massachusetts during pet portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography, the Greater Boston Pet Photographer

But remember, summer’s a short and sweet season. Those wildflowers🌻 won’t bloom forever, and the golden hour light is here only for a while. So, let’s not wait! Drop me a message, and together, we’ll plan a photo session that your dog will love and that will give you priceless artwork to treasure. Your pet’s summer adventure awaits! 🌞🐾

Have questions? Check out my FAQ page

Want to know more about my sessions? Grab my Session Guide.

Let’s Hit the Beach for Portraits You Will Love 💖

We all know how much dogs love the beach, don’t we? I mean, the feel of sand beneath their paws, the sea breeze in their fur (the occasional smelly thing to roll in…). Add in the opportunity to frolic around on an endless stretch of sand and surf, it’s a canine paradise. So I wanted to share why the beach is also a perfect location for your dog’s portrait session.

Rescue, mixed breed dog running at the beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts

Natural Beauty

The beach is one of the most beautiful locations for photography (and just in general, IMHO). The beach colors – the blue skies and white clouds, the light tan sand, and the shades of green and blue water, make for a stunning color palette. And the openness of sand and sea and sky is such a clean, uncluttered backdrop for your pet’s portraits, Perfect to decorate any home.

My favorite beach for sessions is Wingaersheek Beach in Gloucester. There is so that makes this beach perfect for your session. It has it all – from dune grassses (we only pose on the walking paths through them, never disturbing the actual dunes or wildlife that make them home), to HUGE boulders for climbing and posing. Plus lots of tidal pools, surf for the dogs to play in and plenty of room to run!

What could be better!

cattle dog mix on the beach on the North Shore of Massachusetts

Gorgeous Light🌞

I absolutely love the quality of the light at the beach early in the morning and early evening. That warm golden light makes every dog into a superstar. And the color in the sky as the light rises or sets is absolutely stunning.

FUN!🎉

In addition to posed images, I love to create action shots and fun candid images of your dog being a DOG. From flying down the beach chasing a ball to splashing in the waves or rolling happily in the sand, it’s like freeze-framing moments of pure happiness!

Most of my beach session clients add an album to their wall art choices as there are always too many awesome, fun images to narrow them down to just a few.

Golden Retriever crashing through the surf on the beach at Salisbury, MA

Best Bonding Moments 🐾❤️

Here’s the icing on the dog treat! The beach isn’t just a beautiful backdrop; it’s also the perfect place to capture memories of you and your dog together. Whether it’s your pooch giving you a sandy kiss or walking along the shore together – capturing these moments of connection results in truly priceless portraits. Are you a bit camera shy and don’t way to be the main focus in the images – fear not there are lots of ways to include you while still having your pet be the star of the show

Mixed breed dog photographed with his family on the beach in Plum Island, Massachusetts

So what are you waiting for? Just imagine images of your beloved dog striking a pose among the beach grasses or frolicing in the waves. Now imagine seeing those images every day when you enter your home. Remembering those moments playing on the beach. Let’s hit the beach and create images you’ll treasure. Let’s make some magic!

Grab my Session Guide to see just how to book your very own beach session!

a large piece of metal wall art featuring a  dog on the beach.

Photography for your reactive dog, capturing the joy

Are you a pet parent with a reactive dog? Or one who’s very shy or anxious? Would you love to have beautiful artwork of your beloved pet in your home but are worried about how your dog would behave during a portrait session? Whether the photographer could even work with your dog? Or even worse, would judge you for your dog’s behavior?

Today, I want to share with you why choosing a pet photographer who understands reactive, shy or anxious dogs can make a world of difference in creating a stress-free and truly remarkable experience. I’m a pet photographer and positive dog trainer. I have decades of personal experience living with and training reactive, shy and anxious dogs. I understand the challenges you face because I’ve lived them. Let me share with you why choosing a photographer who has a lot of experience working with scared and reactive dogs is the best decision for capturing unforgettable moments with your best friend.

This was my super sound-sensitive, reactive girl, Ziva. She taught me so much and made me not only a better dog trainer, but a better pet photographer. She was flight risk, so our sessions were always ON LEASH and in quiet locations.

A reactive dog being photographed on a quiet Massachusetts beach during a pet portrait session.

So what do you and your dog need in a pet photographer?

1. Empathy and Understanding for your Reactive Dog’s Needs

Reactive dogs require extra patience, care, and sensitivity. Working with a pet photographer who owns and works with reactive dogs ensures they empathize with your situation. I understand the unique challenges and can create a safe, stress-free environment for your furry friend to relax and be themselves. This leads to authentic and remarkable images that truly reflect your pet’s personality.

2. Specialized Techniques to Keep Everyone Safe and Happy

Photographing reactive, shy or anxious dogs requires a specialized approach. My experience with positive reinforcement techniques, redirection strategies and body language cues will keep your dog calm and comfortable during the session. This expertise guarantees stunning photos even with super “challenging” dogs.

3. Safe and Controlled Environment that Protects your Reactive Dog

When you choose a pet photographer who understands reactive dogs, you’re selecting someone who prioritizes the safety and well-being of your pet above all else. I will take the necessary precautions to create a controlled environment, minimizing triggers and potential stressors. Your pet’s safety and comfort is paramount. I’ll design your session with your dog’s safety and comfort in mind – from selecting a suitable, quiet location, letting your dog set the pace and allowing your dog to be securely leashed for their entire session (with leashes magically edited out for your final artwork).

4. Collaboration and Customization to Design your Perfect Session

Working with a photographer who understands reactive dogs means collaborating with someone who values your input. I listen to your concerns, preferences, and goals, and tailor the experience to your dog’s needs. Your dog always comes first during our session. This ensures that the photos reflect your dog’s individuality and personality. We capture the dog you know they are inside, not the sometimes stressed, reactive dog that the world sometimes sees.

Remember, capturing these precious moments with your dog is not just about the final images but the joy and memories that come with them. So, don’t hesitate to seek out a pet photographer who not only has the technical skills but also firsthand experience with reactive dogs. They will go above and beyond to ensure your pet feels comfortable, loved and is beautifully captured in each and every photograph. And you will have beautiful artwork from your day that will bring you joy every time you look at it.

Would you like more information about designing the perfect session for your dog? You can check out my Session Guide for more information or Contact Me for more information.

Important Life Lessons, from the dogs

photo of a dog surrounded my multicolor balls

Being owned by a dog is one of life’s greatest joys. Let’s face it dogs are pure joy! With our busy lives and never-ending commitments we could all stand to learn so much from our dogs about bringing more joy into our lives. Here are few of the lessons my dogs have taught me.

It’s the Simple Things in Life

Dogs live in the present moment and enjoy every single thing life has to offer – from a walk around the block to snuggling up on the couch for movie night! They are a constant reminder to take a break and enjoy life. They know that happiness doesn’t come from stuff or “likes” on social media but from enjoying every moment in the company of the ones we love.

The Power of Play ⚽

When was the last time you played? I mean really played (and not on your phone 😜). If you’re like me, PD (Pre-Dogs), it was a LONG time ago. Our dogs are masters at playing – with toys, balls, leaves blowing in the wind. They don’t need an excuse to let loose and just have FUN! And lucky for us, they’re usually willing to let us in on the fun too.

And when we join them for playtime, their joy is infectious. We laugh at the silly faces they make while trying to catch a ball (and when it bounces off their nose yet again). We marvel at how FAST they are as we try to keep up. It gives us an opportunity to take a break from reality and just enjoy the moment for what it is – pure bliss!

Border Collie crashing through water while being photographed by Greater Boston dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography

Unconditional Love & Loyalty

Finally, one of the greatest gifts our pets give us is their unconditional love and acceptance. No matter what kind of day we’ve had or how we’re feeling our pups will always greet us with their wagging tails and adoring eyes. Their constancy is an affirmation that everything will be alright. That kind of unwavering loyalty can transform any day from ordinary to extraordinary. And that my friends is true love and what is more joyous than that.

As we look around at how much happier life is with them in it, feel free to share the ways your dog has made your life brighter. How does your dog bring you joy? Share your stories with us in the comments! We would love to hear all about it.


Want some more joy in your life? Check out this post from Angela Schneider of Big White Dog Photography in Spokane, Washington, who’s starting a fundraiser for dogs right after ending one.

https://bigwhitedogphotography.com/fundraiser-for-dogs

Why You’ll Love a Photographer Who Does It All

All photographers are pretty much the same, right? Not really. Let me explain.

There are two main types of photographers working today. There are those who provide you with just digital files after your session and those, like me, that want you to have something more. I’m a “Full-Service Photographer” because I don’t want the images we create of your amazingly adorable dog to just sit on your computer or phone unseen and unloved.

I want you to have beautiful pieces of artwork for your walls and gorgeous albums to flip through. Not that I don’t sell regular prints and digital files as well, but I want you to have real artwork you see every day in your home. Artwork that reminds you of the love that your pet brings to your life (even if on that day they’ve peed on the floor and nibbled on your favorite shoes…). So in addition to photographing your dog, I help you create the perfect artwork for your home.

One of my most cherished possessions is a large framed print of this image 👉🏻

These are my first two dogs, Casey and Rio (aren’t they gorgeous!). They gave me so much love and laughter and this photograph is so “them”. So this portrait hangs over my desk where I see it every day when I sit down to work. It makes me smile EVERY time I see it. A digital file somewhere in my computer could never have that effect.

Two happy golden retrievers

The Best of Both Worlds – Convenience and Unparalleled Quality

Now maybe you’re thinking – but I can get my digital files printed myself. Sure, you could. But with our busy lives how many of us ever get around to it. And what exactly do you want to order? What size will look best in your home? Where can you get the best quality? Pieces that won’t fade or warp over the next year or two.

Do you want your images as metal prints, acrylic blocks, canvas wraps, or even a custom-made album with thick pages and a beautiful cover? It’s hard to choose, isn’t it? You probably aren’t even sure what all those options are. But I have a selection of the best products on the market. And samples of each so you can see and touch them before you decide.

When you hire a full-service photographer, everything is taken care of. From planning your perfect session to the gorgeous artwork delivered right to your home. After your session, I help you choose your favorite images and decide how you want to display them. And then everything from designing your beautiful custom album to choosing the best professional labs for your prints and wall art is off your shoulders.

This level of convenience allows you to simply sit back and relax while your memories are being transformed into something truly gorgeous that you’re going to LOVE. And since I use only the highest quality, professional labs you can be sure that your artwork is completely archival and will look as great years from now as it does today. In fact, I guarantee it. If your artwork isn’t perfect when I receive it from the lab, it’s reprinted. And if your prints were to ever fade, I’ll replace them free of charge

See What I Can Create for You!

Can you imagine the feeling of walking into your home everyday and seeing your family displayed in images like these?

Dog photographs on a wall at home

Or paging through an album like this featuring dozens of your favorite images?

Just like our dogs, it’s truly priceless.

Would you like to know more?

Contact me below if you have any questions?

You can check out my Session Guide below which has all the information about my sessions and the artwork I offer.


Did you enjoy this post? I’ve teamed up with some amazing photographers around the country in a blog circle to bring you lots of great photography ideas. This week Gretchen with Gretchen Decker Photography shares how using project management skills as a professional photographer helps to make your wedding day less stressful. https://www.gretchendeckerphotography.c om/…/Leave-it-to-me

How To Make Your Pet’s Portrait Session A Success

  • The number ONE concern dog owners have when thinking of a portrait session is: My dog can’t be off-leash. That’s honestly not a problem at all. 99.9% of the dogs I photograph are ON LEASH the entire session. And then through the magic of Photoshop I remove the leash (and sometimes the entire owner) from the final image. Check out the image below to see my magic in action!
Before and after leash and handler removal.
  • The on-leash concern is followed closely by the “My dog is very distractible and would never sit still for a session!”. Good news, I don’t expect them to. It’s perfectly normal for your dog to be distracted in a new location. With all the great smells and things to investigate, I expect it. It’s NOT a problem. I have an infinite supply of patience and it only takes a fraction of a second for me to capture THE SHOT. Since your dog is on leash and we have super yummy treats, we just bring them back and try again. And your dog’s session isn’t all sitting still, looking serious. I love to capture candid moments and action shots. Even the MOST distractible dog can have their moment in the spotlight!
  • Choose a photographer who specializes in pet photography. Just as I wouldn’t photograph a wedding (heaven forbid), there is a very special skill set involved in being a pet photographer. We are animal lovers first and always have your pet’s well-being in mind. We know how to read canine body language and know how to best communicate with them. For me, in addition to exclusively photographing pets, I have 20+ years as a positive dog trainer. I will always put your pet’s needs first.
  • My dog isn’t friendly with other dogs, is reactive, is very shy and fearful. That’s okay! I’ve owned dogs with all of those personalities myself and I totally understand their needs. My first rule for all sessions is that the dog is HAPPY. So we’re going to make them feel comfortable and safe before we ever start our session. Since I design every session for the particular dog we’re photographing, we will choose quieter, less busy locations. We’ll stay away from places that off-leash dogs frequent and pick a quiet time at whatever location we choose to keep the distractions to a minimum.
  • I usually recommend that clients go to the session location a bit before your session time and just walk around a bit. This gives your dog a chance to check out the location. To see what’s going on, to have a bit of sniff and pee on some stuff. All this can help them settle in and be more comfortable when the session begins.
  • Bring some small, yummy treats with you. Something they don’t get all the time can really keep their interest – cheese, deli meat, liver, chicken, you name it. I will have a selection of very special treats from Polkadog and The Natural Dog with me, but if your dog has favorites or a sensitive tummy make sure to bring their special treats along.
  • A simple, buckle collar (preferably without a LOT of dangly tags) photographs best. If you need a special collar or harness to walk your dog to the session, no worries, just bring a regular flat collar for the session. That and a plain 6 ft leash and you’re all set.
  • Lastly, the MOST important thing you can do to prepare for your dog’s portrait session is to RELAX and enjoy the experience! This is going to be fun (trust me, I photograph a lot of dogs and they’re always FUN!). Dogs sense our stress and that doesn’t make for a great experience for either of you. As long as your dog is relaxed and having fun, we’ll get great images. So relax and enjoy the experience.

Have more questions? Interested in a session for your dog? Check out my Session Guide for all the information on my sessions. Or my FAQ page for answers to more commonly asked questions.


Did you enjoy this post? I’ve teamed up with some amazing photographers around the country in a blog circle to bring you lots of great photography ideas. Any Pittsburgh friends here? Jessica Wasik with Bark & Gold Photography shares 5 tips to ensure a seamless pet photography session with your puppy. https://barkandgoldphotography.com/?p=14736

Time for some fun in the sun!

Blue Merle Border Collie, lupine field, spring, Stowe, Vermont

Ahh, Spring in New England. Is there anything better? After months of dreary days, cold weather and approximately 4 hours of daylight a day (okay that’s probably a bit of an exaggeration) I think we’re all ready for winter to be over!

We’re longing for the warmer temperatures and longer days that spring brings with her. The extra sunshine, the leaves returning to the trees and flowers blooming everywhere is just the antidote we need after a long winter. Finally we have more time to spend romping outside with our furry family members. What are you and your dog looking forward to as spring approaches?

Some fun spring ideas!

Twister and Believe are looking forward to lots of fun things this spring (maybe your dogs would like to try them out too).

  • Getting outside more and exploring some new hiking trails.
  • Visiting the beach before it closes to dogs for the summer.
  • We’re planning a ROAD TRIP! Grab your pup and hit the open road to check out a new dog friendly location for a few day getaway. Here is a great guide to a ton of ideas for New England road trips. I can’t wait to try out most of them!
  • Hosting a doggy playdate – we love to invite few fur friends over for some fun in the yard! It’s a great way for pups to socialize in a safe environment.
  • Visiting a dog-friendly restaurant. There are a lot of restaurants with patio seating that allow your pup to come with you while you dine (I love Marketstreet Lynnfield for lots of dog friendly options). I always pack some water and snacks for my dog as they hang out at my feet. Important tip for this, make sure your dog would be comfortable in the close quarters on most patios and able to chill for an hour or more without barking or mooching off the other diners 😊.
  • If your dog isn’t ready for the restaurant scene: Have a picnic with your pup. Pack up some yummy treats for you both and enjoy the sunshine.
  • And since my dogs favorite thing is to play in the water, have a pool party! Yes their pool is just a kiddie pool with a few inches of water in it but that doesn’t dampen the fun. And since they’re Border Collies who love to chase anything that moves, they LOVE the sprinkler too.

So what fun are you and your dogs looking forward to this spring? Anything that I can add to my dogs’ list?

Spring pet portrait of a mixed breed dog amid wild flowers in bloom in Massachusetts

And what about some spring portraits to remember these special days?

On top of all that doggie fun to be had, as a pet photographer one of my favorite things about the return of spring are SPRING PORTRAIT SESSIONS. Finally we can get back outside and photograph your dog in all the beauty that a New England spring provides.

I have several locations that really capture spring’s beauty. From flowering trees and native wildflowers in bloom to lush green fields and bubbling streams. These locations definitely capture the beauty of New England in SPRING. And while this time of year is amazing for all dogs, for those pups who don’t like the heat, now is the PERFECT time to schedule their session. Check out my Session Guide and Contact me if you have any questions or to plan your dog’s spring session. Let’s kiss winter goodbye and cherish these bright, beautiful days while we welcome in the beauty of spring!

Does your dog love the city?

A portrait session in and around Boston may be perfect for you!

Are you and your dog devoted city dwellers? Or maybe you and your pup love to hop on the T and visit one of Boston’s dog friendly breweries? Would your dog rather run around Boston Common or hang out in the Seaport than hike in the mountains? Are they elegant and sophisticated or do they favor the more gritty, urban vibe?

While most of my work features dogs in fields and woods and at the beach, I also LOVE shooting in the city. I love the energy and excitement and all the different “looks” that a session in the city provides. From historic, stately architecture, brick walkways and cobblestone streets to huge beautiful parks, fountains and colorful street art – we have so many options for your perfect “Boston” portrait session.

Jasper’s Fall Session

This fall I was lucky enough to photograph Jasper and his family in the Boston Public Garden and Beacon Hill. His parents live in the city and wanted to capture Jasper in places they love to spend time. These two locations were spectacular choices. We had fall foliage, the beauty of the willows and the footbridge over the lagoon in the Public Garden. And then a short walk away the historic brownstones and cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill.

Jasper was a rockstar! We had so much fun and I was able to create a great variety of images for his parents to choose the perfect artwork for their home.

Mixed breed dog photographed on Acorn Street, Beacon Hill, Boston

Isn’t this something you and your Boston-loving dog need? Just imagine coming home after a long day and seeing a big, beautiful print of your dog’s smiling face on your wall. Captured in front of a stunning view of the skyline. Or romping in the gorgeous green spaces of the Public Garden and the sparkling fountains of the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Or maybe among the colorful street art at the Underground Ink Block (check it out if you’re not familiar, I really need to photograph some dogs here!). Whatever you and your dog love most about Boston, I can design the PERFECT session for you and your furriest family member. Sounds pretty amazing, doesn’t it? What are you waiting for?


Did you enjoy this post? I’ve teamed up with some amazing photographers around the country in a blog circle to bring you lots of great photography ideas. Any Pittsburgh friends here? For more ideas on incorporating special places in your portrait session check out: Amy Fisher of Pawsburgh Photography shares why she’s your number one choice for photographing your sacred space! https://pawsburgh.zenfolio.com/…/i-want-to-photograph…