Capture Your Pup’s Magic with Sessions Amongst the Blossoms 🌷🐶🌷

Hello fellow dog lovers! If you’re all about capturing your furry friends in an incredible, unique location then my Flower Field sessions are a perfect choice! Picture this: your dog, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of blossoms, basking in that dreamy golden hour glow—it’s like something out of a fairy tale!

My Flower Field sessions are truly paw-some for several reasons. First, there’s the magical golden hour glow, which bathes your pet in soft, warm light of sunrise making them shine like a superstar. And what are flower photos if your pet isn’t absolutely surrounded by them. So I get down LOW to capture your dog from their best angle, right in the midst of all those beautiful blooms. Picture head tilts and curious noses sniffing through a wall of flowers—it’s pure joy. Your gorgeous pup absolutely surrounded by beautiful, colorful blossoms turns every image into a work of art, making it look like your pet is starring in their own nature documentary, but way cuter.

a mixed breed dog posing in a field of blossoms during a tulip session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts
a standard poodle posing amid the blooms during a tulip session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Celebrating Spring Tulip Sessions

Our recent spring tulip sessions have been nothing short of magical. The vibrant colors of the tulips provided a stunning backdrop for our canine clients, ranging from deep reds and purples to soft pinks and yellows. These sessions resulted in breathtaking images that capture not just the beauty of the dogs, but also the essence of spring itself.

Clients have been thrilled with the images and the artwork we created for their homes. Seriously, who needs a bouquet when you can have your pet surrounded by tulips forever?

a labrador retriever posing in a field of tulips during a blossom session
a Beagle posing in a field of tulips during a blossom session this spring in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Next up Lavender Field Sessions!

As we transition into summer, we’re excited to announce our upcoming lavender field sessions. The soft purple hues of lavender fields offer a more serene backdrop compared to the vibrant energy of the tulips.

Picture your dog posing amid rows and rows of purple blooms as the sun rises and the bees gently buzz about. The morning is still cool and you’re surrounded by the incredible fragrance of lavender creating a relaxing atmosphere for our pups and us. These sessions will provide a perfect opportunity for creating elegant, timeless portraits that exude calm and tranquility.

And if you’re crazy about all things lavender like I am, you can check out the farm store and bring some lavender goodies home with you.

Transforming Homes with Floral Pet Portraits

The true magic of these flower field sessions lies in their ability to transform living spaces. These aren’t just photographs; they’re pieces of art that bring color, life and the beauty of nature (and of course, the love of your pups) into your home.

Let’s make sure your pet gets their moment in the sun —because they deserve to shine brighter than any flower in the field!

a portrait of a dog in a field of flowers on an office wall

Ready to capture your pet’s playful side in a picture-perfect flower field? Click here for more information. Contact us now to book your session and let’s make magic happen.

How to Drool-Proof Your Photos: My Essential Dog Photography Gear

I’m so lucky. My job isn’t your typical nine-to-five. I get to spend my days lying in the dirt and getting covered in slobbery kisses. Have you ever wondered what goes into a pet photographer’s camera bag. Hint, it’s a lot more than just our camera gear. It takes a whole lot more gear to capture those unforgettable moments of furry cuteness. It takes a whole bag of tricks (and treats!). Let’s dive into my gear and unveil the secrets to getting those pawsome pics!

So we’ll start with the obvious 📷.

1. My trusty Nikon Z8

This mirrorless marvel is my constant companion. Lightweight and lightning-fast, it lets me move with the agility of a ninja squirrel, keeping up with even the most energetic furballs. It’s perfect for capturing those fleeting moments of pure joy.

2. My Lens Duo

I never leave home without my trusty lens duo! My 70-200mm lens zooms in tight for those captivating close-up portraits that capture every whisker twitch and playful tongue loll. It also allows me to be at more of a distance for dogs who maybe need a bit more space. And this lens gives you those gorgeous, smooth backgrounds. For capturing the full scene, like a majestic Golden Retriever bounding through a field of wildflowers or an adorable 15 year old Chiweenie overlooking a sweeping beach vista (at last week’s session), my 24-70mm lens is perfect for the job.

Mixed breed dog on the Wingaersheek beach in Gloucester, MA photographed by Massachusetts dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography with my favorite gear, my Nikon Z8 and Nikon 24-70mm lens.

3. A little extra sunshine

I always carry a portable off-camera flash unit even for outdoor sessions. You never know when you’re going to need a little extra light on a gloomy day or deep in the woods to bring a little extra sparkle to your images.

4. Lens Wipes: Battling the Drool Monster

Let’s be real, pet photography isn’t always glamorous, in fact it’s usually downright messy. Between the slobbery kisses and the over enthusiastic muddy paw prints, my lens cleaning supplies are lifesavers. A clean lens means crisp, drool-free photos that make pet parents swoon. Gotta keep the gear clean, the rest of me can stay wet and muddy until I get home 😊

5. TREATS: String Cheese & More!

Happy pups make for happy photos, and that’s where my treat arsenal comes in. String cheese is a universal crowd-pleaser, but I also carry a variety of other yummy snacks to keep those furry friends motivated. After my camera, my treat supply is my most important piece of gear. A well-motivated model is a model who delivers the goods (and the cute poses).

6. The Noisemaker Symphony

It can take a lot of silly noises to get those adorable head tilts and adorable expressions. Sometimes, a squeaky toy just isn’t enough. That’s why I come prepared with a full orchestra of noisemakers, from crinkly balls to a quacking duck call (hey, it works!). I’m also prepared to unleash a wide array of slightly embarrassing, silly noises of my own. You will find me during a session meowing, puppy whining and generally making a fool of myself in search of the perfect expression. Hey, whatever it takes, right?

7. Poop Bags: The Silent But Necessary Hero

Accidents happen, even to the most glamorous pups. I always pack plenty of poop bags – because we want to be able to keep taking our pups to beautiful places and that means always cleaning up after our dogs.

8. Hydration Station

Especially on hot days, a portable water bowl is a must-have to keep my furry friends happy and hydrated. A happy pup is a cooperative pup, and that means more time for capturing those pawsome portraits!

9. The Multi-Purpose Towel

A towel is a lifesaver in the field! It can clean up unexpected messes, dry off a wet pup, or create a comfy spot for my furry friend to relax between takes. I didn’t have a towel at a recent session and realized I needed to add it to my kit. At the very beginning of this session an impeccably groomed Sheltie promptly jumped into some black muck before we had even taken a single photo. A quick dunk of her feet and legs into the clean water and then drying off with my sweatshirt saved the day, but a towel got added to my camera bag after that.

Shetland Sheepdog running across a field in Hudson, NH during a dog photography session with Donna Kelliher Photography
The mucky swamp princess. You’d never guess her legs were covered in black mud when our session started.

10. Safety First

Because unexpected situations arise, I always carry a small pet first-aid kit. Better safe than sorry, especially when dealing with adventurous furry explorers! Here are links to the Red Cross’ list of what your kit should contain and a review of the 4 best kits you can buy online for those of us who would like something ready made.

So there you have it! A peek inside my bag of tricks that helps me translate pet pandemonium into unforgettable pet portraits. It’s all about being prepared, having the right tools, and showering our furry friends with love (and maybe a few treats). Now, enough talking, gotta go capture some cuteness!!

Let me know if I left anything out. Or if you have any questions. Talk soon!

xoxoxo

Donna

Sun’s Out, Tongues Out – I LOVE Spring!

Spring is undoubtedly my favorite time of year. There’s a palpable sense of renewal and possibility in the air, it’s my New Years 🥂🍾🎉. The longer days, warmer weather, and the blooming flowers and trees make this season truly special.

I just got back from a walk with Believe and everything is so ALIVE! We passed trees filled with white and pink blooms, whole hillsides of forsythia and daffodils galore. Even the lowly dandelions look pretty at this time of year. And the birdsong – the woods are filled it. And with the return of Spring we have months of gorgeous days ahead to share with our best friends – laughing, adventuring and making amazing memories!

a dog portrait amid the spring wildflowers by Massachusetts dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography

Basking in the Spring Sun

For me, the best part of spring is the warmth and sunshine 🌞. Gone are the days of battling icy sidewalks and shortened walks. Spring brings longer days, perfect for extended adventures with our dogs. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the park with friends (human and canine) or a challenging hike in the woods, our pups can finally unleash their inner explorer with more sunshine-filled hours to roam.

Plus, for our water-loving dogs, spring often means the return of refreshing swims in every body of water they can find (not that winter stopped the swimming completely, but I don’t have to worry about them getting hypothermia anymore 🥶). It’s the perfect opportunity to explore new trails, discover hidden natural wonders, and let our furry friends run and play to their heart’s content.

Bringing Back the Beauty

The arrival of spring also brings a stunning display of natural beauty. Vibrant spring flowers and the return of Mother Nature’s lush greenery transform the world around us. As a photographer, I relish the chance to capture the return of Nature’s beauty from the pale neutrals of winter. There is nothing like capturing the joyful expression of a dog chasing butterflies in meadows bursting with wildflowers. But you don’t need to be a professional photographer to capture all this beauty. Make sure to take plenty of photos of your dog enjoying all that spring has to offer.

Dining Al Fresco

Another favorite benefit of spring is all the outdoor dining options that welcome our canine companions. From cozy breweries (like Nightshift Brewing in Everett and their Beer Gardens in Boston) to restaurant patios (including most of the restaurants with patios at Marketstreet Lynnfield and if you’re looking for a bit of day trip I’ve heard good things about Longboards in Salem, MA). There are countless opportunities to enjoy a meal or a refreshing beverage while our dogs bask in the warm sunshine. It’s the perfect way to savor the season and create lasting memories with our four-legged friends.

Putting on my “dog trainer hat” for a moment, please make sure your dog is comfortable and actually going to enjoy the bustle and crowds of a brewery or restaurant. Maybe grabbing takeout for a picnic in the park would be more fun for them (and you). My current girl, Believe, would hate the crowds and bustle so we stick to going out for ice cream where we can have much more space and peace (and ICE CREAM 🍦).

a spring portrait of small mixed breed dog among the tulips in Ipswich, Massachusetts

Spring is a season that inspires us to live life to the fullest. I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and joy during this time of year. The beauty, the adventure, and the opportunity to connect with our furry friends make spring a truly special season.

What is your favorite spring activity with your dogs? Let me know in the comments and let’s embrace the gorgeous days, the great outdoors and the chance to create unforgettable memories with our beloved dogs.

Warmly,

Donna

DonnaKelliher.com ~ Pet Photography for the best loved dogs of Greater Boston, the North Shore and beyond.

Because YOUR dog isn’t “just a dog”

Now You See It, Now You Don’t. Editing Magic!

Move the slider and watch the magic!

As dog photographers, we all crave that perfect shot: a playful pup mid-leap, a majestic portrait in a stunning landscape. But let’s face it, safety ALWAYS comes first, and that means leashes (and sometimes handlers) become part of the picture. But who wants those distractions spoiling the artwork that’s going to hang on their wall? You want your images to capture a leash-free adventure and here’s where our editing magic steps in. Skilled editing lets us remove leashes and handlers from photos, creating the illusion of a carefree dog enjoying the moment whether it’s a romp on the beach or an adventure in the woods.

a husky in a field of wildflowers for a dog photography session with Donna Kelliher
Move the slider and watch the magic

Beyond the Leash: A World of Editing Magic

Editing goes far beyond just leash removal. It’s a powerful tool that allows us to:

  • Enhance Natural Beauty: A touch of editing can make fur shine brighter and eyes sparkle while removing eye boogers and the stray spit flying.
  • Craft a Perfect Setting: Stray objects and even stray people in the background can be whisked away, leaving a focused and captivating image.
  • Fine-tune the Mood: Creating your final image doesn’t end when we press the shutter. Subtle adjustments in light and color can create a specific atmosphere from playful and energetic to serene and majestic.

Now Picture this: Your pup’s playful spirit (or regal serenity) captured forever, leash-free, on a stunning piece of artwork for your home. Editing takes images from snapshots to works of art. I can unlock this magic. Let’s create something truly special today!

wall art of a husky in a summer wildflower field

Until next time, wags from all of us here at Donna Kelliher Photography

Adventure Awaits! Help Us Scout Epic, New Locations (and one of you will win a complimentary session…)

As a pet photographer based on the North Shore of Massachusetts, capturing the essence of your furry best friend goes beyond just snapping a picture. It’s about creating timeless artwork that reflects your pet’s personality and celebrates the special bond you share. A big part of this is choosing the perfect locations to set the stage for your pet’s starring role. This is where the magic begins!

Location, Location, Location!

I meticulously select session locations based on several factors.

  • Safety: Is always the first consideration. Even though most dogs I photograph are on leash during their sessions, I want a location that is not crowded with loose dogs, heavy traffic nearby or natural features that could be dangerous.
  • Pet-Friendly: Obviously 🙂
  • Variety: Within a location, I look for opportunities to create diverse compositions – wide vistas, intimate vignettes, and playful action shots. Maybe a field with some wooded areas, a rock wall to pose on, you get the idea.
  • Lighting: The golden glow of sunrise or sunset can create warm, dreamy images while the light filtering through trees in the woods creates a classic, natural look.
  • Ambiance: A peaceful meander through the woods allows for relaxed portraits, while crashing waves at the beach injects a dose of playful energy.

I work hard to match the location to the pet’s personality and your tastes. Paying special attention to dogs that might need quieter locations over the party-animals that are up for anything, anywhere.

I have a long list of favorite locations, but every year I want to add some new locations to offer to my clients.


Calling All New England Pet Lovers!

That’s where you come in friends! I’m on the hunt for some hidden gems or under-appreciated favorites within an hour or so drive of Boston. Breathtaking vistas further out (up to 2 hours) are also welcome! To incentivize your exploration expertise, I’ll be offering a complimentary custom pet photography session to the person who suggests a location I absolutely love and use in a future shoot.

On our photographic quest, we’re seeking these pawsome locations:

Locations- Sunset at Lake Sunapee, NH at Wag It Camp.

Within an hour (or so) of Boston:

  • Sunset Silhouettes: Can you recommend a scenic spot with a clear horizon for capturing those breathtaking sunset silhouettes? Think hilltops or open fields with unobstructed views of the western horizon.
  • Water Wonderland: Beaches are great (I love Wingaersheek for great portraits), but for a touch of variety, what about a gorgeous lake, river or stream with unique features? Think rustic bridges, rocky outcroppings or vibrant foliage framing the water’s edge. Bonus points if there is a shallow area for those epic splash photos.
  • Wildflowers: I have a couple of locations with summer flower fields, but would love to find another spring wildflower location.

Epic Vistas (up to 2 hours away):

  • River Rhapsody: A flowing river with a rocky bank offers both natural beauty and interesting textures. Smaller streams can be ideal for creating a sense of adventure for your furry explorers.
  • Epic Escapes: Breathtaking waterfalls cascading down moss-covered rocks, or mountain ranges painted with vibrant hues during sunrise/sunset. These locations add a touch of grandeur to your pet’s portraits.
Locations: Australian Shepherd photographed at Lake Tahoe, CA
Unfortunately this epic location is at Lake Tahoe, CA, so a bit farther than 2 hrs away…

Do you have special place you think would be perfect that’s not on the list, let me know!


The Winning Shot!

For the reader who suggests a location that absolutely steals my heart (and becomes the setting for a stunning pet photography session), I’ll be offering a complimentary pet photography session and 8×10 metal print!

So unleash your inner explorer! Leave a comment below (or email me) with details about your suggested location in Eastern/Central MA, Northern CT/RI and Southern NH/VT. Include its pet-friendliness and any special features that make it unique.

I can’t wait to explore these hidden treasures and capture some truly unforgettable pet portraits!

P.S. Don’t forget to share this post with your fellow pet lovers! The more suggestions we get, the wider our range of stunning locations will be.



Beyond the Backyard: Unleash Stunning Pet Portraits in Amazing Locations

Admit it, our dogs are our family. Sometimes our favorite members of the family😜.They bring us endless joy, unconditional love, and of course, endless tail wags. As a professional dog photographer, I specialize in capturing the unique personalities and playful spirits of your furry best friends. But what if I told you your pup’s next portrait could be so much more than just a cute image on your phone? Let’s choose one of the amazing locations in this beautiful area we live to make your pup’s portraits extra special.

Imagine this: Your beloved pup, basking in the golden glow of a beach sunset, with the salty breeze tousling their fur. Or perhaps your majestic dog perched regally amidst a field of vibrant sunflowers, their eyes sparkling with joy. These aren’t just ordinary pet portraits; they’re breathtaking works of art that showcase your pet’s personality amidst the the stunning beauty of nature.

Here at Donna Kelliher Photography, I offer a wide variety of unique pet portrait experiences designed to bring out your pet’s inner superstar and create the perfect artwork to grace your home.

Dog photograph hanging on the wall in a home from Donna Kelliher Photography.

Which session location is perfect for you and your dog? Let me know in the comments.


Beach Bliss: Capture the carefree spirit of your dog with a session on the picturesque shores of our local beaches. Here we have room to run and pose among tide pools and the grassy dunes. The sound of crashing waves, the soft sand beneath their paws, and the playful glint in their eyes will create an unforgettable portrait.

Rescue, mixed breed dog photographed at Wingaersheek beach in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Locations option

Woodland Wonderland: Embrace the beauty of nature with a session in the one of the many gorgeous woodlands that New England is graced with. The lush greenery, mossy boulders, lakes and ponds provide so many gorgeous options for your dog’s portraits.

locations: Pug photographed in Massachusetts in a garden in Carlisle, Massachusetts

Blooming Fields: Capture the essence of summer with a session in a field bursting with wildflowers. Your pup can frolic amidst a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a joyful portrait that you will love during those cold winter months.

a husky in a field of wildflowers for a dog photography session with Donna Kelliher

Urban Adventure: Maybe your dog prefers brunch at the Seaport over romping in the muddy woods. For the city pup let’s capture their spirit with a session in the vibrant streets of Boston. Boston has it all – beautiful brick buildings, historic landmarks, gardens, parks and fountains – all perfect for the city dog’s session. With the energy of the city we will create gorgeous artwork of your dog’s lifestyle for your home.

Locations: Dog photographed in Boston's Public Garden by Boston dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography

Looking for something even more extraordinary? These Limited Time session locations are even more special because of the short time we can capture their beauty 🌷🌻🌷

Tulip Time Extravaganza: For a limited time only, capture your pet’s playful spirit amidst a vibrant field of blooming tulips. The kaleidoscope of colors creates truly unique and joyful portraits.


Lavender Fields Forever: Immerse yourselves in the aromatic embrace of a lavender field for a truly unforgettable session. The beautiful rows of purple blooms will create a stunning backdrop for your pet’s portrait, while the calming scent will put them at ease.


Sunflowers in Bloom: Capture the sunny spirit of your dog with a session in a field of sunflowers. These cheerful giants will create a vibrant and joyful backdrop for your pet’s portrait, guaranteed to make you smile.

Cane Corso and small white mixed breed photographed at School Street Sunflowers during their session with Donna Kelliher Photography in Newburyport, Massachusetts


These are just a few of the many creative options I offer to make your pet’s portrait session an unforgettable experience. Contact me today to discuss your vision and let’s create a masterpiece that celebrates the unique bond between you and your furry friend!

So where is the perfect place for YOUR dog’s session?

Woofs 🐾

Donna

Because YOUR dog isn’t “just a dog”


P.S. Don’t forget to follow me on social media for sneak peeks of recent sessions and exciting announcements about upcoming special portrait sessions!

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An Awesome Adventure: My Professional Portrait Session At The Water

Woof woof! Hey there, fellow doggos! It’s me, your favorite canine companion, here to share the tail-wagging adventure I had recently. You see, my pawrents surprised me with a wet and wild professional portrait session playing in the water 💦💧

As soon as we arrived at the picturesque pond, I could feel the excitement bubbling up inside me. The air was filled with the scent of fresh grass and the sound of gentle ripples in the water. My tail wagged furiously as I bounded around, taking in the sights and smells of this new and exciting place.

My photographer, Donna, greeted me with a warm smile and lots of ear scritches. She explained that today, we were going to HAVE FUN and capture some truly special moments together in this beautiful spot. I couldn’t wait to get started!

As we headed towards the lake I got to scramble over boulders and tree limbs and show off my posing skills. Then we reached the water where I eagerly dipped my paws into the cool, refreshing water. Donna captured some paw-sitively adorable shots of me splashing around and chasing after my ball. There was something exhilarating about the sensation of the water against my fur, and I couldn’t resist the urge to dive in and paddle around like a champ. My humans laughed and cheered me on as I frolicked in the water, feeling happy and free.

Next, we explored the lush greenery surrounding the pond, pausing to pose for photos amidst the tall grass and wildflowers. With the sun shining down on us, I couldn’t help but feel like a supermodel, striking my best poses for the camera.

But the highlight of the session came when we ventured out onto a rustic wooden dock that stretched out over the water. With the wind in my fur and the sun on my face, I felt like I was on top of the world. The photographer captured some truly breathtaking shots of me gazing out over the shimmering expanse of water and then I GOT TO JUMP IN!!!!! I now have images of my superhero persona flying through the air!

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we knew it was time to wrap up our adventure. But as we made our way back to the car, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the memories we had created together.

So, to all my fellow furry friends out there, I encourage you to beg your mom and dad for a super fun portrait session of your very own. They’ll be glad they did when they see those magical images from your day hanging on the walls of your home.

Framed Artwork from a dog photography session by Donna Kelliher Photography.

Until next time, keep wagging those tails and chasing those dreams!

Woofs and wags

Expect the Unexpected: The World of Dog Photography Bloopers


In the enchanting world of pet photography, where every click of the shutter holds the promise of capturing a cherished memory, there exists a delightful truth: things don’t always go according to plan. Yes, you heard it right—despite our best efforts and meticulous preparations, the unexpected often makes its grand entrance, turning our perfectly orchestrated sessions into a symphony of surprises, bloopers and laughter.

Bloopers of a mixed breed dog with dog photographer Donna Kelliher
Um, you’re supposed to be over there… in front of the camera.
bloopers of a mixed breed dog sticking her tongue out during a pet photography session in Massachusetts with Donna Kelliher
Camera, what camera?
bloopers of a Papillon barking during a session with Donna Kelliher Photography in Boston, MA
I AM SMILING!

Let’s face it—dogs, with their boundless energy, curious antics, and charming quirks, have a way of keeping us on our toes. From impromptu games of keep-away to sudden bursts of zoomies, there’s never a dull moment when our furry family are involved. And while we strive for that elusive “perfect shot,” it’s the bloopers, the outtakes and the candid moments in between that truly steal our hearts.

Doodle standing in front of her doodle sister during their portrait session on Cape Cod with Donna Kelliher Photography. Bloopers
I’m much cuter than my sister. And this is my good side, don’t worry about her 🤣
Silver lab puppy bloopers munching on the flowers during his portrait session with Massachusetts dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography.
Flowers, what flowers?

Perhaps it’s the playful pup who insists on munching on the flowers instead of striking a pose, or the doggie siblings who outdo each other to be the star of the show. Maybe it’s the mischievous glint in their eyes as they chew on your camera strap or the infectious joy that fills the air as they bound across the grass, tongues lolling and tails wagging.


But here’s the thing: in the midst of the chaos and the laughter, there lies a profound beauty—a beauty that transcends perfection and embraces the raw, unfiltered essence of our furry companions. It’s in those unscripted moments, those spontaneous bursts of joy and silliness, that we find true magic.

Bloopers. Newfie puppies during their dog portrait session with Donna Kelliher Photography
I’m the good puppy!

So, let us raise our cameras high and celebrate the delightful moments that make each session unique. Let’s embrace the laughter, the surprises, and the occasional mishaps, knowing it’s these moments that mean so much.

And to our beloved clients, we invite you to join us in celebrating all the fun facets of your dog’s personality. Whether your furry friend decides to chase butterflies instead of posing for the camera or insists on giving the lens a playful lick, rest assured that every moment captured is a treasure—a testament to the unconditional love and boundless joy that our pets bring into our lives.

So here’s to the bloopers, the blunders, and the beautiful messiness of pet photography. May we continue to laugh, to cherish, and to capture the extraordinary magic of life with our beloved companions.

Woofs and wags 🐾

Donna

Check out my Session Guide to see how much fun your pup’s session can be.

Why Your Dog is the Best Valentine 💖🐶💖

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, which means it’s time to start thinking about how you want to spoil your special someone. And no, we’re not talking about your significant other — we’re talking about your furry, four-footed, best friend. See why spending Valentine’s Day with your dog might make it your best Valentine’s Day ever!

a border collie photographed in the studio against a red backdrop by Massachusetts pet photographer Donna Kelliher
Will you be my Valentine? 💘

They’re Always Up For A Date Night

Who needs roses and chocolates when you can spend Valentine’s Day with your pup? Forget those stuffy candlelit dinners – dogs don’t care if you want to stay in and watch a movie, or go out and have some fun. They just want to be with you – no matter what you do!

So why not spend Valentine’s Day doing something special together? If it’s nice outside, take your pup for a hike in the woods or a run on the beach. If the weather isn’t cooperating, curl up on the couch and indulge in some quality cuddle time. Either way, you know your furry valentine will be thrilled with whatever activity (or lack thereof) you choose!

No Dressing up Required

Don’t bother debating over outfits – just spend the evening in your PJs snuggled up with your favorite four-legged friend. Bonus points if your PJ’s match! And even better, you get to choose your favorite shows to watch, no fighting over the remote.

Photograph by Donna Kelliher Photography of two golden retriever dogs celebrating valentine's day with a sweet kiss

Your Dog Will Always be by Your Side

No matter what else is going on in our lives, our dogs are loyal until the very end. And unlike our human partners, our pups will never tire of hearing about our day and will be there to listen whenever we need it. Who else can give so much love in exchange for a few belly rubs?

Gift Shopping is SO Easy

No need to struggle with finding the perfect gift. Your dog will be happy with whatever you choose. A new toy, some yummy treats, a new collar – whatever you choose will make this their BEST DAY EVER! Even better, is a field trip to pick up a few of their favorites. My dogs love visiting the Polkadog shops and The Natural Dog for great, all natural, locally sourced goodies.

And we all know how generous our dogs are, so don’t forget to pick up something awesome for YOU from THEM 🎁.

So this Valentine’s Day, show yourself some extra love by sharing it with (wo)man’s best friend! Who needs chocolates and roses when you have unconditional love and slobbery kisses? So this year, ditch the traditional date night and cuddle up with your bestest dog instead – you won’t regret it!

Happy Valentine’s Day from Believe and I 💖

Celebrating the “Perfectly Imperfect”: A Dog Photographer’s Perspective

Let’s face it, perfection is overrated. And impossible to achieve. Our dogs are so lucky, they don’t lay awake at night brooding over the extra pound they’re carrying or that mom isn’t too happy that they rolled in that slightly smelly thing in the yard. They’ve embraced their perfectly imperfect status 💖

I’ve had the privilege of capturing all kinds of tail-wagging mayhem in my 15+ years as a professional pet photographer. From dogs who will try to convince you that they’ve NEVER heard the word “sit” before to those who’ve mastered the art of zoomies. And guess what? It’s precisely these quirks that make our four-legged friends such rockstars! And why I have the best job in the world!


Real-life Moments, Real-life Love

In my sessions, perfection takes a back seat to authenticity. I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless moments that encapsulate the quirky, wild, and wonderfully imperfect nature of our canine companions. It’s these unique qualities that make each dog a star in their own right.

From the dogs who treat “stay” like a distant relative and others who believe “fetch” is just a fancy game of keep-away. Forget the script – it’s the unscripted chaos that steals the show.

Championing the Unpredictable

A session without unpredictability is like a hotdog without mustard – bland and missing the kick. The goofy expressions, the sudden sprints, and the little bit of naughtiness make for images that aren’t just pictures; they’re a storybook of a canine’s character.

Let’s bark down those stereotypes that say a “perfect” dog fits a certain mold. In my world, every dog is a superstar, whether they’re a drama queen, a goofball, or the class clown.

So many potential clients feel they have to wait until their dog is “better behaved”, or can be off-leash or “calms down”. And none of those are true. Almost none of the dogs I have photographed in my career are obedience stars or even had much training at all. Most of them are “perfectly imperfect” – great dogs who occasionally raid the trash or chew a shoe or run off in the middle of a session after a rabbit 🐰.

photograph of two perfectly imperfect golden retrievers at a park in Rhode Island during a portrait session with dog photographer Donna Kelliher Photography

They’re dogs! They’re expected to act like dogs – be a little (or a LOT) crazy, pull on leash, bark their fool heads off just “because”. I didn’t get into this career to photograph robots (I don’t trust robots, even robot dogs, tell me that “dog” will cuddle with you on the couch… ). Your session will be one of laughter, action and slobbery kisses. So don’t wait to schedule a session for your pet – let’s capture all the chaos that makes you love them so much.

Your Dog is Perfect for the Camera – Just as They Are

To all the awesome pet parents out there, your dog is a star in the making – no auditions required. No need to wait for the stars to align or for your furry friend to become a canine Einstein. So, here’s to celebrating the perfectly imperfect, embracing the mayhem, and capturing the essence of your furry partner in crime. Ready? Let’s turn your furry rockstar into a frame-worthy legend.

dog photography artwork by Massachusetts dog photographer, Donna Kelliher Photography.

Here’s to the tail-wagging, tongue-lolling, laughter-inducing journey of photographing your unapologetically awesome canine buddies. 📸🐶

Donna


Have a reactive or really shy dog? Click here to read a blog on how I design special sessions just for them. Focusing on their comfort and safety at all times.