Puppy Love: Explore the Most Entertaining Dog Social Media Accounts You Need Right Now!



Winter blues got you down? Fear not! Dive into the heartwarming world of funny, sweet, touching dog social media accounts to add a dose of joy and laughter to your day. These adorable pups are sure to turn even the dreariest winter day into a warm and fuzzy experience.

My Top 5 Dog-loving Instagram Accounts

  1. @_layla_the_boxer: This is a must watch for me. Every one of their reels are hilarious and the quality of these mini-movies is amazing. Layla (boxer) and Luna (her Aussie sidekick/partner-in-crime) are always up to something behind Mom’s back. Whether it’s shopping on Amazon with Mom’s credit card, doing battle with the Elf on the Shelf or competing to see who mom loves best, you will love all of these. And now with the addition of a human “sister”, the girls have an accomplice -in-training
  2. @good.boy.ollie Ollie, is the epitome of a “good boy”. Whether it’s sweetly visiting his “Nanny Biscuits” (you can probably figure out how she got her name) to trying to civilize his “baby raptor” of a brother, you can’t help falling in love with this gentle soul 💖. Check out their month of December Advent Calendar reels for a month of fun and adventure with these two boys
  3. @ladyandtheblues This account follows the sweetest Golden Retriever EVER! When I first started following her, it was just her and mom and dad. But the addition of her human “sister” has taken the cuteness to a whole ‘nother level. As a dog trainer I usually cringe at dog/baby interactions on social media, but this is the most wholesome, beautiful relationship. Check out the matching outfits for a dose of high-fashion for us dog folks 🎀
  4. @grizzly.bane Pair a wise GSD with a goofy Bernese Mountain and hilarity ensues. Picture the wise parent talking to their crazy child (in cute dog form) and you get all the laughs without any of the parenting angst 😁
  5. @whiskeybearthelab All December we watched Dad mix cocktails (alcohol free for Whiskey the Lab of course) with Whiskey “helping” and slyly lecturing Dad about his alcohol intake. Now we’re onto cooking matching meals. These two are just so sweet together. And who knows you may find a great recipe or cocktail idea for yourself too 🍸

As the dark days settle in, let these furry comedians be a source of warmth and cheer. Follow their adventures on Instagram, and let the laughter thaw away the winter blues. Who knew that a simple scroll through a dog’s Instagram feed could bring so much joy?

Does your dog have a social media account? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to follow along on their adventures!

A Pawsitively Perfect Year at Donna Kelliher Photography 🐾

As we bid farewell to another amazing year, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible moments we’ve shared together. From the wagging tails to the slobbery kisses, each session has been so full of joy and laughter and love. I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to capture these special moments with your beloved family members.

📸 A Glimpse Into Our Year

Thank You for Making 2023 Unforgettable!

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for choosing me to photograph your pups this year. Your trust and enthusiasm have made this journey so rewarding. I feel privileged to have been a part of your pet’s story.

🐾 Highlights of 2023:

1: I traveled to NC this spring to attend a pet photographers’ mastermind group. This small group coaching opportunity was thrilling. We talked business and mindset, photographed dogs in Charlotte, NC, ate great food and laughed SO MUCH. And the best part, I became good friends with all of the women there who continue to help me grow this passion-project business that I LOVE.

2: I participated in an intensive 6-month photography course, which challenged me to push outside my comfort zone and explore ways of seeing and shooting which I can wait to add to my repertoire.

3: I’ve been so blessed to collaborate with some amazing partners this year (hello, Alta Clara at the Fells and The Natural Dog). One of my goals this year is to continue to expand my partnerships with other pet-crazy small businesses to help us all shine 🌟✨. If you’re a small business that would like to work together, let’s chat!

Looking Ahead to 2024:

As we step into the new year, I’m excited to create many more memories together! Whether it’s capturing the playful antics of your new puppy, the nobility of your senior, or the unique personality of your furry best friend, I can’t wait to continue capturing your journey.

And stay tuned because I have a couple of REALLY exciting new offerings for 2024. From an exciting new session type for the adventurous people and their pets to a massive fundraising effort I’m going to be launching shortly to benefit a local charity (stay tuned for more info…).

🎉 Thank You Again!

Once again, thank you for making 2023 a paw-some year for Donna Kelliher Photography. Your support means the world to me. I’m thrilled to be part of such an incredible community of pet lovers.

Wishing you and your furry friends an amazing New Year!

Warm regards,

Donna

Donna Kelliher Photography ~ Because YOUR dog isn’t “just” a dog.

Fall in Love with Fall Pet Photography🍁🐶🍂

Senior golden retriever and golden retriever puppy during a fall pet photography session.

While every season has its charm, New England in Fall is truly magical. As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air fills our lungs, there’s no better time to celebrate the extraordinary bond between you and your furry friends. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves mirror the warmth and love that exists between you and your beloved dog. We’ll capture your dog’s joy romping in the falling leaves and the two of you cuddling amidst the autumn beauty.

If these are the heartwarming memories you want to preserve, you’re in the right place. Our pets are our family and the source of endless joy in our lives. My fall pet photography sessions are designed to create stunning artwork that will adorn your home and celebrate the love you share with your dog.

Labrador Retriever photographed in the autumn woods during a fall pet photography session with Donna Kelliher Photography

Why You Should Book a Fall Pet Photography Session 🍁

Unwavering Dedication

Just like the love you have for your dogs, my dedication to capturing their essence is unwavering. Your story is unique, and so is your relationship with your dog. I take the time to understand your bond and create a session that reflects your personalities, ensuring your images are not just photos but pieces of art that speak to your hearts.

Timeless Beauty

The fall season provides a backdrop of breathtaking beauty that perfectly complements your style and decor. With the vibrant foliage and soft, golden light, we’ll capture moments that stand the test of time, allowing you to relive them for years to come.

Simple Process

Your life is super busy and I understand that. I work to make the entire process simple and seamless, from booking to the session to delivery of your final artwork. You can expect an easy and enjoyable experience from start to finish.

Professional Artistry

With over 15 years working exclusively as a dog photographer, I not only capture beautiful images but also transform them into works of art. I believe your pet deserves a place of honor on your wall, just like any other cherished family member.

The Finest Products Available

I offer a wide variety of artwork and albums created by the finest, professional-only labs in the world. I will help you create the perfect display to showcase your pet’s beauty and the love you share in your home.

Artwork from  pet photography session displayed.

This fall, I invite you to invest in an extraordinary experience that celebrates your dogs and the life you’ve built together. It’s a chance to immortalize the companionship, loyalty, and love that fills your home. Limited spots are available, so don’t delay. Secure your session now and let’s capture the beauty of fall together.

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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.

Want more great beach ideas for your dogs from some of the top pet photographers in the country, follow along as Syracuse NY dog photographer Nancy Kieffer shares a recent beach photo session https://nancykiefferphotography.com/Sandy-paw-captures-at…

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