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!

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 😊

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Best Bonding Moments 🐾❤️

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!

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…

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.

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.

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!

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.

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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

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.

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?

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.

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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

• 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!

• 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.

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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

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?

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!

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.

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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…

which honestly, is every day around here…

It’s so easy to take for granted the gifts that our furry four-legged companions bring into our lives — from their unconditional love to those unforgettable moments of pure joy and fun they share with us. While we all have our endless “to do” lists and responsibilities pulling us in a million different directions, National Love Your Pet Day (which just happens to be today, Feb. 20) is the perfect occasion to go all out to show our pets just how much we treasure them.

This year one of my dogs is approaching the end of his days. My boy, Twister, has seen me through so much through the years, brought me boundless joy and has the absolute biggest heart. And while love can’t stop the inevitable I will make every moment count with my bestest boy. So for this Love Your Pet Day I am giving him a day filled with all the special things I can squish into 24 hours.

So what would your pet like most for Love Your Pet Day? Special treats, an extra long walk, more belly rubs? Let’s get creative and make this an extra-special occasion. I’ve come up with a few ideas for my dogs, so let’s pamper them in style:

• Bake them some special treats (or buy them if you’re not all that great in the kitchen…).
• Check out a new hiking spot.
• Keep them company all day long (a perfect excuse for a day off work in my opinion).
• Take a road trip for a pup cup or a doggie ice cream (don’t forget something for yourself too)
• Hit the beach for a romp with some doggie friends.
• Donate to a shelter or animal charity to help dogs who haven’t found their person yet.
• Take them out to a dog-friendly brewery or restaurant for your celebration.
• Let them choose the show to watch on TV.
• Take them to the pet store to pick out a new toy.
• Extra cuddles!

However you choose to spend today, I hope you and your favorite four-legged family member have an amazing day!

Does your pet have to share you with another human? Check out this blog post by Gretchen Decker with Gretchen Decker Photography, sharing ways to involve your dog in your wedding celebration. https://www.gretchendeckerphotography.com/…/Involvingdo…

1. Make sure to monitor your dog around Christmas trees, Menorahs and other decorations. Puppies, especially, are curious creatures and they love to investigate new things. Many years my Christmas tree was surrounded by an x-pen to keep it upright and the ornaments safe. Thankfully, my dogs have outgrown tree destruction, but be especially careful with your young dog.

2. Keep toxic plants out of reach. Many common holiday plants including holly, mistletoe, poinsettias and lilies can make your pets sick, some seriously. If you’re decorating with these plants, be sure to keep them out of reach of your pet or choose safer alternatives.

3. Don’t leave your dog alone with visiting children, especially if your dog is not used to them. Excited children can unintentionally hurt or scare dogs. If you have young children visiting during the holidays, make sure they know how to approach and interact with dogs safely and supervise closely. And make sure to give your dog breaks in a safe place, like their crate, where no one can bother them.

4. Be careful with holiday food and treats. Dogs are often tempted by tasty holiday foods but many of these can be dangerous for them. Pan drippings, uncooked bread dough, chocolate, raisins, grapes and onions can land your dog in the emergency vet. Who wants that on the holidays? Stick to their regular food and treats instead.

5. Keep an eye on alcohol consumption (no, not on Aunt Minnie’s, well, maybe hers too 🍷🍺🍹). Dogs can be sensitive to alcohol and it can make them very sick (again who wants a sick dog on the holiday 🤮. So be sure to keep alcoholic drinks well out of reach.

6. Make sure to make special time just for you and your dogs. A nice long walk, a run in the park or even just a snuggle on the couch are a perfect holiday tradition 💗

Happy Holidays to all!