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 drabness 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”

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.