Some love stories begin with a chance meeting, others with a little help from friends… and then there’s Jackson, the ultimate matchmaker who helped his dad, Sam, find the love of his life. Honestly, can there be a better wingman than a dog?
Jackson and McKinley are so much more than pets—they’re family, best friends, and constant sources of laughter and love. Jackson is a trained therapy dog showing that his heart is just as big as his fluffy paws. And McKinley is a sweet girl with a mischievous side whose penchant for ripping up cardboard is perfect for recycling day.
When we met for their session, it was clear from the start that these four are inseparable. Before the zoomies, the romping, and the beach splashing took over, we made sure to capture a (clean and dry) family portrait to celebrate their bond. The way Jackson and McKinley look to their humans with love and devotion, always in tune with each other, is something truly special.
After those quiet moments, it was time for the craziness to begin. We headed to the surf and sand for some action portraits—ball chasing, splashing, and all the joyful energy these two could muster. There were balls to be chased down, siblings to wrestle with and clear ocean waves to bound through, and these two were ready for it!
This is my ideas of a perfect session – capturing the heartwarming bond between dogs and their families, mixed with the pure excitement and joy they bring to our lives.
Jackson may have been the matchmaker who brought two people together, but now he and McKinley are the true heart of a family full of love, laughter, and joy. It was so much fun capturing their playful energy and special connection. I’m so thankful I got to be part of this moment in their lives.
Wild Heart Sessions: Capture Your Dog’s Spirit of Adventure
You and your dog don’t just take walks—you chase horizons. You seek out winding trails, paddle through glassy waters, and take in epic views side by side. Your best memories aren’t made indoors; they’re forged in the wild, with your best friend by your side.
Wild Heart Sessions are for those who believe adventure is better together. Whether your dog is splashing through a mountain stream, standing proudly atop a rocky peak, or working with unstoppable drive in the field, these sessions capture the soul of your journey—the exhilaration, the connection, the freedom.
Epic Landscapes, Unforgettable Moments
Imagine stepping into your home and seeing your greatest adventures on the walls—your dog in their element, a breathtaking backdrop behind them, frozen in time. Even on the days when life keeps you inside, your photos will remind you of the trails you’ve walked, the rivers you’ve crossed, and the bond that makes it all so special.
Your session is completely customized to reflect your adventure, whether that’s hiking, paddling, or capturing the dedication of a working dog in action.
The Experience
Your Wild Heart Session includes:
A fully personalized 4-hour adventure in your favorite breathtaking location
Travel within 100 miles of Boston (longer distances available)
A stunning piece of artwork—your choice of 30-inch framed wall art OR a premium photo album
Five high-resolution digital files
Introductory Offer – Limited Availability
To celebrate this launch, I’m offering a special introductory discount for the first two adventurers who book:
🔥 First Booking: $995 (Regularly $1,995) 🔥 Second Booking: $1,495 (Regularly $1,995)
These one-of-a-kind sessions are limited in availability due to their custom nature. If your heart races at the thought of immortalizing your adventures with your best friend, now is the time.
Let’s create something unforgettable. Contact me today to book your Wild Heart Session!
Take a quick scroll through your phone. Chances are, you have hundreds—if not thousands—of pictures of your dog. Them snoozing on the couch, playing fetch, or gazing lovingly at you from across the room. But here’s a question: how many photos do you have of you and your dog together?
For most people, the answer is “not many” or even “none.” It’s easy to get caught up in capturing the cuteness of your pup while staying behind the camera yourself. But years from now, you might find yourself longing for images that show not just their personality, but the love and connection you shared.
Capturing the Bond You Share
Your dog isn’t a pet—they’re family. They’re your hiking buddy, your snuggle partner, your reason to smile after a long day. Portraits of just your dog are lovely, but they don’t tell the full story. They don’t capture the way their eyes light up when you laugh, the wag of their tail as you call their name, or how they lean into you during quiet moments.
That’s why your session isn’t just about posed portraits. While classic portraits are timeless and elegant, some of the most meaningful images are those unscripted, candid moments. A game of tug-of-war, a playful romp in the park, or the way they snuggle into you on a lazy afternoon—these are the stories of your relationship, the everyday magic that makes your bond unique.
Feeling Self-Conscious? You’re Not Alone
One of the most common reasons people, especially we women, shy away from being in photos is because they don’t like the way they look. Maybe you’re self-conscious about your hair, your weight, or how you’ll come across in pictures. It’s a vulnerable feeling, and I understand—it’s something so many of us struggle with.
But here’s the thing: when your dog looks at you, they don’t see imperfections—they see their person, their whole world. That’s who we’re capturing in these photos—the way you love and care for your dog, and the way they adore you in return. Trust me when I say that years down the road, you won’t care if your hair was messy or if you weren’t at your goal weight. What you’ll see is the bond you shared, the love in both your eyes, and the story of a moment that can never be recreated.
Why These Photos Matter
As much as we hate to think about it, our dogs aren’t with us forever. Photos are a way to keep their spirit alive in your home, but imagine looking back and not seeing yourself in those memories. Being in the photos makes the memories even more real—it’s not just about them, but about you and them.
Years from now, you’ll be grateful for the pictures that show you both as you truly were: inseparable companions who shared a bond like no other.
Are You Ready to Capture Your Bond?
You and your dog deserve to be celebrated—to see your connection immortalized in stunning, timeless artwork. These photos will serve as a daily reminder of the love, joy, and companionship your dog has brought to your life. It’s not just a portrait session; it’s a celebration of a one-of-a-kind relationship.
Let’s create something beautiful together. A collection of portraits that captures the essence of your dog, the moments you share, and the bond that makes your relationship so extraordinary. You both deserve this, and I’m here to help make it a reality.
Photographing Your Senior Dog: Because “Too Late” Comes Too Soon
We always think we have more time. More walks, more snuggles, more days filled with the familiar sound of paws on the floor. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from photographing dogs for years, it’s this—our time with them is never long enough.
If you have an older dog, you already know—time moves way too fast. One day, they’re full of boundless energy, chasing every squirrel in sight, and the next, they’re slowing down, spending more time curled up next to you, content just to be close. Their gray muzzles and soulful eyes tell the story of a lifetime of love, and while we wish they could stay with us forever, the reality is that our time with them is never long enough.
I can’t tell you how often I hear, “I wish I had done this sooner.” People put off scheduling a session, thinking there will always be another season, another year. And then suddenly, time catches up, and they find themselves wishing for just one more perfect photograph of their best friend.
At 16, Snickerdoodle, rocked his portrait session at the beach!
A Celebration of a Life Well-Loved
Older dogs have a magic all their own. Their wise, soulful eyes, their graying muzzles, the way they move a little slower but love just as fiercely. A session with your senior dog isn’t just about capturing what they look like—it’s about preserving who they are. The way they lean into you, the soft weight of their head on your lap, the moments of puppy-like joy that still shine through.
This isn’t about sadness—it’s about celebration. The life you’ve built together, the adventures you’ve shared, the quiet, unspoken bond that deepens with time.
A 21 year old woman and her 19 year old JRT – they literally have been together her whole life 💖
Don’t Wait for “The Right Time”
One of the biggest hesitations I hear is, “I’ll book a session when…” When they’re feeling better. When the weather is nicer. When life slows down. The truth is, the right time is now. These moments—right here, right now—are the ones you’ll want to remember.
And trust me, you will never regret having these portraits. Whether it’s artwork on your walls, an album you flip through when you miss them most, or just knowing that you did take the time to celebrate them—it matters.
A Gentle, Comfortable Experience
If your senior dog has slowed down, no worries. Older dogs may need a little extra care, and I’m here to make the experience as easy and comfortable as possible for them. Here’s how I ensure their session is relaxed and stress-free:
Priority Scheduling – Because I understand how time-sensitive these sessions can be, senior dogs always get priority on my calendar. I’ll do everything I can to schedule your session as soon as possible.
Gentle, Relaxed Pacing – We go at your dog’s pace, allowing for breaks when needed. If they tire easily, we’ll keep the session short and sweet.
Capturing Their Unique Personality – Whether they still have a spark of puppy energy or they’ve settled into a wise and dignified presence, we’ll highlight what makes them so special to you.
A Lasting Tribute to a Life Well-Loved
Your senior dog has been by your side through so much—offering unconditional love, companionship, and endless joy. A portrait session isn’t just about the photos; it’s about celebrating the incredible bond you share and creating something meaningful to cherish forever.
If you’ve been thinking about a session for your older dog, now is the time. Let’s capture their love, their spirit, and the way they look at you like you’re their whole world—because to them, you are.
So if you’ve been thinking about a session for your beloved Senior Dog, take this as your sign. Let’s capture the love, the life, and the legacy of your incredible dog. Because one day, these images will mean everything. ❤️
So, you’ve booked your dog’s portrait session — yay! I can’t wait to capture their personality, those soulful eyes, and, of course, their adorable quirks. But before we get to the magic, a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your pup looks and feels their best. Here’s how to set yourself (and your dog) up for success.
A Little Exercise Goes a Long Way
If your dog has energy levels that rival a toddler on a sugar high, a bit of pre-session exercise will help. A good walk, some fetch, or a quick play session before we meet can take the edge off—just enough to keep them engaged but not totally wiped out. The goal is “happily relaxed,” not “ready to collapse in the grass five minutes in.” For older or less active dogs, a nice relaxing day before their session, is perfect.
Looking Their Best: A Pre-Session Spa Day
A quick bath and a good brushing a few days before the session can make a world of difference. If they’re due for a grooming, schedule it about a week ahead so they have time to look natural but still fresh.
You would never guess that little Miss Tempo (2nd from the left) had leapt into sticky black muck before our session even started. A quick clean-up to the rescue!
What to Wear: Keep It Simple, Keep It Stylish
Your dog doesn’t need a full wardrobe (unless that’s their thing, in which case, I’m all for it), but a well-fitted, solid-colored collar works best. If we’re doing walking shots, bring a nice leash—think classic leather or a neutral-toned fabric rather than something neon and frayed from puppyhood.
What About You? (Yes, You Should Be in the Photos!)
If you’re planning to be in some portraits (and I highly encourage you to!), opt for neutrals, earth tones or jewel tones as they will complement your dog’s fur beautifully. Layers and textured fabrics will add interest and style to your portraits as well. Simple and timeless always wins over loud patterns or bright colors that can be distracting. Most importantly, wear something you feel great in, because confidence looks amazing on camera.
Pack Like a Pro
Bringing a few essentials will make the session go smoothly: ✔ Water & a Bowl – Staying hydrated is key, especially if it’s warm out. ✔ Plenty of Treats – Small, high-value treats work best. Think tiny bites of cheese, chicken, or their favorite store-bought goodies. ✔ Favorite Toy – Something that gets their tail wagging can help capture their best expressions. Bonus points if it squeaks. ✔ Doggie Wipes – For any last minute clean-ups. ✔ Clean-Up Bags – Because, well… you know.
Relax & Have Fun!
Most importantly, take a deep breath and enjoy the experience. Dogs feed off our energy, so if you’re relaxed and having fun, they will be too. My job is to capture the joy, the connection, and those little moments that make your dog your dog. You just get to enjoy the ride (and the adorable results).
I can’t wait to photograph your pup! If you have any questions or need help choosing the perfect location, just reach out. Let’s create something beautiful together.
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.
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?
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!
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.
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:
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.
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 complimentarypet 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.
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 superstarand createthe perfect artwork to grace your home.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Until next time, keep wagging those tails and chasing those dreams!
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 🐰.
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.
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.
